How to Customize 2 Story House Plans with a 3D Home Design Planner?

For a house to feel like a home, it must reflect the lifestyle and preferences of the homeowner. And for a family, this can require diligent input to create a diverse layout with shared spaces to supervise the kids, while having enough privacy for the adults. At the same time, personal styles need to be included that work for both parents and children.

Traditionally, architects, designers and builders would rely on 2D sketches or blueprints to plan and visualize the layout of a house. However, with the advent of modern technology, 3D floor planners have emerged as powerful tools that are revolutionizing the way we design and build homes.

3D imagery now allows us to better portray comprehensive plans for the structure, interior and even exterior designs, enabling homeowners to see what they can expect before bringing it to life.

They can also add their input to make changes before any work begins, saving time and money. Below, we explore the benefits of using a 3D floor planner to build 2 story house plans and how it can help homeowners and designers alike to create a more efficient, practical, and aesthetically pleasing home.

How to Create Two Story House Plans in 3D?

Drafting complex, two story house plans is a breeze when you can avail of 3D software to support and illustrate your plans. Get started with this guide that shows the general steps to follow.

Step 1. Sign Up and Start a New Project

• The first step is to sign up to use the 3D floor planner and start a new project.
• Sign up for free, and once you’ve created an account, you can begin by clicking on the “Start New Project” button.

Step 2. Set the Dimensions

• Before you start designing, it’s important to set the dimensions of the property. Take measurements or have them accessible to edit as you build out the floor plan.
• Click the Measurement tab at any point to set the corresponding dimensions.
• To upload an existing floor plan, click the “Ground Floor” tab and select “Upload an Existing Floor Plan”

Step 3. Design the First Floor

• Begin designing the first floor of the house by dragging walls, doors, and windows onto the floor plan to create each room and other key areas within the layout.
• Use the toolbar on the top left corner to select “Add Walls” or “Add Rooms” to build it out as you want. Use the Measurement tool to double check that everything is to scale with accurate sizing.
• You can also customize the materials and colors of the walls, floors, and ceilings.
• Add furnishings and decorations by using the “Furnish” and “Decorate” tabs.

Step 4. Add Stairs and the Upper Level

• To create another floor above the main level, you’ll need to first add the stairs. Click on the “Build” button and select the type of stairs you want to use. Drag and drop the staircase onto the floor plan and adjust the size and position.
• Then build the upstairs space by clicking the “Ground Floor” tab on top of the toolbar.
• Click “Add a Floor” and select “First Floor” to create another level above the ground floor.

Step 5. Design the Second Story

• Once you’ve added stairs, start designing the second story. Use the same tools and techniques used to design the first floor to create rooms and spaces on the upper level.
• Remember to refer to the Measurement tool to make adjustments.

Step 6. Check Your Work

• When the 2 story house plan is complete or almost, it’s a good idea to review and check the design you’ve created. Use the “3D View” feature or hit the Footprints tab to take a virtual walkthrough of the house and make changes if they are required.

Step 7. Edit, Save HD/4K Images and Share

• Use the Studio Photo tool to make changes to the ambiance of the 3D rendering. Pick the time of day and appropriate light settings to present the design in the best way.
• Once you’re happy with the design, use the floor planner’s collaboration tools to invite others to view and edit the design.
• Save and print HD images with panoramic viewpoints to capture the details so it can be replicated and streamlined once construction begins.

5 Tips for Building House Plans 2 Story Layouts

Designing a 2 story house requires attention to detail so the final product is functional and visually appealing. Here are some pro tips to keep in mind when drafting house plans for 2 story properties.

Consider the Flow of Space

When designing, it’s important to think about the flow of the space as a whole. Make sure that there is a logical progression from one area to another with clear walkways, and that the spaces are arranged in a way that makes sense for the natural flow of foot traffic.

Plan for Easy Vertical Movement

One of the biggest challenges of designing a 2 story house is ensuring that it is easy and convenient to move between floors. Plan for the location of the stairs carefully, and make sure that they are easily accessible from all areas of the house.

Focus on Natural Light

Natural light is essential in any home, and it’s especially important in a 2 story house. Carefully consider the placement of windows and doors so that each room has access to natural light.

Think Ahead to Accommodate Future Needs

Always think and plan ahead when developing a house plan. Whether it’s your own home or a custom design for homeowners, keep in mind how their needs may change over time and plan for flexibility to help accommodate those potential needs when they arise.

Don’t Forget About Storage

Having ample storage is another key component for homeowners today as the average size of houses continues to decrease. Try to incorporate smart storage solutions such as shelving units or cupboards embedded under staircases.

3 Common House Plans for 2 Story Layouts

Gather inspiration for house plans for 2 story layouts from these common floor plans that can accommodate multiple needs and styles.

Traditional 2 Story Layout

The traditional floor plan is a classic layout for 2 story homes. It typically includes a formal living room and dining room, a spacious kitchen, a family room, and a half bath on the first floor.

Upstairs, you will find the bedrooms, bathrooms, including a master suite with an ensuite bathroom, and walk-in closet. It’s a fail-safe floor plan that can be a favorable option for larger families with older children since it offers more privacy throughout the home.

Open Concept 2 Story Layout

The open concept floor plan has become increasingly popular in recent years for its suitability and brightness. It usually features a large, open space that combines the kitchen, living room, and dining room into one cohesive area.

This design promotes socialization and makes it easier for entertaining guests. Upstairs is also reserved for the bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as a bonus room or loft that can be used as an additional living space.

This type of layout can be ideal for couples who like to host guests often or for smaller families with young and older children.

Modern 2 Story Layout

The modern floor plan is characterized by clean lines, simple shapes, and minimalist design elements. It typically boasts an open concept living area, with a kitchen, dining room, and living room that flow seamlessly into each other.

The bedrooms are usually located on the second floor, along with a master suite that attaches to an ensuite. This design often incorporates large windows and skylights to let in natural light and create an airy feel throughout. It can be best suited to empty nesters and young professionals.

HomeByMe is a cutting-edge, online tool that designers, builders, and homeowners can use to make floor plans and intricate designs.

With its user-friendly interface, 3D rendering capabilities, and extensive library of furniture and decor, HomeByMe allows users to visualize and experiment with tonnes of ideas, layouts, and interior design styles.

By using this tool, you can save time, money, and effort in the design process, ensuring clients are happy with the projected outcome of their future home prior to building. Sign up for free today!