Split-level and split foyer homes have very similar layouts, but there are some important distinctions between them. Split-level homes are recognized for their staggered floors and often include three distinct levels.
The lower level usually contains a partially or fully finished basement with one or two bedrooms, a full bath, and a family room. The main living level is usually one step above the lower level and often includes the living room, dining room, kitchen, and usually one or two bedrooms.
The top level typically holds two or three bedrooms.
Split foyer homes also have three distinct levels, however the design is not as staggered as a split-level home. The lower level is typically completely finished and houses the family room, one or two bedrooms, a full bath, and sometimes the kitchen.
The upper level generally includes the living room, dining room, kitchen, and two or three bedrooms. This layout is still favored by many buyers, due to the convenience of having all of the living spaces on one level.
What is a split entrance?
A split entrance is a home that has two or more entrances, typically with a main entrance located such that it is visible from the street, and an auxiliary entrance located at the side or the back of the property.
In the past, these entrance layouts were more common in rural areas and are still found in some residential neighborhoods, but they have become increasingly rare.
Split entrances represent an efficient design choice when more than one family lives in the home and each family needs separate access. Sometimes, the primary entrance is used by the head of the household, while the other is typically used by extended family and visitors.
This arrangement is also practical for private homes that are used as rental properties because each tenant can maintain a separate entrance.
Additionally, the presence of a split entrance in a home can be a desirable aesthetic feature for some potential buyers. As the needs of homeowners change, architecture trends also change, and curved walkways, classical columns, elegant gated entrances, and surrounding landscaping can enhance the appearance of the property.
Does a split foyer have a basement?
Yes, a split foyer does have a basement. A split-foyer home has a main level, as well as an upper level and basement. The stairs that lead to the upper level are usually located just inside the front door.
This upper level is often used as a living area, with the bedrooms located on the lower level. The basement of a split-foyer home is usually partially below ground, and houses such items as the furnace, laundry area, sometimes a bedroom or office, and storage space.
What is a foyer in a house?
A foyer is the first room that someone enters when they enter a house. It serves as a first impression and helps to set the tone of your home. The foyer typically includes a hall, an antechamber, or a vestibule.
Its walls and ceilings are often elaborately adorned with beautiful paintings and sculptures, and the floors are often covered in luxurious carpets or marble. The foyer often leads to the other main areas of the house such as the living room, dining room and kitchen.
Depending on the style, size and function of a home, the foyer may contain furniture like a console table, seating, tables and mirrors, or something more decorative like a chandelier or artwork. A foyer can also act as a convenient transition area for coats, boots, and umbrellas, and it’s not uncommon for a homeowner to install a closet in the foyer for these items.
Whether you prefer an understated, modern entryway, or a more luxurious and traditional one, the foyer in your home is an important part of your overall home design.
Why are split-level homes so popular?
Split-level homes are one of the most popular architectural styles for homes for a number of reasons. Firstly, they provide a flexible way to design a space that can accommodate a variety of family needs.
The basic idea behind the split-level style is that the home is split through the center, allowing it to be built on multiple levels. This allows for more square footage, which is a great option for growing families.
It is also more cost effective due to the lower price per square foot compared to single level homes.
The split-level also means that different levels are set out in more sectioned areas, making it easier to arrange furniture as needed while also separating living areas, like a kitchen or dining room, from sleeping areas.
This separation is also beneficial for families who are looking to make use of their space in different ways. With three levels, for example, the parents may have their bedroom and en-suite on the top level, the middle level could contain the kitchen, dining and living area with the bottom level providing space for extra bedrooms, bathrooms and storage.
Split-level homes are also known for their open and airy feel, which offers an inviting and natural flow between rooms. This makes them a great choice for those who prefer an uncluttered and modern aesthetic.
The architectural style also offers an opportunity to create an outdoor living area, which could include an upper level deck or lower level patio.
Overall, split-level homes are a popular choice for families who need a little extra space, flexibility and modern appeal.
Are split-level homes hard to sell?
Split-level homes can be difficult to sell due to their unique floor plans, which can be more difficult to stage and show off to potential buyers. Since split-level homes are not as common as other types of floor plans, they can limit the potential number of interested buyers.
Additionally, the layout of a split-level home can sometimes make the home appear smaller than it is, which can deter buyers from considering the home.
However, split-level homes can still be attractive to buyers and can be sold successfully. Some buyers may prefer this type of home because it offers more distinct and separated spaces, which can be appealing depending on the buyers’ lifestyle.
Split-level homes also offer more interesting architecture and have the potential for more living space as the split levels can often be repurposed and reinvented.
So, although split-level homes can be more challenging to sell, they are still a viable and attractive option for the right buyer. Ultimately, when it comes to selling a split-level home, it is important to stress the positives of the home and make sure that it is presented and staged in a way that the buyers can appreciate.
How do you update a split foyer house?
Updating a split foyer house can be a great way to make the home look more modern and up-to-date. Depending on how extensive the update is, some projects may require professional help while others DIY projects can be taken on with the right tools and some patience.
Some great projects to help update a split foyer house include painting the walls, updating kitchen and bathroom cabinets, replacing appliances, changing countertops, and installing new flooring. Painting the walls can be a great way to quickly change the feel of a room and create a more modern look.
Updating kitchen and bathroom cabinets can be great for bringing a more modern style and more storage solutions to the space. Replacing appliances with newer, energy-efficient models can also be a great idea for reducing energy costs and making the home more modern.
Changing countertops can be an easy way to update the look and feel of a kitchen or bathroom, and installing new flooring can also lift the mood and style of any room. With some patience and the right tools and materials, updating a split foyer house can be a relatively straightforward process and a very rewarding one.
Can you change a split entry home?
Yes, it is possible to change a split entry home. Depending on the extent of the changes you plan to make, the process may be easier or more complicated. To change the overall structure of a split entry home, a contractor should be hired to help determine the feasibility of the project and to do the work.
This will involve fully understanding the existing structure and obtaining any necessary permits or zoning approvals. More minor changes to a split entry home, such as cosmetic updates, can be done on your own, but more extensive changes, such as the installation of new windows, doors, flooring, and walls, should not be done without the help of a contractor.
Additionally, if you are planning any major structural changes, such as adding a second floor or a rear addition, it is best to consult with a design professional. They will be able to provide valuable insight into the best use of space and materials to determine the most cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing changes you can make for your specific home.
Why do people not like split level houses?
Split level houses can be polarizing, and people may not like them for a variety of reasons. The main reason why people may not like split level houses is because of the unique design and the extra space it takes up relative to a typical one-story house.
The often awkward stair-stepped layout can be disorienting, and the large amount of wall space the design requires can be difficult to properly decorate. Additionally, the peak roofs that are often associated with split level homes can be expensive to maintain.
In addition to the aesthetic drawbacks, people may not like split level homes due to the difficulty of construction compared to a more traditional one-story house. The split level architecture requires more intricate and precise foundations, framing and footing than a standard home.
This can drive up the costs of construction and rehabilitation significantly.
Finally, people may not like split level homes due to the poor natural light found in certain areas of the home. The split level design can create areas of the house that are mostly enclosed and dark, making it difficult to properly light the home.
This often necessitates the use of more artificial lighting, as well as creative windows and skylights to bring light into the living space.
Do split levels sell for less?
The short answer is that split levels can often sell for less compared to other homes, depending on the market and area. Generally, split levels are less desirable than single-story homes since they may not have as much open living space or the same privacy that single-story homes allow for.
Additionally, split levels may require more maintenance due to the multiple levels.
When it comes to pricing homes, it is important to consider the comps (or comparable homes) in the neighborhood. For example, if there are more single-story homes in that particular community, split levels may sell for less due to the lack of demand for split levels.
However, if there are more split levels, then the value could be the same or greater than single-story homes.
When deciding to list a split level home, it’s important to get a professional evaluation of both the house and the neighborhood to make sure you are listing your home at the right price level. With a good evaluation, the seller should be able to maximize the selling price, regardless of the fact that it is a split level home.
Is it hard to sell a split-level home?
Selling a split-level home can be more challenging than selling a traditional single-level home. While split-level homes provide several advantages, such as more space than an average two-story home, they can be difficult to market due to aesthetic preferences and potential issues with the home’s structure.
One of the biggest drawbacks to split-level homes is that the design of the house makes it difficult to accurately determine the square footage; this can lead potential buyers to feel like they are not getting a good value for the price.
Additionally, split-level homes often contain awkward and cramped staircases, and potential buyers may not feel comfortable navigating them during a tour. Finally, some buyers may feel uninterested in the split-level design of the home, as it is not seen as “traditional” or “modern”.
Overall, it is not impossible to sell a split-level home, but it requires a special kind of buyer. To increase the chances of a successful sale, it is important to hire a reliable real estate agent and use creative marketing techniques to make the split-level home more attractive to potential buyers.
Additionally, the seller may need to modify the home to appeal to buyers, such as replacing wallpaper, painting the walls, installing new fixtures, and correcting any structural problems. With the right marketing efforts, a split-level home can be successfully sold.
What is the main advantage of a one and one half story house?
The main advantage of a one and one half story house is that it is a great option for maximizing living space, by capitalizing on vertical space and expanding the usable square footage of a home. This type of house is usually constructed with a second floor that is either partially or fully open to the main floor below, creating a “great room” atmosphere with both levels connected.
This can allow for dramatically increased ceiling heights, making the space feel much larger than a traditional one-story home of the same square foot size. This makes it ideal for those who want extra space in their home, without necessarily wanting to build a much larger structure.
Additionally, this type of design can help to add character to a home, with multiple levels and different heights creating a unique, luxurious atmosphere.