Dogwood boasts large gathering space

Craftsman detailing lends its distinctive appearance to the Dogwood, a compact and charming home that fits neatly on a narrow city lot. This floor plan is equally well-suited to meeting the wants and needs of young families or empty nesters. And being all on one level, it's easily adaptable for wheelchair accessibility.

Stone veneer covers the squared post supports that outline the covered porch. It's easy to imagine relaxing on an old-fashioned wooden porch swing here, while reading a book and sipping lemonade. Other Craftsman features include the low-pitched front-facing gables and geometric gridding on the windows.

Inside, family and friends will appreciate the large informal gathering space, where the living room, dining room and kitchen flow together. Windows fill much of rear wall, and one set slides open to access a covered patio. This could easily be screened, if built in an area where flying insects would detract from the outdoor dining experience.

In the kitchen, a raised eating bar rims the central work island, which also provides a major boost to cupboard and counter space. The roomy storage closet nearby can serve as both pantry and broom closet.

The owners' suite is well isolated from the secondary bedrooms. Its two-section bathroom has a dual vanity near the large walk-in closet, while a separately enclosed toilet and shower fill the other end. Laundry appliances are also in this wing, in a utility room complete with a long folding counter. The counter also makes a handy location for a sewing machine.

Double doors in the foyer open into one of the Dogwood's secondary bedrooms. Because of its easy access to the front porch, it could be used as a home office.