Best Southern Style House Plans

Southern style house plans evoke a sense of warmth, hospitality, and timeless elegance. They are known for their distinctive architectural features, including wrap-around porches, grand columns, and spacious interiors. These elements create a welcoming atmosphere and seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living spaces. Whether you're looking to build a sprawling mansion or a charming cottage, Southern style architecture offers a variety of options to suit diverse tastes and lifestyles.

Key Features of Southern Style House Plans

Southern style house plans are characterized by a number of defining features that contribute to their distinctive aesthetic. These include:

Wrap-around porches: These iconic elements provide ample space for relaxing, dining, and socializing while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views. They are often adorned with intricate details, such as decorative railings and columns.
Grand columns: Tall, elegant columns supporting the porch or entryway are a hallmark of Southern architecture. They add a sense of grandeur and scale to the home, visually connecting the exterior to the interior.
Asymmetrical layouts: Southern style homes often feature asymmetrical layouts, creating a sense of casual elegance and visual interest. This design approach allows for varied room sizes and shapes, adding to the home's overall charm.
High ceilings: Southern homes traditionally boast high ceilings, creating a sense of airiness and spaciousness. These ceilings often feature intricate moldings and crown detail, adding to the overall grandeur and refinement.
Decorative details: From intricate window treatments to hand-crafted trim work, Southern style homes are known for their attention to detail. These decorative elements contribute to the homes' timeless beauty and unique personality.

Styles of Southern Style House Plans

Southern style house plans encompass a wide range of architectural styles, each with its own unique character and appeal:

1. Colonial Revival:

Colonial Revival homes are characterized by their symmetrical facades, gabled roofs, and simple yet elegant details. They often feature two or three stories, with a central entrance and a formal dining room. These homes exude a sense of tradition and sophistication, making them popular for families looking for a timeless style.

2. Plantation Style:

Plantation style homes are known for their sprawling layouts, large columns, and expansive porches. They often feature a central hall with multiple bedrooms and living spaces, reflecting the grandeur of Southern plantations. These homes are ideal for those who desire ample space for entertaining and comfortable living.

3. Craftsman:

Craftsman homes, though not strictly Southern, have gained popularity in the region due to their focus on natural materials and handcrafted details. They often feature low-pitched roofs, exposed beams, and built-in furniture. These homes are known for their warm, inviting atmosphere and their emphasis on practicality and functionality.

4. Victorian:

Victorian style homes are characterized by their elaborate ornamentation, intricate details, and asymmetrical layouts. They often feature gingerbread trim, stained glass windows, and decorative towers. These homes offer a whimsical and romantic aesthetic, appealing to those who appreciate intricate design and historical charm.

Choosing the Right Southern Style House Plan

When selecting a Southern style house plan, several factors should be considered to ensure that the chosen design meets your specific needs and preferences. These include:

Budget: Southern style homes can range widely in cost depending on their size, materials, and architectural details. Determine a realistic budget before exploring different plans.
Lifestyle: Consider your family's needs, entertainment habits, and desired level of formality when selecting a design. A large family might prefer a sprawling layout with ample bedrooms, while a couple might opt for a more intimate design with a focus on entertaining spaces.
Lot size and shape: The size and layout of your lot will influence the types of floor plans that are suitable. Consider the orientation of the lot, access to natural light, and the desired placement of exterior features like porches and gardens.
Local building codes: Ensure that your chosen house plan complies with local building codes and permits. Seek advice from an architect or builder to navigate any specific regulations.

By carefully considering these factors and working closely with an experienced architect or builder, you can find the perfect Southern style house plan to create a welcoming and stylish home that reflects your individual preferences and lifestyle.