Choosing the perfect house plan is one of the most exciting—and important—steps in the home-building journey. But what if you’re not sure what to look for in a house plan? With thousands of floor plans available online, you’ll have to put some effort into finding the perfect one. At Direct From The Designers, we’re here to help simplify the process and guide you toward the home that fits your lifestyle, budget, and future goals.
Whether you’re a first-time builder or a seasoned homeowner, here are the top features to consider when selecting a house plan.
1. Prioritize the Right Layout, Not Just Square Footage
Many buyers start by looking at the total square footage—but layout matters just as much, if not more. A well-designed 1,800-squre-foot home can feel more spacious and functional than a 2,500-square-foot home that is not optimized for your needs.
- Do you want an open floor plan with connected kitchen, dining, and living spaces?
- Would a split-bedroom layout offer more privacy for your family?
- Is a single-story or two-story home more practical for your needs?
At Direct From The Designers, we make it easy to filter plans by layout features like open-concept design, split bedrooms, number of levels, and more.
2. Think About Bedroom and Bathroom Placement
How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you truly need now—and in the future? A growing family might need 3–4 bedrooms, while downsizers may prioritize a spacious primary suite and guest room. Also consider direct or hallway bathroom access!
- Do you want an ensuite for every bedroom?
- Will a Jack-and-Jill bath help streamline morning routines?
- Is a half bath near the main living area important for guests?
We offer thousands of house plans with customizable options to match your family structure and daily lifestyle.
3. Don’t Forget About Outdoor Living
If you’re building in a scenic or warm-weather location, outdoor living space can dramatically improve how your home feels and functions. Covered porches, grilling patios, decks, and even screened sunrooms are among the most requested features at Direct From The Designers.
Pro Tip: Filter our plans by “Outdoor Living” to find designs with built-in options for year-round enjoyment.
4. Pay Attention to Garage Location and Storage Needs
A 2- or 3-car garage may be non-negotiable for many families—but it’s not just about car space. Today’s homeowners use garages to increase household storage and add practical workshop, gym, and other spaces. Our plans include front-entry garages for standard neighborhood lots, side-load garages for better curb appeal, and even rear garages for alley access. Look at the garage from both sides to find the right fit.
Looking for extra flexibility? Many of our plans also include walk-in pantries, bonus rooms, and attic storage options—just check the plan specs or contact our team for guidance.
5. Consider Curb Appeal and Architectural Style
A home should feel like “you”—and that starts with the exterior. From modern farmhouse to Craftsman, coastal to mountain, our collection at Direct From The Designers includes a wide range of architectural styles to match every taste.
You can even search our curated plan collections for:
- Narrow lot homes
- Sloped lot homes
- Vacation cottages
- Luxury estates
- Affordable starter homes
We work with top residential architects to bring you only the most functional and beautiful designs.
Need Help Choosing the Right House Plan?
The perfect house plan starts with asking the right questions—and having expert support along the way. At Direct From The Designers, our House Plan Advisors are here to help you compare options, make modifications, and find a plan that aligns with your goals and timeline.
Let’s Find Your Dream Home
Ready to start building with confidence now that you know what to look for in a house plan? Browse our best-selling house plans, or reach out to our team for personalized recommendations. Whether you need a compact vacation home or a family-friendly forever home, Direct From The Designers is your trusted source for architect-designed plans and expert support every step of the way.
Need assistance? Just call 877-895-5299, email, or Live Chat with one of our friendly House Plan Advisors today!