Shotgun Style House Floor Plan : Gallery House Plans

Shotgun Style House Floor Plan: A Historical and Practical Design

The shotgun style house floor plan is a unique and historic architectural style that originated in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the late 19th century. These homes are characterized by their narrow, rectangular shape and their central hallway that runs the entire length of the house, with rooms opening off to either side. The shotgun style was popularized in the working-class neighborhoods of New Orleans and other cities in the American South, and it remains a popular choice for homeowners today.

There are many advantages to the shotgun style floor plan. First, it is a very efficient use of space. The long, narrow shape of the house means that there is no wasted space, and every room is accessible from the central hallway. Second, the shotgun style is a very functional floor plan. The central hallway provides easy access to all of the rooms in the house, and the open floor plan allows for a variety of different furniture arrangements.

Finally, the shotgun style is a very affordable floor plan. The simple design and efficient use of space make these homes relatively inexpensive to build and maintain. As a result, shotgun style houses are a great option for first-time homebuyers or those on a budget.

Of course, there are also some disadvantages to the shotgun style floor plan. One disadvantage is that these homes can be quite noisy. The central hallway amplifies sound, so it can be difficult to have privacy in the bedrooms or other rooms off the hallway. Another disadvantage is that shotgun style homes can be difficult to cool and heat. The long, narrow shape of the house means that it can be difficult to circulate air throughout the home.

Overall, the shotgun style house floor plan is a unique and historic design that offers many advantages. These homes are efficient, functional, and affordable, making them a great option for homeowners of all ages and budgets. However, it is important to be aware of the potential disadvantages of this floor plan before making a decision.

Typical Features of a Shotgun Style House Floor Plan

Shotgun style houses typically have the following features:

A narrow, rectangular shape
A central hallway that runs the entire length of the house
Rooms that open off to either side of the hallway
A front porch
A rear porch

The number of rooms in a shotgun style house can vary, but most homes have at least three bedrooms and one bathroom. The front porch is often used as a sitting area, while the rear porch is often used for cooking and dining. Shotgun style houses are typically one story, but some homes have a second story.

Variations on the Shotgun Style Floor Plan

There are many variations on the shotgun style floor plan. Some homes have a side hall that runs perpendicular to the central hallway, while others have a dogtrot, which is a covered walkway that connects the front and rear porches.

Some shotgun style homes also have a shotgun addition, which is a wing that is added to the rear of the house. Shotgun additions can be used to add additional bedrooms, bathrooms, or other living space.

The shotgun style floor plan is a versatile and adaptable design that can be customized to meet the needs of any homeowner. Whether you are looking for a small, affordable home or a large, spacious home, the shotgun style floor plan is a great option to consider.