Modernizing a split-level home can be achieved with a few simple updates. First, you should focus on updating the exterior of the home with modern siding, exterior lighting, and landscaping features.
Next, you can look to update the interior of the home by painting walls and ceilings, installing modern fixtures, and incorporating updated furniture and decor. You may also want to consider reconfiguring or remodeling the split-level design of the home to create a more open or efficient flow of living spaces.
Other ideas for modernizing the interior include installing larger windows to let in more natural light, including large or double doors, or using energy efficient heating and cooling systems. Finally, consider incorporating sustainable features in your home such as energy-efficient appliances or solar panels for long-term savings and efficiency.
Can you convert a split-level home?
Yes, you can convert a split-level home. The process of converting a split-level home is a big project and involves several steps, but with the right plan and expertise, it’s entirely possible. First, you’ll need to assess the existing structure of your split-level home and decide on a design that makes sense for you.
Consider any accessibility features you may want to add in during the renovation. You may want to open up the staircase to create a more open concept, or make the main floor more accessible for those with mobility needs.
Make sure to include other features like new windows and doors, new floors, and expanded electrical needs in your plans.
Once your plans are in place, the next step is to carry out the conversion. You will need to consider factors such as demolition, framing, insulation, and drywall installation to help bring your vision to life.
This can be a time consuming and labor intensive project, but it can be made easier by enlisting the assistance of a contractor or builder with experience in renovating split-level homes.
Once the project is completed, you’ll enjoy the benefits of having a newly designed space that suits your needs. From improved functionality to an increase in the value of your property, it’s worth the effort of converting a split-level home.
Are split level homes outdated?
No, split-level homes are not necessarily outdated. Split-level homes can easily be redesigned to meet today’s modern standards. They feature an abundance of natural light and additional living space, making them ideal for multi-generational families.
Modernizing and transforming a split-level home can include things like adding a new two-story entryway, updating the entire house with new finishes and fixtures, replacing the roof, and reconfiguring the yard and landscaping.
Additionally, these homes can also be renovated to create an open concept main level with a contemporary kitchen and living area. Updating a split-level home can be a great way to bring it into the modern age while preserving the strong bones and structure of the home.
Why do people not like split level houses?
Split level houses have become less popular in recent years, primarily due to the fact that they can be impractical to live in. Since they are usually composed of two or three levels, they have divided living areas with lots of uneven steps.
This means that children and older people in particular can struggle to get around the household easily. Additionally, it can be difficult to move furniture in and out of the home.
Split levels also can give an unwelcoming feeling to guests, due to the maze-like structure of the home. From the entryway, guests can feel confused as to which rooms are used for what purpose, as the multiple levels make it hard to find the living room or kitchen.
Many people end up feeling disoriented in a split level home.
Due to the unique design of split levels, they also tend to be more expensive to repair and remodel. The split levels require more materials, so renovating them to modernize the look can be much costlier than for a single-level house.
Overall, split level homes are becoming increasingly less popular due to the practical and aesthetic issues they present. The design can be inconvenient and uninviting, while renovations to the home can be more expensive.
What are the disadvantages of split level houses?
Split level houses have some disadvantages that potential homeowners should consider carefully before making a purchase. One of the drawbacks is that they are difficult to rearrange. Unlike a traditional two-story house with two floors, split level homes usually consist of different levels arranged in a staircase shape, making it difficult to move room locations or redesign the house’s interior layout.
Another possible disadvantage is the uneven heating and cooling. Because the levels are at different heights and the basement area is typically lower, the home’s HVAC system can struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature.
This can result in cold or hot spots throughout the home and increased energy bills.
Interior design can also be a challenge in a split level home. It’s difficult to create visual continuity throughout the house when the staircase divides the space. As well, the tall ceilings in the main living area can be tricky to furnish, as standard furniture may not be tall enough to fill out the space.
Finally, depending on the style of the home and the zoning restrictions in the neighbourhood, the exterior of split-level houses can be difficult to modify or update. The unique style generally works best tucked into the background, which can make it difficult to add porches, decks, awnings or make other adjustments that can give a home more curb appeal.
When did split level homes become popular?
Split level homes began to become popular in the 1950s and 1960s, as Americans were starting to move away from more traditional styles of architecture and design. Split level homes offered multi-level functionality, energy efficiency, and customizable layouts, allowing for more flexible use of space.
With the cost of construction materials also decreasing during this time, the affordability of split level homes further contributed to their increasing popularity. By the 1960s, split level homes were becoming commonplace, having earned the reputation of being a practical and somewhat stylish solution for families seeking to be close to the town center.
In the years since, split level homes have gone in and out of fashion, but they still remain a popular choice for those looking for a modern home with a unique layout.
Is the lower level of a split level considered a basement?
No, the lower level of a split level is not considered a basement. The term ‘split level’ and ‘split foyer’ refer to one-and-a-half story homes in which a portion of the main floor is partially below grade.
This level typically has a separate entrance, with direct access to the lower level, usually without stairs. Although both the upper and lower levels are partially below grade, the lower level does not have enough height to be considered a basement.
Basements typically have seven or eight feet of overhead clearance for ceilings, while a split level may only have four or five feet of overhead clearance.
Is a raised ranch considered 2 stories?
A raised ranch is typically considered a single story, however, in some cases, it can be considered a two-story home. Raised ranches feature a two-level design, with the main living area typically located on the upper floor and the lower level below ground.
The bottom level typically includes finished living space, a laundry room, and a garage. This design gives the home a two-story appearance and can be seen from the exterior. The upper level may have bedrooms and other living areas, making it appear to be two stories tall.
Whether a raised ranch is considered a one-story or a two-story home ultimately depends on the specific design of the house. In some cases, a local building code may dictate what is considered a one-story or two-story home.
What is considered below grade square footage?
Below grade square footage (also known as unheated or unfinished space) is any finished space that is located below ground level. This includes basements, garages, or any other unfinished spaces. Below grade square footage is not usually counted when calculating total square footage of a home, since these spaces are not typically considered part of the livable space.
As such, they are not included in calculating the overall value of a home when it comes to appraisals or other home assessments.
How do you make an old house look modern outside?
Making an old house look modern outside can be a relatively easy process. The first step is to start with a thorough exterior clean, utilizing a power washer where available. This will remove any dirt and grime, bringing back the true look of the existing surfaces.
Following the clean, additional steps include painting, replacing old moldings, replacing any dated hardware, updating window boxes, and refreshing landscaping. It is important to be mindful of the existing architecture and ensure that any changes complement the existing aesthetic.
Painting is a great way to instantly modernize the look of an old house. Consider painting the front door a bold color, as well as any shutters or window trim. Painting the house itself is generally an expensive and time-consuming endeavor, but can drastically freshen up the look of your house.
Additionally, explore other options like vinyl siding or stone to introduce new textures and colors.
Replacing any old moldings including the house trim and shutters can give the exterior a facelift without having to completely redo the house. Consider a modern color scheme such as white, greys, or even pastels for a fresh look.
Additionally, replacing older dated hardware such as light fixtures, door handles, and address plaques can add to the modernized look. Even if you are not replacing the entire light fixtures, look at replacing the shades and bulbs for a much brighter look compared to traditional yellow hued bulbs.
Adding window boxes to the house can also modernize your house while adding a burst of color. Planting flowers in the window boxes that are seasonally appropriate will give your house a new look throughout the year.
Finally, updating the landscaping is the perfect way to truly transform the look of your house. Focus on low-maintenance plants and perennials and utilize lightweight pots with modern colors and designs to bring out the focus colors of your home.
Together, all of these considerations can help make an old house look modern and updated.
How do I modernize the outside of my house?
Modernizing the outside of your house can be done in a variety of ways. One way is to paint the exterior walls with a fresh, modern color. If painting isn’t an option, you can also add modern architectural elements such as shutters, windows, and doors.
Additionally, you can trade out existing fixtures such as porch lights, house numbers, and door handles with modern, updated ones. Think metallic, geometric shapes, and minimalist styles. Installing a modern fence can also do wonders for the overall look and feel of your home.
You can choose from a variety of materials such as wood, metal, stone, or concrete. Another easy way to modernize the outside of your house is to pressure wash the siding and sidewalks to remove any dirt and grime.
Lastly, adding a few plants, trees, and landscaping features can also add a touch of modern design to the outside of your house.
How can I make the exterior of my house look expensive?
One way to make the exterior of your house look expensive is to focus on the details. Look to see if any of the following projects can boost the curb appeal of your home:
1. Invest in a quality paint job. Repainting your house with a quality finish and durable paint will give it an expensive look. Consider using a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish, as it will reflect more light, making your home seem more luxurious.
2. Add extra dimension. Painting various elements of your home different shades of the same color can add a dramatic effect, making it look more luxurious. For example, you could paint the trim a lighter shade of the base color or do an ombre effect on the shutters.
3. Upgrade your landscaping. Upgrading your landscaping with quality plants, trees, and shrubs can add value and make your property look expensive. Add some accent pieces, such as statues and birdbaths, to give the space some visual interest.
4. Install a new roof. Installing a new roof is a great way to make your home look more expensive. Choose a high-quality, durable material such as slate or metal to give your home an expensive look.
5. Add outdoor lighting. Investing in outdoor lighting fixtures is another great way to make your home look more expensive. Choose fixtures that complement the architecture of your home, and install them at key focal points, such as around the patio or deck.
By investing in quality materials and taking some time to focus on the details, you can make the exterior of your house look expensive.
How do I change my home exterior on a budget?
Changing your home exterior on a budget can require some creative thinking. Firstly, focus on updates that don’t require major remodels, such as new plantings, attractive window treatments and paint.
A fresh coat of paint is a great way to dramatically change the look of your home on a budget. You can also replace doorknobs, light fixtures, address numbers and mailboxes for an updated look. Adding window boxes, a new porch railing, a decorative shutters, or a new door can make an inexpensive but dramatic change to your home’s exterior.
Consider using inexpensive materials like vinyl for a cost-effective update. Another way to spruce up the exterior of your home on a budget is to rearrange outdoor furniture and accessories. Investing in a pressure washer can help make even the dirtiest patios and decks look almost as good as new.
How can I make my flat front house look better?
Adding curb appeal to your flat front house can make a world of difference in how it looks. The first thing that you should do is to make sure that any gardens, landscapes, and lawns are well-kept and properly maintained.
If you don’t already have any gardens or landscaping, adding some to the property can help to add a bit of personality and charm. Additionally, consider adding some architectural details, such as trellises, planters, and window boxes.
Some flowers, plants, and shrubs can also help to add color and life to the property. Next, look for ways to add interesting details to your home’s exterior. This can include replacing or painting the front door, adding a new garage door, or even installing a new window.
Another great idea is to add accessories to the area, such as flags, wind chimes, and bird baths. Finally, consider changing up the lighting on your home’s exterior. Progress lighting fixtures and solar powered lanterns can both help to add charm and whimsy to your home.
With some creativity and effort, you can easily create curb appeal that will make your flat front house look better and more attractive.
How do you put curb appeal on a brick house?
Adding curb appeal to a brick house can be done in a few different ways. With brick, a great place to start is to declutter and make sure the landscaping is well-maintained. Adding plant containers or window boxes can quickly add color and life to a brick home and really tie the look together.
Additionally, adding an outdoor living space can give an entirely new look. A porch or patio can be constructed with brightly-colored furniture, accent pieces, and flowers. Adding new lights or fixtures to the front of the house can draw attention to the entrance and make it feel more inviting.
If you have a noticeably dark area on the house, consider painting the door or post a bright color to contrast. Finally, adding a bit of extra trim or paneling to the exterior can completely modernize a brick house and give it a classic, timeless look.