This cypress-and-stucco cottage offers the special appeal of a weekend resort and the year-round comfort and livability of a home in town. Much of the home's charm derives from its simple, traditional lines. Raised on a foundation of whitewashed brick, the cottage features a hipped wood-shake roof, multipaned casements, and a center chimney with a well-detailed brick cap. Boxed cypress columns support the entry porch. Functioning wood shutters can be added to secure the house. The plan contains about 1,900 square feet of heated space, including three bedrooms, two baths, and a large living room. Vaulted ceilings in the living room and master bedroom give a spacious feeling. Skylights at the rear open the house to trees and sky without compromising its traditional facade. French doors to the porch and transom-topped windows help open rooms to natural light. Placement of windows and doors creates cross-ventilation. Wide, cased openings between rooms, a whole-house fan, and ceiling fans increase air circulation. The plans include construction drawings for an attached garage. Details are provided for both a crawlspace and a slab-on-grade foundation. Phillip Franks of Birmingham is the designer of this plan.

An Exclusive Design for Southern Living by Philip Franks