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Taking off in 1840 as “Federal” style faded into the background, the Italianate Style – with its decorative brackets and square towers – became the most popular architectural design in the U.S. until 1885. The style was primarily seen in grand country mansions and urban townhouses around the U.S.

With so many of us working from home, we thought we would take this time to virtually catch up with our expert house designers. Our first one-on-one interview is with Sam Morgan, a certified professional building designer (CPBD/AIBD CGP/NAHB), from SW Morgan Fine Home Design. Sam answers our customers’ most common questions about house plans and home construction. We also learn a bit more about what makes Sam’s home plans so popular.

Designing a loft space can be really tricky, as every square inch needs to have a purpose. To be successful, you need to plan ahead. With the right end goal in mind, you’ll be able to achieve a functional space that’s also very livable. Here’s how to do it.

The coronavirus (COVID-19) has affected hundreds of thousands throughout the world. However we, as a nation, are not ones to sit around feeling helpless. When crises and emergencies arise, including pandemics, we respond by doing what we do best, helping each other. The Plan Collection and its associates, along with many other companies, are doing what they can to assist those in need.

With a description like “Zero Energy Home,” can such a house’s design be exciting and attractive? The answer is yes. It’s rapidly rising in popularity because of the super-efficiency, green footprint, comfort, security, and healthy environment that it provides for families – and it can come in every size and architectural style.

Described as a “triumph of simplicity and classically refined ornament,” the Federal style was influenced by Robert Adam, the British architect who was inspired by ancient Greek and Roman forms. Considered America’s first national style, Federal architecture dominated the landscape from 1780 to 1840, an exciting time when the fledging American Republic was forging its identity.

Buildings should look to the nature that surrounds them and partner with it, enhance it, in order to create spaces for human dwelling. Or so said American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. His Organic Architecture movement was (and is) all about combining form and function to create harmonious homes.

Just as stunning as the homes of the wealthy in the Hamptons, Cape Cod, and Martha’s Vineyard, the 19th century Great Camps of upstate New York are spectacular sprawling family cabins built in the rustic and primitive-looking design of Adirondack Architecture. We explore their elements, characteristics, and origins.

Virginia is a special state in that it’s one of the 13 original colonies – and it’s at the crossroads of the North and South in terms of culture, history, and architecture. The types of homes available in the state are extremely varied in design, as might be expected. We take a look.

With its pure symmetry, order, simplicity, and balance, Neoclassical architecture struck a chord among mid-18th century U.S. architects and designers who were looking for an alternative to the Baroque and Rococo styles. Here’s a close look at the style and its impact on early and contemporary American architecture.