Dream House Plans & Designs of the Week

The home plans in this collection have been published in newspapers across the country as part of a special House of the Week feature. Consider these the best of the best – they’ve all been hand-picked. You’ll find a wide range of styles and sizes here, from modest Craftsman bungalows to sleek modern farmhouses and more. Looking for a tiny home that will be affordable to build? How about a spacious one-story home that can transition nicely into an elegant empty nest later? It’s all here.

While styles and sizes vary, these home do share some features in common. First and foremost, open layouts take center stage. That means that the kitchen looks out to another room, whether that’s a family room (often called a great room when it’s larger) or an open dining space.

Cooking has become an important way of entertaining and relaxing, so today’s modern kitchens include plenty of space for prepping food and hanging out. Islands typically hold room for at least a few bar stools for your guests to sit and sip a glass of wine while you put the finishing touches on dinner.

Other contemporary amenities include master suites located on the main floor (making it easier to get around and to age in place), plenty of storage (like walk-in closets and pantries), and spa-like master bathrooms with big showers and double sinks.

No matter where you’re building, you’ll find the right style here. Texans will appreciate the designs that emphasize outdoor living and big views. If you’re located in a colder climate, check out the layouts that feature screened porches with fireplaces for year-round use.

Perhaps you simply want an affordable ranch home. You’ll find many designs that fit the bill. How about house plans with country curb appeal? Just look for the charming front porches.

Related categories include: Editors' Picks House Plans, Best Selling House Plans, and Contemporary-Modern House Plans.