Inspiring Simple Two-Storey Home Designs on a Shoestring Budget

A major hurdle for homeowners is selecting the perfect blueprint for their ideal residence from numerous options. The plethora of architectural styles and floor plans makes picking one that aligns both with individual tastes and financial constraints quite daunting. Thankfully, affordable straightforward bi-level homes present a great option, merging functionality with visual attractiveness.

Many property owners prefer two-story homes because they offer extensive living areas while optimizing land usage. Affordable two-story home designs typically include spacious rooms, an open layout, and attractive vistas from higher floors. Nonetheless, choosing the ideal plan might feel overwhelming, particularly for individuals with limited funds. In this piece, we have gathered some of the finest economical options for two-story residences.

Inexpensive basic double-story home plans

An excellent two-story house design strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics, optimizing space usage while guaranteeing comfort and smooth movement within the dwelling. Essential components encompass:

• A well-designed floor plan that allows for smooth navigation from one room to another.
• Generous natural illumination via thoughtfully positioned windows.
• A pleasing façade that blends well with the nearby surroundings.

Here are several uplifting designs for compact two-story houses to assist you in imagining your ideal dwelling.

1. Two storey cottage

This compact and straightforward house plan is one of the best cheap 2 storey house designs, especially because it effectively meets the needs of its occupants. It has a sufficient number of bedrooms to accommodate both family members and guests. Also, the modern facade design showcases the unique character of the homeowners, with a stylish blend of various materials enhancing its appeal.

This design includes a large terrace along with a covered carport, offering key functionalities without expanding the house’s total size. The carport has the potential for easy expansion to accommodate two cars or could alternatively be converted into a complete garage.

Despite its average size by contemporary standards, the first floor has a combined kitchen and living room area that cover nearly 30 square metres. This living room can also be converted into a guest bedroom from the study, thanks to the ample bathroom equipped with a shower stall and space for a washing machine.

The design has incorporated a boiler room, which is conveniently situated beneath the staircase. This is meant to optimize space use. The staircase is designed as a complete set without spiral turns, containing a landing for easier access.

On the second floor, there are three complete bedrooms that share a sizable bathroom similar in size to the one on the first floor. This bathroom is placed above the first-floor bathroom and furnace, facilitating plumbing distribution and allowing for a shared ventilation system.

2. A two-story design built into a slope

This beautifully designed two storey hillside house plan is well laid out for you to experience stunning views. The layout maximises the scenery from both levels. The main floor has a primary bedroom as a personal retreat, offering direct access to a covered balcony ideal for enjoying the landscape.

There is a flex space on this level. The space benefits from ample natural light, thanks to the sliding glass door that connects to the outdoors.

The top floor features an L-shaped kitchen that flows seamlessly into a lofty living space and dining area for casual meals. This design encourages social engagement amongst visitors. Guests have effortless access to both interior and exterior spaces as they can slide open the glass doors leading out to the terrace, allowing them to fully appreciate the stunning vistas offered by the surroundings.

3. Modern drive-through home design

The modern house plan with a drive-through feature aims to create an impressive initial impact. Boasting expansive windows and a chic exterior, this design fosters a warm ambiance as soon as one approaches via the driveway. Its open-plan configuration optimizes roominess, facilitating easy flow among the living, dining, and cooking zones.

This contemporary home plan stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking affordable housing within a limited budget. The layout includes an elevated second story and offers plentiful storage solutions throughout. Both the front and back areas feature drivable garages; notably, one can fit up to two cars comfortably. As visitors enter through the main door, they find themselves in a spacious entrance hall which connects directly to a compact storeroom located at the corridor’s terminus, complete with integrated shelves for additional organization.

The primary living space occupies the top floor and is bathed in natural light through multiple glass doors and windows. This open-plan design facilitates social gatherings, especially during summertime when these doors can slide open to connect seamlessly with an expansive terrace.

The kitchen is crafted for efficiency, enabling owners to cook meals with ease as guests assemble nearby. Additionally, it features an integrated bar top.

4. Attic home design

This sloping-roof house plan is favored due to its smart architectural layout options. It has an outer layer with a texture similar to tree bark, although this decorative element isn’t mandatory. One key aspect of the design is flexibility; thus, you have the freedom to choose building and completion materials as desired. By incorporating short partitions within the loft area, maximum utility of the rooftop zone is achieved, cutting down expenses related to each constructed square meter.

The roof is completely equipped with insulation, acting as a robust shield for the interior spaces. A fireplace in the living room enhances both coziness and aesthetic appeal, notably close to where you dine. The ground-level bedroom has versatile potential, suitable as either a workspace, entertainment zone, or viewing area.

The outdoor patio included in the plan offers a great space for socializing over barbecue dinners with friends. You have the flexibility to adjust its dimensions as per your preference without being limited by the initial layout. To protect against harsh sun rays, consider installing an umbrella or arbor.

The small garage is adequate for most cars, protecting them from the weather. Next to the garage lies a tech space where you can keep all your automotive tools and parts.

Ascending the stairs to the second floor leads to a small hallway which grants access to the bedrooms and bathroom. Above the technical room is a bathroom paired with a laundry area, optimizing hot water usage. The master bedroom is quite spacious and includes a balcony overlooking the bay window on the first floor.

5. Simple two-storey farmhouse

This farmhouse design has an inviting exterior and a straightforward interior design. The entryway leads into a hallway that opens up to a large great room connected to the kitchen. A wood stove in the great room enhances the cosy atmosphere.

The kitchen has a built-in eating bar, which facilitates space optimisation. Additionally, there's a walk-in pantry and views of the covered deck. On this level, you'll also find a studio suite.

A standout aspect of the farmhouse is the vaulted loft upstairs, which includes a generous full bathroom and a walk-in closet. Three attic spaces are available to further maximize storage.

Is it more expensive to build a two storey house?

Constructing a multi-level home typically incurs higher expenses because of several elements like requiring a sturdier base, greater quantities of building supplies, and intricate architectural plans along with plumbing, electrical work, and ventilation systems. These extra expenditures stem from the enhanced structural demands and supplementary finishing touches necessary for each floor.

What reasons are there for constructing two-story homes?

A house with two stories provides numerous benefits such as expanded living area without needing extra land, enhanced vistas and sunlight exposure, and greater distinction between personal zones and communal spaces. This layout facilitates exterior lifestyle elements like terraces and patios, making it well-suited for city environments due to its compact size.

Final word

Low-budget simple two storey house designs offer a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics for homeowners seeking to create their dream space without breaking the bank. From charming cottages to modern hillside plans, each design in this list showcases innovative layouts that maximise space and natural light while ensuring comfort and flow. By choosing a design that fits your personal style and budget, you can transform your vision into a reality and enjoy the benefits of a well-planned home.

NewsBlog.co.ke has released an article featuring easy-to-follow designs for three-bedroom houses suitable for constructing within a limited budget. This piece presents several uncomplicated and cost-effective three-bedroom home layouts designed with different requirements and tastes in mind. Every design comes thoroughly outlined, complete with measurements and spatial arrangements, which helps aspiring homeowners better imagine their upcoming living spaces.