By Mark Abromaitis

THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

A two-story, single family home may have been in vogue 20 or more years ago, but studies show that many Americans are now opting for a single-floor style of living.

A recent survey by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) recently revealed an increasing demand for single-level home designs, not just among older  Americans, but baby boomers and younger generations as well.

“One-level homes simply provide greater accessibility and are generally more cost-effective. And those benefits appeal to people of every age,” says Maris Grove Retirement Counselor Pam Matschat.

“The thing we hear most often from people who move to Maris Grove is that they are thrilled to be done climbing the stairs and that they feel they are living more efficiently,” she adds.

Waste not, want not

Matschat says that Maris Grove is seeing requests for their homes, which are all one-level, increase because single-floor living represents a huge cost savings.

“It just makes better sense,” Matschat says. “If you think about it, most people find themselves doing the bulk of their living in their kitchen, den, or living room, and a bedroom. So why have those things stretched out on two different floors? And why pay to heat and cool two floors in a house or clean rooms that you simply never use?”

‘Lighten’ up

New homes are also moving away from the boxy rooms, narrow hallways, and divorced living and dining rooms in favor of larger, more flexible spaces. In fact, 66% of architectural firms surveyed by the AIA say that more and more homes are being designed with an “open space” layout with more access to natural daylight.

“Single floor living is becoming so popular—but people don’t like to be cramped,” Retirement Counselor Julieann Brant says. “Our most popular models offer those open floor plans with lots of natural light.”