Aldridge fits four bedrooms in compact footprint

The Aldridge is surprisingly compact for a four bedroom home. Its footprint, measuring a mere 38 feet wide and 40 feet deep, allows it to fit on a small city lot.

Another plus factor, if built in close proximity to other homes, is that the plan has no side windows. This feature maximizes privacy. At the same time, numerous windows on the front and rear provide an abundance of natural light throughout.

Family living spaces and the owners' suite fill the lower level. Three more bedrooms and another bathroom are upstairs. Entering, you have two choices: climb the stairs, or go into the living room, which flows on into the dining room and kitchen. A coat closet nestles under the stairs.

Designed for efficiency, the C-shaped kitchen makes cooking and clean-up easy. The sink, stove and refrigerator are set in a tight triangle so nothing is more than a few steps away. At the same time, cupboard and counter spaces are quite ample, wrapping around three sides of the room.

Standing at the kitchen sink, you can gaze out the rear window to appreciate the passing seasons, or keep an eye on youngsters at play. The kitchen is also entirely open to the dining room, where sliding glass doors provide patio access.

The Aldridge's owners' suite has a step-in closet and direct access to a bathroom with combination tub and shower.

Laundry appliances and a walk-in storage closet line the passthrough space that connects the house to its two-car garage. This arrangement comes in very handy for entering safely at night, or unloading groceries in stormy weather.