Small Simple House Designs & Plans

¶ Plain and unpretending as the exterior of this design may appear, it is nevertheless possessed of considerable merit as a comfortable and convenient house.

Simple House

¶ A mistake in the picture, representing a very meager projection on the roof of the rear building, detracts from the appearance of the design as represented, but was not observed in time for correction. The main roof projects 2i feet, and the roof just referred to ought to project at least 20 inches or 2 feet. A light iron veranda over the bay window, approached from the bedroom P by lengthened windows, would materially benefit the expression of the edifice as a whole. The front veranda roof might be surrounded with a balustrade of plain design; the adoption of which would lead to an increase of dimensions in the veranda posts.

Interior Plans

¶ By the inspection of the plan of the principal floor, picture 71, it will be perceived that the dining room B, 22 by 16 feet, is the largest room on this floor.

Interior Plans

¶ D is a passage 6 feet wide, leading from the front entrance N to the staircase hall, and communicating with the sitting-room C as well as the dining room B and parlor A. The parlor is 15 by 20 feet, with an octagonal bay window, and the sitting-room is by 12 feet. A little piazza M shelters the side entrance to the staircase hall. Passing on to the rear, we find E a pantry, and G the kitchen, 15 by 14 feet, with a closet I attached. H is a wash-house, 17 by 10 feet, with a rear entrance. The object of the small rooms L and K is apparent: a deep well should be sunk, or an inclined sewer constructed beneath them. 0, P, and Q denote the three best bedrooms on the second floor, picture 72. H, entered from the half-pace of the stairs, is also a good bedroom.

Room Plan

Building Plans

¶ Nothing would be more suitable for the walls of this design than brick and stucco. The roof deserves to be covered with slate, but, to keep down the cost, shingles may be substituted. The window-heads should be stone, and the verandas of wood; the latter, as well as the main cornice, painted and sanded.

Affordable Cost

¶ Erected in the vicinity of Philadelphia, this house will cost in the neighborhood of $7000 (1861 price).

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