This economical two-family ranch duplex offers about 1,872 sq ft of heated living space in total, split into two identical 936 sq ft units. Each side provides 2 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom on a single level, with simple lines, efficient circulation, and a compact footprint that keeps both construction and long-term costs under control. It’s an ideal layout for rental income, extended family living, or downsizers who want straightforward spaces that still feel like a real home.
Exterior & Curb Appeal
The overall building measures roughly 52′ wide × 36′ deep, with a maximum ridge height of about 20′ 6″. The low, ranch-style roofline and clean rectangular shape make it easy to build and easy to site on a modest lot. Simple siding, a few well-placed windows, and matching front entries give the duplex a calm, balanced presence from the street.
Because the massing is compact and symmetrical, the structure reads as a neat, small-scale residence rather than a bulky apartment block. It’s the kind of two-family home that can blend into a neighborhood of single-family houses without feeling out of place.
Two Mirrored Units with Efficient Layouts
Inside, the duplex is split into Unit A and Unit B, each with the same dimensions: about 26′ wide × 36′ deep and 936 sq ft of heated area. Both units follow a mirrored floor plan, so each household enjoys the same room sizes and comfortable flow.
Entry leads directly into the main living zone, where the living room, dining area, and kitchen connect in a straightforward, open fashion. There are no wasted hallway mazes here: circulation is simple, intuitive, and easy to furnish. This efficient layout is a big part of why the home remains economical to build while still feeling livable.
Inside Each Unit: Living, Dining & Kitchen
The living room sits at the front, close to the entry, giving a natural place to greet guests and relax at the end of the day. There’s room for a comfortable sofa, a couple of chairs, and a media wall without crowding.
Just beyond, you’ll find an eat-in dining space that connects to the kitchen. The kitchen runs along one wall or in an L-shape, depending on appliance and cabinet placement, with enough counter length for daily cooking, plus space for upper cabinets to handle dishes and pantry essentials. Because the living, dining, and kitchen areas are visually connected, each 936 sq ft unit feels more open than the numbers suggest.
Bedrooms & Bathroom: Clustered and Comfortable
Both bedrooms in each unit are grouped together along one side, simplifying plumbing and keeping the private spaces away from the busiest part of the home. Standard windows bring in daylight, and there’s space for full-size beds, dressers, and closets in both rooms.
The shared full bathroom sits conveniently near the bedrooms and main living zone, making it easy to access from anywhere in the unit. With a tub/shower combination, vanity, and toilet, it packs everything needed into a compact footprint that still feels comfortable in daily use.
Storage, Utility & Construction Details
Each unit includes storage closets and wardrobe space, plus room in the basement (if finished or partially finished) for seasonal items, sports gear, or mechanical equipment. The simple structure and repeating layout support economical construction and straightforward maintenance.
- Foundation: Basement foundation, ideal for extra storage, laundry, or future finished space.
- Exterior Walls: 2×6 framing, providing sturdy construction and good potential for insulation and energy efficiency.
- Ceiling Height: Approximately 8′ on the main floor for a cozy, efficient feel.
- Roof Form: Simple gable roof, easy to frame and economical to build.
Specs Summary
- Total Heated Living Area: ~1,872 sq ft (both units combined)
- Heated Area per Unit: ~936 sq ft
- Total Bedrooms: 4 (2 per unit)
- Total Bathrooms: 2 full baths (1 per unit)
- Building Dimensions: ~52′ wide × 36′ deep
- Unit Dimensions: ~26′ wide × 36′ deep
- Max Ridge Height: ~20′ 6″
- Foundation: Basement
- Exterior Walls: 2×6 framing
- Stories: 1 story living over basement (per unit)
Lifestyle Highlights
- Each side functions as a complete 2-bedroom home, ideal for small families, couples, or roommates.
- Mirrored layouts simplify construction and give both households equal comfort and convenience.
- Open living/dining/kitchen arrangements make the most of each 936 sq ft unit, avoiding wasted circulation space.
- Basement foundation offers valuable extra square footage for storage, a future rec room, or laundry.
- Compact overall footprint works well on smaller lots or infill sites, while still providing true house-style living instead of an apartment feel.
- Excellent candidate for live-in-one, rent-the-other arrangements or as a fully rented duplex for steady income.
Estimated U.S. Build Cost (USD)
Because of its simple form, single-story layout, and modest finishes, this duplex fits comfortably into the “economical build” category. Assuming typical U.S. construction costs of around $150–$210 per sq ft, building approximately 1,872 sq ft of heated space results in a rough budget range of about $280,000–$393,000 USD. This estimate excludes land, site preparation, permits, utilities, and any regional cost adjustments, but it gives a realistic starting point for planning.
Why This Duplex Plan Works So Well
This economical two-family ranch duplex focuses on what matters: simple structure, efficient circulation, and practical room sizes that support comfortable everyday living. Each 2-bedroom, 1-bath unit feels like a complete little home, while the overall 52′ × 36′ footprint keeps land use and build costs under control. For owners seeking rental income, multi-generation setups, or a pair of modest but genuine homes under one roof, this design offers a smart, budget-friendly path to long-term value.
