If you’re searching for the ideal two story suburban house floor plan, you’re not alone. Many are searching for the right mix of style, comfort, and function in their next home design. At DBA Architects, we’ve worked with clients who want a house that fits their lifestyle now and in the future. Whether you lean toward modern traditional house designs or prefer something more classic, getting the right floor plan makes all the difference.
Why Two Story Suburban Homes Are So Popular
The two story suburban house floor plan is a favorite among growing families and homeowners who value having more living space on a smaller foundation. This layout allows for better separation of rooms and often includes more bedrooms, bathrooms, and flexible areas like offices, sunrooms, or bonus rooms.
In many suburban houses 2 story, the lower floor houses the common areas—kitchen, dining room, living room, and often a garage or porch. The upper floor is usually where the private bedrooms and full bathrooms are located. This structure offers more privacy and helps minimize noise between living spaces. For homeowners who want to increase square footage without expanding their foundation, the 2 story suburban house layout is a wise choice.
Key Features of a Two Story Suburban House Floor Plan
1. Simple Roof Lines and Smart Design
One thing many homeowners ask for is house plans with simple roof lines. A well-planned roof not only keeps costs down, but also reduces future maintenance. This is where sleek gable or hip roof types shine. Simple doesn’t mean boring—paired with brick or wood siding, the result is timeless and practical.
2. Functional Layouts That Work
In a traditional 2 story house, function is key. From the flow between the kitchen, pantry, and dining room to the placement of the laundry and bathrooms, everything should feel easy to navigate. The right layout balances open-concept living with defined spaces for privacy.
3. Storage Where It Matters
Whether it’s a garage, shed, closet, or basement, good storage can make or break a house. A great floor plan includes well-thought-out spots for seasonal items, sports gear, and everything a busy household needs.
4. Livable Outdoor Areas
Decks, patios, and courtyards are part of what makes suburban homes so enjoyable. These outdoor spaces are ideal for morning coffee, backyard BBQs, or just getting some fresh air. And if you’re in Texas, Florida, or Virginia, you’ll get good use out of them most of the year.
Popular Styles in 2 Story Suburban Home Design
People often wonder: what style fits a two story house? The wonderful thing is that you may choose practically any style! When we talk about two story suburban house design, there are some looks that are really popular with homeowners.
Modern Traditional House Designs
These homes take the familiar feel of a classic house and mix in some updated features. You might see open space inside or big glass windows that let in lots of light.
Cape Cod
These houses often have a cozy vibe with steeper roof lines and cute little dormer windows peeking out. They feel very welcoming.
Farmhouse
The farmhouse style is another favorite. Imagine a big porch where you can relax, simple roof lines, and maybe some wood siding. It’s a comfortable and classic look.
Cottage
If you like something charming and maybe a bit smaller, a cottage-style two story house could be perfect. They often have sweet details and feel very cozy.
Mountain-inspired Homes
For those who love the outdoors, mountain-inspired homes bring in natural elements like stone and wood. They often have a sturdy feel and might feature large windows to take in views.
Barndominiums
Barndominiums are a unique choice. They blend the open space of a barn with comfortable living areas. High ceilings and an industrial vibe are standard.
Bungalows
And let’s not forget the bungalow. While often thought of as one story, you can find charming two story bungalows that offer a cozy and efficient layout.
No matter which architectural style catches your eye, the right interior design, a well-thought-out blueprint, and good architecture are key. These elements work together to make the most of your chosen floor plan and bring out the unique character of your house. At DBA Architects, we can help you explore these different styles and create a design that truly reflects your taste and lifestyle.
Common Questions About Two Story Homes
What does a two story house look like?
Think of a home with two full floors—you’ll often see windows, a porch, and sometimes a balcony on the front.
What is the cheapest house design to build?
Simple box-style homes with minimal roof lines and straightforward layouts are typically the most cost-effective.
Are 2 Story Houses More Expensive?
Not always. While they may be more expensive to build than single-story homes, two story houses can save money on land since they use a smaller footprint.
Can Modular or Mobile Homes Be Two Story?
Yes, modular homes and even some mobile homes can have a second floor. However, the design and build require specific engineering and may not be as flexible as site-built homes.
How Many Rooms Does a 2 Story House Have?
It varies, but a typical layout might include 3-5 bedrooms, 2-3 bathrooms, a kitchen, living room, and sometimes bonus spaces like a sunroom, home office, or game room.
What Are 2 Story Houses Called?
They go by many names—colonial, cape cod, farmhouse, or simply 2 story suburban houses depending on their style and design.
Can You Make a One Story House Into a Two Story House?
Yes, but it’s a big project. You’ll need to evaluate the existing foundation, roof, and walls to see if they can handle the extra weight. That’s where working with experienced professionals like us at DBA Architects becomes essential.
Getting the Right Help With Your Floor Plan
Designing the right home means more than picking a style you like. It’s about making sure the floor plan works for you now and down the road. Here’s how we help at DBA Architects:
- Master Planning to map out your property’s full potential
- Programming and Conceptualization that focuses on your needs
- Schematic Design to give you a solid starting point
- Design Development and Interior Design services that pull it all together
- Construction Documents, Permitting, and City Representation to make the process smooth
- Help with Value Engineering and Bid Negotiations to stay within budget
We work closely with homeowners to design homes that feel just right from the foundation up.
Final Thoughts: Make Your 2 Story Suburban House Layout Dream a Reality
A great two story suburban house floor plan is more than just a layout—it’s a blueprint for your life. Whether you want that open-concept kitchen, space for the kids to grow, or a second-story deck with a view, the right design brings it all together.
At DBA Architects, we’ve helped homeowners across Texas, Virginia, and Florida plan and design traditional 2 story houses and modern traditional house designs that work for real families. From initial sketches to construction-ready documents, our services are designed to support you every step of the way.
Ready to start your home design? Let us help with:
- Custom two story suburban house layouts
- Streamlined schematic design and interior design
- Stress-free permitting, construction administration, and more
Reach out to DBA Architects to talk about your ideas. Your dream house starts with a smart floor plan.
7 Invaluable Tips for a Smooth Collaboration with an Architect in Dallas
Ultra Modern House Exterior Design: 2025 Luxury Home Ideas
