Handsome Redmond suits modern family

Wooden posts, handrails and shutters give a traditional look to the Redmond, a midsize home designed to meet the needs of a contemporary family. All on one level, this plan could easily be adapted for wheelchair accessibility.

Sidelights brighten a fairly wide entry, open to the living room on the left. Another side of the living room is open to the hallway. Handsome square columns mark the room's boundaries.

Standing in the entry, you face into the dining room. Triple sliders fill most of the rear wall, brightening the entire space. The covered patio is ideal for outdoor dining, and could be screened if desired.

Kitchen and family room are all of a piece. The sink is built into an angled island with a raised eating bar. Refrigerator, sink and range cluster together in a tight triangle, creating an efficient, step-saving work area. A bright window bay expands the nook, and sliding glass doors add to the natural light. Flames in the gas fireplace add warmth and color when daylight is in short supply.

The pantry and utility room are nearby, located in a passthrough space that connects to the garage. Two bedrooms are also in this wing, along with the main bathroom.

If it's quiet you're looking for, the Redmond's master suite and den (or office) are a good bet. Both are well-isolated from the informal family living area and secondary bedrooms. Amenities here include a large walk-in closet, and a skylit bathroom with double vanity, oversized shower and private water closet. Its easy to imagine a hot tub on the patio just outside the sliding doors.

Having the den so close makes it ideal for use as a nursery, when children are small.