Split-level house
So many types of houses to choose from! Are you choosing your future house? If so, get to know another type that exists named the “Split-Level” house. Let’s discover the characteristics and main uniqueness of this house type. When and how did it appear in your lives? Let’s dive in!
What is a split-level house called?
A split-level home is one that has its living spaces divided onto various levels. In the 1950s and 1960s, this design of home gained popularity in the US.
Most homes include an entrance on the main level, followed by a few steps leading up to the bedrooms and down to the living spaces, like the family room or basement. The open floor plan of the home is still possible because of this design's level of separation between the public and private areas.
Because of their accessibility, usefulness, and distinctive form, split-level houses were a preferred type of dwelling in the middle of the 20th century. They were thought to be a novel approach to making the most space possible on a tiny
Split-level houses were a popular style of home in the mid-20th century due to their affordability, functionality, and unique design. They were seen as an innovative way to maximize space on a small lot, as well as to provide separation between living areas while still maintaining an open feel.
While split-level houses are not as common today as they were in the past, many homes still incorporate elements of this design, such as multi-level living spaces or sunken living rooms.
What is the purpose of a split-level house?
A split-level home's purpose is to establish separation between various living spaces while preserving an open floor plan. The split-level layout makes it possible to separate the room into separate spaces for sleeping and living without using walls.
Split-level construction is still commonly seen today where it’s necessary to build a home on the side of a hill. In this case, the floor plan is often designed by an architect to fit the individual lot topography. The end effect can lend the appearance of the house being built into the hill.
4 Common Characteristics of Split-Level Homes
Here are some of the characteristics of split-level homes.
1. Short stairs: The many levels of short stairs leading from floor to floor are the most notable feature of a split-level home. The flights of stairs in a split-level home typically consist of three or four steps.
2. Bay windows: Most split-level homes will have a large bay window or picture window in the main living area to let in natural light.
3. Finished basement level: The lower basement level is usually not all the way underground in a split-level home and it is usually finished. This makes it the perfect space for an additional family room or laundry room.
4. Low-pitched roofs: Split-level homes typically have low-pitched roofs to maximize the largest spaces of the home while still allowing rain and snow to slide off of the roof.
Types of Split-Level Houses
It is crucial to understand that not all split-level homes are constructed equally and that different types have a variety of distinctive qualities before making a purchase. Hence, before buying your own split-level home, you should be aware of the various split levels if you know someone who has one and is in love with the floor layout.
1. Standard - Split
Guests, as well as residents, enter the home at ground level in a standard split. Little flights of stairs will then lead to other rooms in the house. The typical split-level home will have three sections, but it might have more.
Usually, the garage or a den is on the lower level. The entertaining occurs in the middle part. Typically, the kitchen, living room, and dining room are located here. The bedrooms and baths are often located in the top sections.
This style of floor has the bedrooms on a different level from the living area and kitchen, which is a huge advantage. Children can play in their rooms without troubling their parents as much.
2. Split-Foyer
Homes with a split foyer feature two levels. In contrast to traditional house structures, split-foyer homes have two sets of steps right outside the front entrance. The higher level is reached via one set of stairs, while the lower level is reached by the other set. Hence, unlike other split-level designs, there is no functional middle part.
The main rooms, such as bathrooms, kitchen, dining room, and bedrooms, are typically located on the upper floor. Some families use the lower levels as garages while others utilize the space as dens and play areas for children
3. Split-Entry
This type is characterized by a split entryway with a short staircase leading up to the main living area. There is also a short staircase leading down to the lower level. The upper level typically includes the living room, dining room, and kitchen, while the lower level may be used as a family room, additional bedrooms, or a garage.
One of its benefits is the roomy layout, which provides plenty of space for larger families and individuals who enjoy entertaining guests. You may easily send the kids to a different floor when it's time for bed so that they won't be bothered by visitors.
4. Side-Split
This type of split-level house has two or three levels. They are visible from the front of the house, with the living areas on one side and the bedrooms on the other. The front door often leads directly into the main living area, with a short staircase leading up to the bedrooms and a short staircase leading down to the lower level.
5. Back-Split
It is similar to the side-split house, but the living areas and bedrooms are separated by a staircase. The front door typically leads into a foyer or entryway, with a staircase leading up to the bedrooms.
Where are split-level homes most common in the US?
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From the 1950s until the 1970s, split-level houses were the most common in the US. They were a well-liked option for suburban housing complexes at the time because of its cost-effective construction and effective utilization of available space.
Although split-level homes are common across the country, they are particularly prevalent in the Northeast and Midwest. This is due to the fact that these areas saw an increase in suburban development in the years following World War II, which is also the time when split-level homes rose in popularity.
Split-level homes are less common than they once were, although some homeowners continue to favor them as a design option. Many split-level homes have been renovated and updated to meet modern design standards, while others have been converted into multi-family homes or apartments.
Split Level House Vs. Bi-Level House
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Both split-level and bi-level homes are made to make the most of the space on a compact lot, but they differ significantly in some important ways.
Several levels that are entirely or partially above or below grade define a split-level home. With a few stairs leading up to the living space and a few steps leading down to the lower level, the entrance is typically on the main level. By maintaining an open floor plan, this design offers some degree of separation between the public and private areas of the home.
On the other hand, a bi-level home has two levels that are both partly above grade. With a short flight of steps leading up to the main living room and a short flight of stairs leading down to the lower level, the entryway is often found in the center of the house. Typically, the primary living space is found above the garage, with the bottom level being utilized for a family room, additional bedrooms, or a garage.
One of the main differences between a split-level and a bi-level house is the placement of the entryway. In a split-level house, the entryway is usually on the main level, meanwhile, in a bi-level house, the entryway is usually in the middle of the house. Additionally, split-level houses often have more levels than bi-level houses, providing even more separation between living areas.
The choice between them depends on your preferences butt split-level houses may be better suited for families who need more space and privacy. Bi-level houses may be a better fit for those who want an open floor plan with easy access to all living areas.
What is the difference between a split-level and a two-story house?
Split-level and two-story homes both have multiple living levels, but the difference is that split-level homes typically have three or four living levels instead of two main levels.
One couldn’t say one is better than the other as it depends on your house preferences and what style can suit your family the best!
Are split-level homes a good investment?
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A house is always a good investment but there are things to consider before getting one. For example, the main factors on a house's value can be the location, conditions, and indeed the types of the house.
The value of a split-level home as an investment also depends on factors such as location, condition, and current real estate market conditions. Split-level homes can be a wise investment because of their distinctive design and effective use of space in specific localities.
A split-level property in good shape with updated amenities may be worth more than a comparable home in poor condition. The value of a split-level property as an investment can also depend on the health of the real estate market at the time of purchase or selling.
Pros And Cons Of Buying A Split-Level House
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Every house has a big list of pros and cons that a buyer needs to look into before making the big decision. Let’s discuss the main pros and cons of a split-level house.
Pros
1. Separation
Although some might have up to five levels, split-level homes typically feature three different floors of living space. A family room-convertible basement and an attached garage are frequently included on the lower level. The kitchen, dining area, and family room are located on the main level, while the bedrooms are often found on the upper floor.
2. Fewer Parking Problems
An attached, lower-level garage is a standard feature in split-level homes. If you move into a split-level home, you’ll seldom have to worry about circling the block to look for street parking.
3. They are affordable
Although split-level homes are often more affordable than single-family homes of comparable size, you can get a lot of space for your money. Because of this, a split-level home can be a fantastic first-home choice for a young, expanding family.
4. Outside Space
When it comes to split-level homes there will often be plenty of backyard space for outdoor family activities.
Cons
1. Restricted mobility
With many stairs and even though usually very short, there is a need to constantly climb and move around which will not be comfortable for people with special needs or families with young children.
2. Remodeling challenges
Adding an addition or renovating a split-level home is challenging because the multiple floors of the house are stacked on top of one another.
3. Noise
Because of the separation of living areas, split-level homes can be noisy, with sounds carrying throughout the home.
FAQ
What is a split-level home in real estate?
A split-level home is a style of house in which the floor levels are staggered.
What are the benefits of a split-level home?
There are many benefits to split-level homes. Some of them are:
They are more affordable, fewer parking problems, and natural lighting because of the usual construction style and what are the more important separation of the house levels and more space!
Who likes split-level homes?
As one of the main challenges with split-level homes is the stairs, perhaps they are more appealing to younger families or people with no mobility issues. Families who don't mind traversing all three levels repeatedly when cleaning, and carrying laundry baskets
Where are split-level homes most common in the US?
From the 1950s until the 1970s, split-level houses were the most common in the US. They were a well-liked option for suburban housing complexes at the time because of its cost-effective construction and effective utilization of available space.
Although split-level homes are common across the country, they are particularly prevalent in the Northeast and Midwest. This is due to the fact that these areas saw an increase in suburban development in the years following World War II, which is also the time when split-level homes rose in popularity.
