50
Hong Kong Builder
C
DING R
BED RM
10 x 10
GARAGE
✪
7 к юка
D
LIVING RM
18x13
BED RM
10 x 13
A compact one-story plan is most economical for the 5-room house. D. Swope, designer
The 1-story plan is usually less economical than a full 2-story design. Mayfair Acres, N.Y.
A one-story house may often be slipped in between existing trees. D. D. McMurray, architect
1-STORY OR 2-STORY HOUSES?
To decide which type of plan will best fit your needs, check the points below which apply to your case. Then add up the pros and cons.
Which will cost less to build?
If you want a house of less than six rooms, a one- story plan will cost less and look better than a two-story one. For a house with more than six rooms, the extra costs in foundations and roofing in a one-story design will usually outweigh the saving on stairs.
If you live in anything but a very mild climate, the larger outside wall and roof areas in a one-story house will increase the costs of maintenance, heating and insulation beyond those of a two-story house of similar size. Remember that heat can more easily be distributed vertically than horizontally.
If you are building on the side of a hill, two stories on the downhill side and one on the uphill side is most economical and practical. But the 12-story house with attic bedroom is usually the least economical type of plan. 6 rooms on two stories are usually cheaper and better than 6 rooms on 1% stories,
Does the site make a difference?
If you have only a small lot, don't fill it full with a large one-story house. Many of the rooms will be look- ing into your neighbors' backyards, and there will be no space left for a garden.
If you have a medium-sized lot, a courtyard garden surrounded by a one-story house will give more privacy than an open lawn. But if there are two-story houses on each side, a roof deck on a two-story house will be less easily overlooked.
If the site is rocky or steeply sloping, a two-story house will economize on the cost of grading.
If all your view is on one side, then pile up as many floors and as much window space as you can afford on that side. Build vertically. And if your view from ground level is blocked by houses or bushes, then choose a two-story house with upstairs living room.
If there are trees, wind a single-story house among their trunks.
If there is only one good view it may be better to build vertically.
R. J. Neutra, architect
Right: You can walk straight out into the garden
or on to the beach without going through the house. Sea Island. Ga.