8. Modern 1-Bedroom ADU
Because of its layout, this 1-bedroom house plan is perfect as an ADU, in-laws cottage, or even a home office. As can be seen, this flexible single-level plan provides efficient use of 648 square feet of space.
Also, the open floor plan connects the living room and kitchen, creating an airy and spacious feel. Altogether, large windows and sliding glass doors bathe the interior in natural light. As a result, you have an enhanced sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.
9. Modern 1-Bedroom ADU House Plan
Surprisingly, this small house offers an open-concept kitchen and living room in a compact layout. Designed to offer both style and functionality, this thoughtfully crafted space features just one bedroom and one bedroom.
Furthermore, a cozy family room serves as the heart of the home, providing a comfortable space for relaxation. The L-shaped kitchen boasts ample counter space and seamlessly connects to the dinette area, creating a cozy atmosphere for dining and socializing.
Overall, it is a perfect small dwelling to use as a guest house, in-laws’ cottage, or a rental Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). The only thing that is missing is a covered porch or patio. But it is a quick and easy backyard project.
10. 1-Bedroom House Plan with Garage
Among all 1-bedroom house plans, this spacious design checks all the boxes:
- 1 bedroom 1 bath
- walk-in closet
- pantry
- open-concept living-dining room
- 24’x24′ garage
- covered porch
As illustrated, the vertical metal siding gives this 732 square feet house its modern look and barndominium vibe. Furthermore, the plan has a flex space that can serve as a home office, gym, or craft room. Note that laundry is located in the back of the 2-car garage.
11. 418 SqFt ADU over Garage
Check out this floor plan of a modern 418 sqft ADU built over a 2-car garage. As illustrated, a set of external stairs gets you to the 418-square-foot apartment above.
First, a galley kitchen greets you as you enter from the covered landing. Ahead, a vaulted space leads you into your 9’x11′ living room. You can separate a bedroom from the living area with a wall and sliding doors or leave it open.
Furthermore, check a gallery with photos and videos of those who used this plan to build real-life projects.
12. 1-Bedroom House Plan with High Ceilings
The emphasis of this floor plan is on the openness of the main living area with soaring cathedral ceilings. In essence, the eat-in L-shaped kitchen offers an ideal spot for cooking and enjoying casual meals.
Lastly, the bedroom with access to the walk-in closet, serves as a tranquil retreat on the back of the house.
What do we love about this small house design? This home boasts a layout that maximizes every square inch, leaving no room for wasted space. Gone are the long hallways and awkward nooks. Instead, every inch of the floor plan has been carefully considered and utilized to its fullest potential.
According to a recent study, homes with a more open layout with lots of natural light have been linked to increased levels of happiness and overall well-being. Also, with the rise of minimalist and sustainable living, this small house design is not only practical but also aligns with current trends.
What is Included with Professional Plans by Architectural Designs
- Cover Sheet: Shows the front elevation and typical notes and requirements.
- Exterior Elevations: Shows the front, rear, and sides of the home
- Floor Plans: Shows the placement of walls and the dimensions for rooms, doors, windows, stairways, etc. for each floor
- Electrical Plans: Shows the location of outlets, fixtures, and switches.
- Foundation Plans: details the layout and construction of the foundation.
- Roof Plan
- Typical Wall Section
- Typical Stair Section (if applicable)
- Cabinets Elevations (if applicable)
What is Not Included
- Architectural or Engineering Stamp – handled locally, if required
- Site Plan – handled locally when required
- Mechanical Drawings (location of heating and air equipment and ductwork)
- Plumbing Drawings (drawings showing the actual plumbing pipe sizes and locations)
- Energy calculations – handled locally when required
13. Scandinavian Cabin Maja by PinUp Houses
If you need to build a 1-bedroom simple cabin on a tight budget, check out this plan by PinUp Houses. Designed by a professional architect, this minimalistic plan is perfect for DIYers. What are you going to get if you choose this Scandinavian 1-bedroom (+loft) cabin plan:
- complete set of cabin plans
- construction progress + comments
- complete material list + tool list
- eBook ‘How to Build a Tiny House’
- DIY Furniture plans.
Also, the plan can be modified to meet your needs. For example, you can have a bedroom instead of the hall on the first floor. As a result, you won’t have to climb stairs to a sleeping area. Thus, it can be used for storage or occasional guests.
14. Cozy 1-Bedroom Cottage with Flex Room
This cozy cottage gives you a perfect blend of space and functionality. With 624 square feet of space in a 24’x32′ footprint, you get an open-concept living area, 1 spacious bedroom, and 1 flex room (perfect for guests, craft room, or home office). The heart of the home features a well-appointed kitchen and dining area – a cohesive space for both cooking and gathering. Also, a discreetly placed laundry alcove ensures convenience for everyday tasks on the main level.
Embrace outdoor living with a generous 144 sq. ft. covered front porch. It provides a shaded sanctuary for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings. Furthermore, an optional 72 sq. ft. side patio can be added, perfect for al fresco dining.
Some Benefits of Living in a Smaller House
- costs less to build
- you can pick a prime location
- faster to build
- smaller mortgage (or no mortgage)
- lower home insurance costs
- smaller utility bills
- lower property taxes
- less maintenance
- less cleaning
- minimalism and simplicity
- coziness
- more time left for family and hobbies
- financial freedom
While you can write a whole article on any of these valuable points, the advantages are obvious for anyone who spends time studying the issue. So, whether you are downsizing from a bigger home or need a small rental for extra income, 1-bedroom house plans may become your shortcut to financial freedom.
Cost per Square Foot to Build a Home
Of course, the cost per square foot for a residential home varies greatly from state to state, especially when comparing across the United States. For example, the highest estimated cost is in the state of Hawaii ($300-600*), with California holding the second place ($200-400*)* per HomeCost at the time of writing.
Many factors influence the costs, including:
- cost of land
- cost of materials
- labor wages
- local taxes
- building regulations.
According to HomeCost, which gives the list of average prices per square foot for all states alphabetically, the national average is $158, as of the time of writing.
Interestingly, some of the least expensive states are Mississippi ($120), Arkansas ($125), and Alabama ($130).
Property Taxes by State
One other aspect of downsizing that is often overlooked is the reduction of property taxes. Even if you own your huge mansion outright without a monthly mortgage payment, you’ll always have a yearly property tax bill.
Here is a helpful list of states ranked by property tax, from lowest to highest, according to RocketMortgage. Before making your final decision on the location of your new small home, make sure to talk to the local professional and check the effective tax rate.
Also, many factors determine your specific property taxes. Remember that they vary greatly by locality and tend to increase every year if your property value goes up.
Versatility of 1 Bedroom House Plans
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of this small house design is its ability to cater to a variety of lifestyles. It’s perfect for young professionals, young families, families looking to downsize, or even retirees looking for a cozy, low-maintenance home.
1-bedroom plans make a perfect ADU, lake retreat, cozy cabin in the woods, or backyard cottage for multi-generational living. The versatility of the floor plan ensures that it can meet the needs and desires of many lifestyles.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, building a small house on a budget may be a wise financial and lifestyle decision in the long run. Of course, make sure to do your homework by comparing different floor plans, the best cost-effective building materials, smart design choices, and low-maintenance solutions.
As a result, you can create a beautiful and functional home that meets all your needs without breaking the bank. After all, it’s not about the size of the house, but the quality of life it provides you.
