This classic 20' wide farm house style home is built with simple platform frame construction on your choice of nine different foundation types to adapt to your specific soils, budget and site. The home feels spacious and open but is efficient with it's use of space.

This plan has three bedrooms and three bathrooms, a utility hall and a full sized wrap around stair. The stair can go down to a basement or on up to the attic should you need to expand up there in the future. Because of the simple framing system much of the interior layout can be modified by the owner or builder. Click the images below for stories from owners that have sent photos into the Owner-builder Gallery.

Version of the Universal Cottage with basement and side addition.


Universal Cottage with side porch (included in plans)

With pier foundation and living attic

20 x 24 shortened version of Universal w/ screen porch

The Universal Cottage is a good starting platform for your own custom home building project. Additional wings can be added in the future and the plans include some options you might choose to build now such as an add-on window seat and wrap around porch.

The 16 page plan set includes all the drawings and information normally needed by builders and the building department:

• Full structural floor plans (main, upper and basement).
• Full foundation plans and details for a basement, crawlspace, slab, or beam and pier (post & beam) foundation.
• Structural cross section with basement, crawlspace, slab and pier and beam foundation options.
• Roof and attic framing plans and details for both truss and rafter & joist framing.
• Optional truss diagrams for flat or cathedral ceiling in the upper story.
• Basement plans with details for your choice of poured concrete, concrete block or the stud and plywood All weather wood foundation system.
• Foundation details for two types of concrete slab on grade floors and two types of pier and beam systems.
• Framing plans for floors using both I-joists for full width spans, or 2x8 joists and an exposed interior beam and post support system.
• Porch framing plans and details for the shed roof porch in the photo, plus a extendable wrap around porch that can run down either side.
• Four elevations including trim and siding details
• Electrical plans and plumbing layout notes
• A bonus sheet with complete plans and details for a pop-out bed and sitting alcove that can be added to any outside wall (it needs no foundation).
  

Also included in the set is a booklet of helpful planning information and construction details including:

• Superinsulation techniques for cold climates (a detail you add to your plans)
• Hot water and heating system design notes
• A checklist and tips for going to the building department
• A diagram and glossary of standard building terms
• How to Read Plans
• Trim, Siding and Money Saving Ideas.