Not everyone lives with a view of the countryside or in a home with a huge yard of lush greenery, shrubs, and colorful flowers. So many suburban and urban dwellers embrace nature by incorporating an atrium, skylight, conservatory, or other feature in their new house plans for an airy, bright space that brings in the outdoors.

With a few design tricks and clicks of the home-design-software mouse, savvy house designers can create floor plans that make smart use of every square foot. This skill enables homeowners to live larger in a smaller house, make day-to-day living more comfortable, and their storage dreams come true. Learn more about these secrets and tricks. -more-

Can you imagine the excitement if Snoopy lived in Charlie Brown’s house? What never happened then is now a reality for many homeowners incorporating their pets in the design of their homes. We look at house plans with spaces for pets, plus helpful ideas to transform your home into a comfortable pet haven.

Designed for a more holistic approach to life, wellness communities are popping up all over the globe. With amenities such as free yoga classes, miles of trails, community gardens, community retail spaces, and entertainment like sports areas and swimming pools, many are asking, "Is this the future of real estate?"

An owners', or master, suite is a personal space that should serve as not only a bedroom but a sanctuary to relax and recharge on weekend mornings or after a long work day. How will you best enjoy the space? Determine how you want to spend your time there, and design accordingly.

We interviewed a number of industry expert architects and contractors to understand more about the current design features that are trending in the home and building industry. Learn more about this subject and other related questions from the experts here!

As cooking becomes a passion rather than a necessity, more people in a family are likely to congregate in the kitchen to try out their culinary skills. How can everyone share a space enjoyably – and peacefully? It may be time to redesign the “hub” of the home to accommodate all of those foodies. As well as those who just like to enjoy the results!

From the Franklin Stove to the modern electric, gas, or traditional wood-burning type, fireplaces add warmth, comfort, and ambiance to the home. As you search for your dream house plan, think of its décor and your lifestyle. Here are several tips to help you choose the fireplace for your home and family.

Will the open floor plan continue to be in demand? Or will more formal spaces be on the horizon? What about farmhouses and exposed beams? With 2018 looming, residential architects and house designers weigh in on the top trends that may be “must-haves” for new and potential homeowners.

Imagine walking amid waterfalls and lakes in Texas ... hosting a ball in the Grand Salon of a Bel Air mansion … savoring fine wine in a Tuscan villa … or enjoying London on the roof terrace of a Regency townhouse. Dreams can come true. But there are intriguing simple pleasures within your reach.