Fireplace, great room at heart of home

Gently arched windows and a combination of hipped and gabled roof lines draw the eye to the Clarkston, a mid-sized family home with a vaulted great room. Its dramatic entry portico, supported by a massive square brick column, adds to the attraction. The arched transom window over the door mirrors the shape of the exterior brick arch.

A freestanding fireplace is at the core of this informal plan. Its central location allows enjoyment of the warmth and colorful flames from the kitchen, nook and family room. The home has no living room, which many contemporary families see as a plus. But it does boast a large dining room facing the street, along with another bright room that could be outfitted as a home office, den, or a fourth bedroom.

Efficiency was a major consideration in designing this kitchen. Range, sink and refrigerator are set in a tight triangle that minimizes wasted steps. Sliding glass doors provide patio access for outdoor dining. Utilities are tucked in a pass-through space that connects the house with a three-car garage. A small powder room is nearby.

Master suite and secondary bedrooms are on opposite sides of the great room. Master suite amenities include a huge walk-in closet, and a private bathroom. A pocket door separates the toilet and shower from the tub and double vanity, while sliders in the sleeping area open onto the patio.

The Clarkston's secondary bedrooms share another dual-compartment bathroom. The double vanity in the outer section allows teens the luxury of extended mirror use without blocking access to the toilet or tub.