The dream of a perfect home often begins with a single image. For many, that vision is a one-story house, a design that embodies accessibility, efficiency, and a seamless connection to the land. But a single-level home is more than just a practical choice; it’s a canvas for architectural beauty, from the sweeping lines of a Modern Ranch to the handcrafted charm of a Craftsman Bungalow.

At South Eastern General Contractors (SEGC), we’ve spent over 21 years turning these visions into legacies for families across North Carolina, especially in our Fayetteville and Lumberton communities. As a Native American-owned, 8(a), and HUBZone certified firm, we don't just build houses; we build trust and lasting relationships. This guide showcases stunning one story house designs pictures and provides actionable insights you can use to choose the right style for your legacy home.

We'll break down the pros, cons, and key features of each design, infused with the hands-on knowledge gained from over two decades of building high-quality custom homes. To truly build a legacy with your home, it's beneficial to keep an eye on upcoming home design trends for 2025, ensuring your chosen design remains fresh and functional for years to come. Let's explore the possibilities.

1. Modern Ranch Style House

The Modern Ranch isn't your grandma's rambler. It takes the classic, low-slung profile and single-level convenience of mid-century ranch homes and injects it with a dose of sleek, contemporary flair. Think clean lines, massive panes of glass, and wide-open floor plans that blur the line between indoors and out. This style is a superstar in the world of one story house designs pictures because it perfectly marries nostalgic comfort with modern luxury.

The Allure of Horizontal Living

At its core, the Modern Ranch champions horizontal living. By ditching the stairs and embracing a sprawling footprint, these homes create an effortless flow from room to room. Legendary architects like Richard Neutra and developers like Joseph Eichler popularized this concept in California, creating iconic homes that felt spacious, light-filled, and deeply connected to the landscape. Today, this style is experiencing a massive resurgence.

SEGC Insight: We've seen a huge demand for the Modern Ranch style from families and retirees moving to the Fayetteville area. As local leaders with 21+ years of proven results, we understand what works in this climate. Our design-build approach for these projects focuses on creating functional, open spaces that maximize natural light and truly extend living areas into the outdoors, building a home that is both beautiful and practical.

Key Design Elements & Actionable Tips

To achieve the Modern Ranch look, focus on a few key strategies:

• Embrace Natural Light: Actionable Tip: Use clerestory windows high on the walls to invite sunlight in without sacrificing privacy. This is a cost-effective way to make open floor plans feel even larger.
• Define Open Spaces: Actionable Tip: In a home without many walls, use area rugs, furniture groupings, and subtle changes in ceiling height to create distinct "zones" for living, dining, and cooking.
• Extend Your Living Area: Actionable Tip: A covered patio or lanai with comfortable seating and an outdoor kitchen becomes a natural extension of your indoor great room, adding valuable living space.

This summary box highlights the key considerations when planning for a Modern Ranch home.

As the data shows, this style requires a larger lot and can have a higher initial cost, but the payoff is a highly accessible and energy-efficient home built for the long haul.

2. Traditional Ranch House

The Traditional Ranch is the quintessential American family home, an architectural icon born from post-WWII optimism. This style defined suburban landscapes from the 1940s through the 1960s with its signature long, low-slung profile, simple gabled roofs, and an attached garage. It's the dependable, no-fuss star of one story house designs pictures, prioritizing practicality and comfortable family living over ornate architectural statements.

The Allure of Practical Simplicity

At its heart, the Traditional Ranch is all about straightforward, accessible living. Pioneering architects like Cliff May designed these homes to be informal and connected to the outdoors, while developers like William Levitt perfected their mass production for booming suburbs. The result was a home that was easy to build, easy to maintain, and perfect for the everyday life of a growing family.

SEGC Insight: The enduring appeal of the Traditional Ranch in communities like Lumberton is its rock-solid foundation for modern living. We often work with clients who want to renovate these classic homes. Our focus, grounded in a commitment to quality, is on maintaining the home's original character while creating more open, functional spaces that meet the needs of a modern family, ensuring the structure’s legacy continues.

Key Design Elements & Actionable Tips

To honor the classic Ranch while giving it a fresh feel, focus on these key strategies:

• Soften the Lines: Actionable Tip: Use strategic landscaping with layered garden beds and curving pathways to break up the long, straight exterior facade. This adds curb appeal without a major renovation.
• Brighten the Interior: Actionable Tip: Add dormers or skylights to bring much-needed natural light into the deeper parts of the home's footprint, transforming dark hallways or central rooms.
• Create Open Flow: Actionable Tip: Consider removing non-load-bearing walls between the kitchen, dining, and living areas to create the open-concept feel that modern buyers crave. Always consult a professional first.

This style provides a fantastic canvas for personalization. Its single-level layout makes it an ideal choice for homeowners at any stage of life, from young families to retirees seeking an accessible and manageable living space.

3. Craftsman Bungalow

The Craftsman Bungalow is the quintessential cozy American home. It's a style that celebrates artistry and honest materials, rejecting mass production for handcrafted detail. Born from the Arts and Crafts movement in the early 1900s, this design emphasizes a deep connection to nature with its use of wood, stone, and earth-toned colors. These homes are a standout in galleries of one story house designs pictures for their unmistakable charm and sturdy construction.

The Allure of Handcrafted Charm

At its heart, the Craftsman Bungalow is a tribute to skilled workmanship. Pioneered by architects like Greene & Greene and popularized by Gustav Stickley, this style features distinctive low-pitched roofs, wide front porches with tapered columns, and exposed rafters under deep eaves. The interiors are just as detailed, often showcasing built-in cabinetry and cozy breakfast nooks.

SEGC Insight: The Craftsman style resonates deeply with our clients in Lumberton and Fayetteville who value heritage and quality. As a Native American-owned and HUBZone certified firm, we understand the importance of building with integrity and purpose. We bring that same ethos to our Craftsman projects, focusing on authentic materials and meticulous detailing that ensure these homes are not just structures, but true family legacies.

Key Design Elements & Actionable Tips

To capture the authentic Craftsman spirit, concentrate on these core components:

• Embrace Natural Materials: Actionable Tip: Use genuine wood for trim, cabinetry, and flooring. Incorporate stone or brick for fireplace surrounds and porch supports to add texture and warmth.
• Highlight Structural Elements: Actionable Tip: Don't hide the beautiful bones of the house. Exposed ceiling beams, rafters, and handcrafted joinery should be celebrated as key decorative features.
• Preserve and Replicate Built-Ins: Actionable Tip: If renovating, protect original built-in furniture. If building new, include custom nooks, window seats, and shelving to maximize space and add historic character. Many design principles from this style can also be adapted for small mountain home designs.

4. Mediterranean/Spanish Colonial Revival

Get ready to be transported to a sun-drenched European villa. The Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival styles bring Old World romance to one-story living. Characterized by low-pitched red tile roofs, brilliant white stucco walls, and arched entryways, these homes are a feast for the eyes. This style is a constant favorite when browsing one story house designs pictures, especially for those who crave a seamless blend of indoor elegance and outdoor serenity.

The Allure of Courtyard Living

At the heart of this architectural style is the courtyard, or patio. Architects like Addison Mizner and Bertram Goodhue popularized this concept in the early 20th century, designing homes that turned inward, creating private, tranquil outdoor rooms. This layout fosters an intimate connection with nature while providing a cool, shaded retreat from the sun.

SEGC Insight: While we are renowned for classic American designs, the principles of Mediterranean architecture resonate strongly in North Carolina. The focus on durable materials and functional outdoor living spaces are concepts we apply across many styles. Whether it’s a sprawling courtyard or a perfectly designed covered patio, our 21+ years of experience in the Fayetteville climate helps clients build homes that embrace outdoor living.

Key Design Elements & Actionable Tips

To capture the essence of a Mediterranean or Spanish Revival home, concentrate on these timeless features:

• Embrace Authentic Materials: Actionable Tip: Use genuine red clay roof tiles, textured stucco, and wrought iron for details like gates and window grilles. Understanding the pros and cons of different materials is crucial; you can explore more about durable building materials like brick to make an informed choice.
• Design the Courtyard as a Room: Actionable Tip: Treat your central courtyard as a primary living space. Incorporate a water feature for its cooling effect and use comfortable, durable outdoor furniture to create an inviting oasis.
• Incorporate Arches and Curves: Actionable Tip: Soften the home’s profile with graceful arches over doorways, windows, and covered walkways (loggias) to create an authentic, romantic feel.

5. Contemporary Farmhouse

The Contemporary Farmhouse takes the nostalgic comfort of a classic rural home and gives it a sophisticated, modern makeover. This style blends rustic charm with clean lines, neutral color palettes, and expansive windows, creating spaces that feel both cozy and bright. It has exploded in popularity and is a dominant force in the search for one story house designs pictures due to its inviting yet elegant aesthetic.

The Allure of Modern Rustic Living

At its heart, the Contemporary Farmhouse is about balance. It honors traditional forms like gabled roofs and board-and-batten siding but pairs them with modern elements like black-framed windows, open-concept interiors, and sleek metal accents. This blend creates a timeless feel that's perfect for a single-level layout, offering wide-open living areas ideal for family gatherings.

SEGC Insight: The Contemporary Farmhouse is one of our most requested styles in the Fayetteville and Lumberton areas. As an 8(a)-certified and Native American-owned firm, we focus on building homes that last for generations. For our farmhouse projects, we emphasize using high-quality, durable materials that deliver the authentic look while ensuring the home is low-maintenance and built to our exacting standards of quality and trust.

Key Design Elements & Actionable Tips

To master the Contemporary Farmhouse style, focus on these key strategies:

• Mix Your Materials: Actionable Tip: Combine rustic wood beams or a shiplap accent wall with smooth, modern surfaces like quartz countertops and minimalist cabinetry. This contrast is the cornerstone of the style.
• Embrace a Neutral Palette: Actionable Tip: Start with a base of whites, grays, and blacks. Use natural wood tones and touches of matte black hardware to add warmth and definition to the space.
• Prioritize a Functional Kitchen: Actionable Tip: The kitchen is the heart of a farmhouse. Design a large island for gathering, use simple shaker-style cabinets, and include practical features like a classic apron-front sink.

This approach ensures a home that is both beautiful and perfectly suited for modern life. If you're inspired by this style, you can explore more Contemporary Farmhouse custom home design ideas to gather inspiration for your own project.

6. Mid-Century Modern

The Mid-Century Modern home is an icon of American optimism and architectural innovation. Born from the post-war boom, this style rejects ornamentation in favor of clean horizontal lines, expansive glass walls, and a deep, intrinsic connection to nature. It’s a perennial favorite in searches for one story house designs pictures because it masterfully combines form with function, creating spaces that are as beautiful as they are livable.

The Allure of Organic Architecture

At its heart, the Mid-Century Modern design philosophy erases the boundaries between inside and out. Architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and developers like Joseph Eichler pioneered concepts of bringing the garden into the living room. They used post-and-beam construction to open up interiors, creating flowing floor plans where living areas merged into one harmonious space. To further explore the aesthetics that define this era, check out insights on the Mid-Century Modern style.

SEGC Insight: We've had clients in the Fayetteville area ask us to integrate Mid-Century Modern principles into their custom home designs. The focus on single-level living and natural materials resonates with those who want an accessible home that feels connected to our beautiful North Carolina landscape. As a Native American-owned firm, we have a deep appreciation for designs that respect and harmonize with their environment, which is a core tenet of this style.

Key Design Elements & Actionable Tips

To capture the authentic Mid-Century Modern essence, focus on these defining features:

• Integrate with Nature: Actionable Tip: Use large, fixed-pane windows and sliding glass doors to frame views of the outdoors. Plan for a central courtyard or atrium to bring natural light and greenery into the heart of the home.
• Embrace Material Honesty: Actionable Tip: Let the materials speak for themselves. Expose wood ceiling beams, use natural stone for a fireplace feature, and keep interior details simple and uncluttered.
• Create Subtle Level Changes: Actionable Tip: While a single-story design, a few sunken steps into a living room or a slightly raised platform for a dining area can add dynamic interest and define zones without using walls.

7. Prairie Style

Born from the creative genius of Frank Lloyd Wright, the Prairie style is America’s first truly original architectural statement. It rejects fussy European conventions for long, low, horizontal lines that echo the expansive American prairie landscape. These homes are designed to be in harmony with their surroundings, featuring deep roof overhangs and ribbons of art glass windows. It's a foundational style that continues to inspire many one story house designs pictures today.

The Allure of Organic Architecture

At its heart, the Prairie style is about “organic architecture,” a philosophy championed by Wright where the building grows naturally from its site. By using local materials and emphasizing horizontal planes, these homes appear to rise from the earth. Famous examples like the Robie House showcase this principle, with open-concept interiors, central hearths, and built-in furniture that create a unified and tranquil living environment.

SEGC Insight: The principles of Prairie style—integrating a home with its natural surroundings—resonate deeply with our clients in North Carolina, from Fayetteville to Lumberton. We often draw inspiration from its use of natural materials and emphasis on craftsmanship when designing custom homes. As a Native American-owned firm with deep roots in the community, building structures that honor the land is a core part of our philosophy.

Key Design Elements & Actionable Tips

To capture the essence of the Prairie style, focus on these defining elements:

• Emphasize Horizontality: Actionable Tip: Use strong horizontal lines in landscaping, walkways, and even interior trim to mimic the low-slung profile of the house itself.
• Integrate Built-ins: Actionable Tip: Design built-in seating, shelving, and cabinetry to create a cohesive look and maximize the efficiency of the open floor plan.
• Celebrate Natural Materials: Actionable Tip: Stick to a palette of wood, stone, and brick for both the exterior and interior to create a warm, organic feel that connects the home to its site.

One-Story House Design Styles Comparison

From Pictures to Plans: Building Your Legacy with SEGC

We've journeyed through a stunning gallery of one story house designs pictures, exploring everything from the sprawling comfort of the Modern Ranch to the intricate details of the Craftsman Bungalow. Each image represents more than just architecture; it's a spark of inspiration. The key takeaway is clear: the right single-level home can perfectly match your family's needs while reflecting your personal style.

These pictures are the first, exciting step. But transforming a digital image into a physical, legacy-quality home requires a partner who understands the difference between a house and a home. It demands a team dedicated to translating your vision into a structure built with integrity, precision, and a deep commitment to excellence. For over 21 years, South Eastern General Contractors (SEGC) has been that partner for families, businesses, and government agencies throughout Fayetteville, Lumberton, and our surrounding North Carolina communities.

From Inspiration to Actionable Plans

Choosing your favorite design is one thing; navigating the complexities of construction is another. Understanding the nuances of each style is where true expertise comes in. This is where inspiration meets execution.

• Define Your Non-Negotiables: Actionable Insight: Revisit the designs you saved. Was it the indoor-outdoor connection of a Mid-Century Modern or the cozy front porch of a Craftsman? List the top three features that are essential for your lifestyle.
• Consider Your Land: Actionable Insight: The layout and orientation of your chosen design must complement your property. A design with large, south-facing windows is perfect for maximizing natural light but needs the right lot to work effectively.
• Plan the Process: Actionable Insight: Building a custom home is a significant project. Once your ideal one-story design is chosen, understanding how to plan a home renovation from start to finish is essential for bringing your vision to life and ensuring a smooth process.

As a Native American-owned, 8(a), and HUBZone certified firm, we don't just see blueprints and building materials. We see the foundation for your family’s future. We understand the unique needs of our clients, from military families relocating to the Fayetteville area to retirees seeking a low-maintenance, accessible home. Our commitment is to build a relationship of trust first, ensuring your journey from a simple picture to a finished home is transparent, collaborative, and empowering. Let's build a legacy together, not just a structure.

Ready to turn your favorite one story house designs pictures into a reality? Partner with South Eastern General Contractors, a trusted local leader with over two decades of proven results in building high-quality, legacy homes. Visit our website at South Eastern General Contractors to schedule a consultation and start building the legacy you’ve always envisioned.