This one-story country-Craftsman duplex provides two mirror units, each about 848 sq ft, for a combined heated area of roughly 1,696 sq ft. Each unit includes 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths, thoughtful porches, and a compact footprint that makes this plan well suited for rental income, multi-family living, or a pair of small households who want privacy without excess. 0 0
Exterior & Curb Appeal
The exterior leans into country-Craftsman character: modest gables, covered porches, and a simple, approachable silhouette that fits narrow or modest lots. The plan’s overall width is about 48′ with a depth near 44′, and a maximum ridge height roughly 18′-6″ — compact dimensions that keep the profile low and neighbor-friendly. Large front and rear porches strengthen curb appeal while adding usable outdoor space for each unit. 1 1
Porches & Outdoor Space
Outdoor spaces are intentionally modest but practical: combined porch areas include about 144 sq ft of front porches and 128 sq ft of rear porches (split between the two units). Those sheltered spots give each household a private place to sit, greet guests, or set a small outdoor seating area without adding expensive rooflines or complicated construction. 2 2
Interior Flow — Efficient, Comfortable Living
Inside each 848-sq-ft unit the layout emphasizes efficiency: an open living/kitchen area maximizes usable space, while the two bedrooms are clustered away from the main zone for privacy. Each unit’s full-size kitchen includes practical counter space and a pantry or storage niche; bathrooms are positioned to keep plumbing compact and construction economical. With an 8-foot main ceiling height, the interior feels comfortable and straightforward to build and finish. 3
Utility & Construction Details
The plan is designed for straightforward construction: standard 2×4 exterior walls (upgradeable to 2×6), stick framing, and a crawl foundation option. The roof uses a 7:12 primary pitch, which gives the home a crisp Craftsman profile without excessive attic volume. These choices help keep initial construction complexity and cost predictable. 4 3
Specs Summary
- Total Heated Area: ~1,696 sq ft (two units × 848 sq ft each). 5
- Per-Unit: 848 sq ft — 2 beds, 2 full baths. 6
- Bedrooms (total): 4 (2 per unit). 7
- Bathrooms (total): 4 full (2 per unit). 8
- Dimensions: Footprint ~48′ wide × 44′ deep; max ridge ~18′-6″; first-floor ceiling 8′. 9
- Porches: Front porches total ~144 sq ft; rear porches total ~128 sq ft. 10
- Foundation & Walls: Crawl foundation option; exterior walls 2×4 (2×6 optional). 11
- Roof / Framing: Primary roof pitch 7 on 12; stick framing. 12
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Lifestyle & Use Cases — Who This Plan Fits
- Rental investor: Two compact, fully self-contained units make this an attractive small-scale income property with modest build and maintenance costs.
- Multi-family or in-law living: Close-by but separate units work well for adult children, aging parents, or roommates who want privacy and independence.
- Starter households: Each unit gives the essentials — two bedrooms, two baths, and porch living — without the overhead of a large single-family house.
Why the Design Works
What this duplex does well is pack comfortable living into a small, efficient footprint. Clustered bedrooms and compact plumbing runs lower build complexity and long-term maintenance. The Craftsman touches — covered porches, modest gables, and simple trim — give the buildings personality without costly ornamentation. The plan balances affordability, privacy, and curb appeal in a practical, buildable package. 13
Estimated U.S. Build Cost (USD)
Using a typical mid-range U.S. construction cost assumption of roughly $180–$260 per sq ft, constructing the full duplex (≈1,696 sq ft total) would suggest a rough budget near **$305,280–$440,960 USD** (this estimate excludes land, site work, permits, utility hookups, and regional cost variation). For builders seeking a lean rental or an economical multi-family option, finishing level and local labor rates will drive the final number. 14
Final Take
This country-Craftsman duplex is a smart solution when you want two comfortable, self-contained homes on a single footprint. It’s efficient to build, easy to maintain, and offers real versatility—rental income, extended family living, or two small households under one roof. The modest porches and Craftsman detailing give it everyday charm while keeping the plan practical and budget-friendly.
