1. Open

We wanted an open, airy home. From this, you'll notice a lot of windows and skylights. We have a large, open great room and basement rec room. We have tried to minimize narrow hallways, doors, and stairs.

2. Comfortable

We wanted a comfortable place... form over function. We're pretty informal and don't own china or such things. You won't find a snooty foyer and front room. Our dining room is medium-sized and won't get much use. The Master bedroom and bath got a lot of space and attention.

3. Special

We want enough unique elements to the house that it has a special feel. I know this is ambiguous, so let me give some examples that you'll find in the plan. Check out (in no particular order):

• Cool dual hearth fireplace in the middle of both the basement rec room and the great room
• Large wraparound front porch that mimics the shape of the house and has slats over it with (presumably) a removable cover
• Cool horseshoe walkway around the stairs in the basement
• Open sight lines from the front door though the great room to the back of the house, and sideways from the kitchen through to the great room
• The glass cubes connecting the basement, dinette and master bath in the back of the house
• Nifty overlapping up/down staircases on the first floor
• Funky master bedroom and master bath

And so on...