House Plan of the Week & Cost to Build


This luxurious 1-1/2 story blends a spectacular open floor plan with the increasingly popular "master-down" design. The attractive brick exterior is accented with stucco trim. Though this lovely home measures 2954 square feet, it "feels" considerably larger.

Just beyond the inviting 2-story entry lies an open foyer which vaults to 18'. To the right is a spacious dining room surrounded by decorative columns. Just beyond the "bridge" is an enormous two-story family room. The sumptuous master suite includes a tray ceiling. Optional pocket doors provide direct access to the study. Its bath features his and hers vanities and a large walk-in closet.

The very roomy kitchen features a 4'x4' center island. The "bayed" breakfast area with its vaulted ceiling adds a real flair. The basement provides plenty of storage area and allows for future expansion. Lower level rooms which are not vaulted have 9' ceilings.

Upstairs, accessed by the "bridge", are three large bedrooms, one with a private bath, and the others sharing a "Jack and Jill" bath. All upper level rooms have 8' ceilings.
4 Bed, 4Bath, 1st floor/Sq. ft. 2093, 2nd floor/861 sq. ft., Total Living area = 2954sq. ft., Garage/460


Traditional Style COOL House Plan ID: chp-17891





To estimate cost, I'll use my resource #5 , “Building Costs by City & State”, on "Getting Started" on www.byoh.com., using frame construction with brick veneer, full unfinished basement, & “average" quality throughout.



Using this "shape" on the "cost to build" calculator for Grand Rapids, MI area, I came up with $283,321 for an owner/builder. That’s an approximate cost of $96 per sq. ft.

I determined this amount by deducting the General Contractor’s Markup, equipment rental, and allowed only $2,000 for insurance.

Breakdown of Building Costs For This House. PDF
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You should keep in mind that the cost to build for this example, or any house plan, can vary considerably depending quality of materials selected, and on actual bids for labor and material.

The estimate for this house is an approximate one based on “average” quality materials. Highly decorative, starkly original or exceptionally well-appointed residences will cost more.

Until you actually start getting bids and entering them into your own spreadsheet (see my spreadsheet page for FREE spreadsheets), it will remain approximate.