Dogtrot Houses: A Basic History Originally emerging from the design of one-story log cabins, dogtrot houses get their moniker from the design’s “dogtrot”, which is a central, open-air breezeway that effectively allows for natural ventilation while dividing the structure into two separate living spaces. This gem of American architecture is particularly influential in the warmer climates of the American South, as the open space in the breezeway capitalizes on the porch's exposure to prevailing breezes in order to harness the power of nature for comfort (reducing the need for artificial air conditioning) while also serving as a communal area.  Our Design Featuring an open breezeway, modern living comforts, contemporary aesthetics, and a porch on one side, our dogtrot floor plan caters to diverse needs and preferences while paying homage to this iconic example of architectural tradition.  Floor Plan Our dogtrot floor plan divides the house into two distinct parts— the main house, and an outdoor, covered patio dogtrot (which we designed into a dining room), with the option of adding a third— an extension, whose use is adaptable. The main features of our dogtrot house floor plan begin with a luxurious master suite at the far end of the building, complete with a spacious walk-in closet and a well-appointed bathroom.  A continuous living and dining space culminates in a u-shaped kitchen (equipped with all the modern amenities) which is a chef’s dream, while the pantry provides ample storage for your culinary essentials. An adjacent office (which can be converted into an additional bedroom), features its own bathroom for added convenience. The breezeway deck serves multiple purposes— as entryway, garage or guest suite access, or as a serene dining room,  allowing you to savor the outdoors while staying sheltered from the elements. The decking extends from the front of the house to the back, seamlessly connecting both spaces.  Additionally, you have the option to add an extension to the floorplan: Extensions A Garage is ideal for vehicle storage or extra space for hobbies and projects. The garage is attached to the house through the breezeway, providing easy access and added security. Or A Guest Suite, which swaps out the garage for a cozy guest suite, including a fully functional one-bedroom layout with a kitchen, bathroom, and its own living area. Ideal for hosting friends and family, the added guest suite of this dogtrot floor plan ensures a guest’s comfort and privacy while offering the convenience of two separate living areas, enhancing the overall versatility of the space. Interior Natural light floods the interior of this dogtrot house through the sliding glass doors in the dining and living rooms on the southern facade. The master suite offers breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty through its own floor-to-ceiling windows in the east and south. The connected living, dining, and kitchen great room allows couples, families, hosts and guests to communicate throughout the central space. The office space is set to the side of the living room, allowing the owner to work while keeping an eye on the rest of the house. The vaulted ceiling adds an airy and spacious feel to the interior, granting a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Highly customizable, our dogtrot floor plan allows you to create a space that reflects your style. We recommend lighter tones to enhance the house’s sense of cleanliness and space.  Exterior Whether placed in a rural or urban setting, this dogtrot house design seamlessly blends with its surroundings. The sleek, standing metal-seam roofing and siding combine with the natural wood textures on the decking, entryway, and breezeway to exude a modern yet welcoming charm. In warm climates, the wide doors of the dogtrot style provide cross ventilation to keep the house cool. In the winter, the functional design of the dogtrot home keeps the site insulated and warm. The exterior design is a testament to timeless elegance and versatility. Maybe you’re a young couple looking to host in-laws and friends while having easy access to the kitchen and central breezeway; maybe you’re a retired couple looking for space to host their family in the living room while working in the office; maybe you’re a new landlord looking to lease out their first property while living nearby, or maybe you’re a bachelor/bachelorette looking for their perfect place to work from home while remaining in nature. No matter what you are, here, your dream home awaits— where luxury, functionality, and style come together to create an extraordinary living space. Ground floor area: 1,327 sqftGarage/ADU area: 548 sqft Total: 101' L x 24' -8" W x 20'-4" HMain House: 57'-8" L x 24'-8" W x 20'-4" H Garage/ ADU: 24' L x 24'-8" W x 20'-4" H Bedroom 1: 13'-3" L x 13'-9" WBedroom 2/ Office: 13'-4" L x 9'-8" WBedroom (ADU): 10'-7" L x 13'-5" W Living room: 15'-6" L x 13'-9" W Dining room: 13'-2" L x 15'-11" W Kitchen: 9'-5" L x 16'-5" W Living room deck size: 102"-4" L x 6' W Bathroom 1: 5'-6" L x 9'-8" W Bathroom 2: 8'-5" L x 9'-8" W Utilities: 4'-9" L x 8' W HVAC system: Mini-split, HRV, ERV