Choosing between one or two-story homes (2024)

Deciding on the type of home you want can be a challenge. Depending on where you live, your budget and your needs, the home you end up with has to fit within your criteria. Even if you need help deciding what home style to consider, there are a few things to remember.

In this post, we explore a topic many homeowners face when deciding the kind of home they want to buy or build. Should you go for a one-story or a two-story house? Each choice has its own unique set of advantages, challenges and design opportunities. Let's take a look.

The appeal of one-story homes

One-story homes, often called ranch-style or bungalows, come with unique allure. They are streamlined, accessible and easy to maintain. Their key characteristics make them popular among various demographics, from young families to retirees.

1. Simplicity: One-story homes typically feature an uncomplicated layout with all rooms on the same level. This simplicity makes navigation easy.
2. Accessibility: One of the main advantages of one-story homes is their accessibility. With no stairs to navigate, they're ideal for people with mobility issues, families with young children, or seniors who prefer to avoid stairs.
3. Easy maintenance: Since there's no second story, cleaning gutters, painting, or repairing roofs is easier and more cost-effective.
4. Open-plan living: Many one-story homes feature open-plan living, dining and kitchen spaces. This design promotes a sense of spaciousness and fosters a more social environment.
5. Outdoor connection: Single-story homes often have a strong connection with outdoor spaces. Patios, decks and gardens are easily accessed from multiple points within the house.

Different styles of single-story homes

One-story homes come in various styles, catering to different aesthetic preferences:

• Ranch-style homes: Originating in the U.S., ranch homes are known for extended, low-to-the-ground profiles and open layouts. They often feature attached garages and emphasize easy indoor-outdoor living.
• Bungalows: Bungalows, often characterized by compact designs and verandas, originated from South Asia but have gained popularity worldwide. They often feature overhanging eaves, a sloping roof and a front porch.
• Cottages: Traditionally small and cozy, cottages often feature steep rooflines and a rustic aesthetic. They can be single-story or one-and-a-half stories, with the half-story typically used for loft space.
• Modernist one-story homes: These homes embrace minimalism, featuring clean lines, open layouts, and large windows for plenty of natural light. They often incorporate innovative materials and technologies.

The popularity of one-story homes lies in their blend of functionality, accessibility and varied design aesthetics. Whether you prefer the traditional charm of a bungalow or the sleek lines of a modernist home, there's a one-story home style to suit everyone's taste.

The downsides of single-story homes

However, one-story homes do have their limitations that might impact your choice.

Space limitations: With only one floor to work with, you might find it challenging to create private areas without compromising open spaces.

Land use: One-story homes generally require a larger footprint, which means you'll need more land compared to a two-story home of the same square footage.

Less privacy: As one-story homes are on the street level, you are more exposed to people passing by, meaning they are able to see inside your home. The same goes for nosy neighbors or delivery people.

Higher security risk: In a one-story home, all the doors and windows are on the same level. This means there are more openings that can make it easier for someone to break into your home.

Two-story homes: a classic choice

Two-story homes have a certain grandeur and elegance that captures the imagination. They offer more living space without increasing the house's footprint, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. Here's why they can be an excellent option:

1. More space: One of the most significant advantages of two-story homes is the efficient use of space. By building upwards, you can have more living space on a smaller plot of land.
2. Privacy: A two-story home provides a clear separation between public and private spaces. The ground floor can be dedicated to social areas like the kitchen, living room and dining room, while the upper floor can house bedrooms and bathrooms, offering a quiet retreat.
3. More design options: With two floors, you have more walls and spaces to decorate. You also have staircases and hallways to play with, making sure the whole home reflects your style. This opens up endless possibilities for interior design and personal expression.
4. Views: Two-story homes often provide better views, which can be attractive if your property overlooks a scenic landscape.
5. Security: A two-story home offers greater security and a lower risk of break-ins as your windows and exterior doors are not all on one level.

Different styles of two-story homes

Two-story homes come in a wide variety of architectural styles and offer more stylistic design options.

• Colonial: These homes are characterized by symmetry with a centered front door, an equal number of windows on either side and typically, bedrooms on the second floor.
• Victorian: Victorian homes have more intricate designs and often have multiple stories, steep roof pitches and old-school charm.
• Modern two-story: These homes feature clean lines, large windows, and open floor plans. The emphasis is on simplicity and indoor-outdoor living.
• Tudor: These homes are known for their distinctive half-timbering and steeply pitched roofs. They often have tall, narrow windows and large chimneys.
• Farmhouse: These homes combine functionality with comfort. They often feature large porches and simple rectangular layouts and are predominantly two stories.

The downsides of two-story homes

Two-story homes come with challenges that can make them less-than-ideal options for many.

Accessibility: Stairs can be challenging for families with young children, older adults, or anyone with mobility issues.

Maintenance: More space means more maintenance and longer cleaning time. Also, window cleaning or roof repairs can be more complex and expensive.

Less energy efficient: Heating and cooling your two-story home is more expensive than a one-story home. If your heater and air conditioner are on the lower floors, it takes more energy to heat/cool other areas of the home.

Conclusion

So, which is better the better choice - a one-story or two-story home? The answer depends on your lifestyle, needs and preferences. Where you live might also influence your options. If the area you live in has mostly one-story homes, it might be difficult to find a two-story home. This can also work the other way around.

If you value accessibility, simplicity and ease of maintenance, a one-story home could be the perfect fit for you. One-story homes come in a variety of designs and layouts, so you'll be able to find one that suits your style.

Two-story homes are great if you crave more space and desire a clear separation of spaces. If you're not deterred by the prospect of extra maintenance, a two-story home may be the way to go.

Remember, both options present unique design opportunities. It's all about creatively using and personalizing the space to suit your style and needs.

Here's to finding your dream home, and remember, whether it's one story or two, the most important thing is that it feels like home to you. Happy house hunting!