This plan recalls the rustic charm of an old French manor house. Board-and-batten cedar siding stained a soft gray, along with wood trim painted a deep red, lends a look of antiquity. The plan offers 3 bedrooms and 21/2 baths in approximately 3,000 square feet of living space. An optional plan for a basement includes a fourth bedroom and bath as well as a workshop. The front doorway's detailing includes a fanlight and sidelights, as well as traditional wood moldings. The recessed doorway provides protection from the weather. A fan window in the peak of the gable lights the double-height foyer as well as the upper-story landing. The country-style living room has a high, vaulted ceiling and exposed wood trusses. Lofty, but warmed by a fireplace slightly overscaled to fit the room's dimensions, it's a comfortable, informal room. A covered front porch offers dry storage for firewood. Faced with lattice panels, it also screens the bedroom wing from the street. The living room, dining room, and sunroom open through French doors to a protected deck. Open to the sky but enclosed by lattice, it forms a "winter garden" that can be used for container-grown plants. For convenience, the master bedroom is located on the main floor. A small room with fireplace, bookcases, and a window seat provides a sitting area. A French Country House was designed by Phillip Franks of Birmingham. more

This story-and-a-half house with a full basement has enough style and flexibility to fit comfortably into a variety of settings. A Friendly Retreat can work as a first or retirement home, as well as a lake or mountain house. It is ideal for sloping lots. Plans include details for a basement foundation with an additional 1,400 square feet of living space that comprises a bedroom, bath, and play area. Designed by Frederick Spitzmiller and Robert Norris of Atlanta, the exterior features a charming combination of fieldstone and board-and-batten siding. Tall, gabled rooflines provide generous space for vaulted rooms inside. more

Just imagine retreating to the deep porches of our Brook Hollow. From its classically detailed center gable to the stucco-and-stone Georgian styling, the exterior design exemplifies an elegant yet simple lifestyle. And best of all, this floor plan is suited to meet the needs of a growing family. Designed by Stephen Fuller, Inc., of Atlanta, the home combines a classic, good-looking exterior with spacious, livable interiors. more

• Designed by Brian Barks of Southern Avenues, Inc., in Atlanta

• Ceiling heights: 9 feet on first floor, 8 feet on second floor

• Columned entry and detailed staircase grace the front entrance.

• Cozy breakfast room features outdoor access, wall of windows, and optional fireplace.

• Family room includes columned entry, two-story ceiling, fireplace, and outdoor access.

• A tray ceiling accents the master bedroom.

• Two secondary bedrooms on the right side of the house have ample closet space and an adjoining bath.

• Optional second floor could include an additional bedroom, bath, and home office or media room. more