European Sausalito Evokes French Chateau

It's simple to imagine arriving upon the Sausalito while meandering through the French countryside in this European style house plan. That decorative iron railing exudes Frenchness, while the shutters, stone veneer, porch posts, and multipaned windows add country charm. Arched openings lead into a large three-car garage with added depth within the single bay.

Everyday family living and special events take place in the large, window-bright gathering space on the ground floor. Kitchen, dining and family rooms flow together, linked by a wide arch. Slim windows flank a gas fireplace that creates a cheerful focal point on the right side; dining and kitchen are on the left.

Windows fill most of the rear wall. Inside the dining area, one of two door-high windows opens onto a partially covered patio. Counters wrap around three sides of the kitchen, and more workspace is available on the work island.A raised eating bar runs across the front, while a built-in cook top is seated on the opposite side. The step-in pantry is exceptionally wide.

In addition to the bathroom, two more areas fill out this floor: an office, a study, just inside the entry, and an office/den right off the kitchen. Either, of course, could be put to other uses.

On the second-floor, a balcony overlooks the dramatic, two-story foyer. Additionally, it links the owners' suite on the right with secondary bedrooms, utility room, and a large bonus room on the left. The bonus rooms large walk-in closet offers attic access.

The Sausalito's owners' suite features a substantial walk-in closet, and also a smaller one opposite. The owners bathroom has a dual vanity, private toilet and an oversized walk-in shower with a built-in seat. Secondary bedrooms share a two-section bathroom.