Ah, the classic home design debate: do you build wide and open on one floor, or do you reach for the sky with multiple stories? At Andries Builders, we know that choosing between a single-story and a multi-story home isn’t just about looks—it’s about how you live, move, and grow in your home. Let’s dive into some key considerations in this week’s article.

Space & Layout

  • Single-Story: Everything’s conveniently on one level. It creates an open, flowing vibe that feels easy and accessible. Great for families who want to keep all the action on the same floor.
  • Multi-Story: More natural separation of space. Think: kids’ chaos upstairs, parents’ calm downstairs. Or flip it! Multiple floors let you design distinct zones for living, working, and sleeping.

Cost & Footprint

  • Single-Story: Since it spreads out, you’ll use more land and pay for extra foundation and roofing. On the plus side, heating and cooling can be more efficient since air moves evenly.
  • Multi-Story: Less land, more house! Building upward means you save on the foundation and roof per square foot, though you’ll trade that for a stair workout (bonus: who needs a treadmill?).

Accessibility & Lifestyle

  • Single-Story: Perfect if you want to avoid stairs—whether you’re carrying laundry, chasing toddlers, or thinking ahead to retirement. It’s safer, easier, and more future-friendly.
  • Multi-Story: Privacy galore! Multi-level living means you don’t have to bump into everyone all the time. It also gives kids, teens, or guests their own space to retreat.

Outdoor Living

  • Single-Story: Usually takes up more of the lot, leaving less backyard. But! It often creates seamless indoor-outdoor flow—patios, pools, and BBQs feel like extensions of the house.
  • Multi-Story: Building up leaves more yard space. That means bigger gardens, play areas, or maybe even that dreamy backyard retreat you’ve pinned on Pinterest 100 times.

Resale Value

  • Single-Story: Popular with families with small children, retirees, or anyone who’s stair-averse. In some markets, these homes sell like hotcakes.
  • Multi-Story: A big hit in areas where land is tight and vertical living is the norm. Buyers often love the grand feel and extra square footage without sacrificing yard space.

Views & Natural Light

  • Single-Story: Windows and light spread evenly, but you’re limited to ground-level views. Perfect if you love gardens or watching the kids play outside.
  • Multi-Story: Upper floors bring in more sunlight and better views. Imagine sipping your morning coffee on a second-floor balcony while catching the sunrise. Not too shabby.

Noise & Privacy

  • Single-Story: Quieter in the sense that sound doesn’t travel between floors. But with everyone on one level, noise can feel closer.
  • Multi-Story: Floors create built-in sound buffers. Parents can sleep while teenagers blast music upstairs (well… mostly).

You Decide Your Own Story

✨ At Andries Builders, we believe your dream home should reflect the way you live. Whether you’re drawn to the easy flow of a single-story ranch or the grandeur and space of a multi-story design, we’ll guide you through the process and craft a home that’s perfectly yours.