Description
The Murdoch House Plan: Modern Living Meets Classic Italianate Charm
The Murdoch house plan is a masterfully crafted Italianate home design that seamlessly blends 19th-century architectural elegance with the functional demands of modern living. Spanning two well-appointed levels, this design emphasizes verticality, open-concept communal spaces, and a clear separation between private and public spheres, all while maintaining the hallmark symmetrical balance of its historic inspiration.
Main Level: Grandeur and Connectivity
The journey begins at the C. Prch (Covered Porch), a sprawling outdoor transition space that leads into a welcoming Foyer/Hall. To the immediate right, the Study (16′-0″ x 11′-6″) provides a secluded environment for a home office or library, distinguished by its double-door entry. Across the hall, the formal Dining Room (18′-0″ x 11′-6″) is defined by elegant structural columns, offering a sophisticated venue for hosting without closing off the home’s natural flow.
The heart of the Murdoch is found in the expansive, open-concept rear section. The Family Room (23′-2″ x 15′-0″) serves as the primary gathering hub, anchored by a fireplace and large windows that invite natural light. It flows effortlessly into the Breakfast (Brkfst) area and a high-end Kitchen (Kit). The kitchen is designed for efficiency and social interaction, featuring a central island, a dedicated pantry, and a strategic view of the entire living area.
Practicality is tucked away in the transition to the 2-Car Garage (23′-5″ x 21′-5″). A highly functional Mudroom (MudRm) acts as a buffer zone, complete with a bench, coat storage, and an adjacent Stor. (Storage) closet and Stoop, ensuring the main living areas remain clutter-free.
Upper Level: Private Sanctuaries
The second floor is dedicated to rest and utility, organized around a central landing. The Master Suite (M. Bed) is a true retreat, measuring a generous 15′-0″ x 17′-6″. It features a luxurious M. Bath equipped with a soaking tub, separate shower, dual vanities, and a private water closet, leading into a spacious W.I.C. (Walk-in Closet).
Three additional bedrooms provide ample space for family or guests:
- Bed 2, Bed 3, and Bed 4 are uniformly sized at 11′-6″ x 11′-7″, each boasting its own W.I.C. for superior storage.
- A central bathroom with a dual-sink vanity serves these bedrooms, while a hallway Linen closet adds further utility.
- The Ldry (Laundry Room) is conveniently located on this level, eliminating the need to carry linens between floors.
A charming Win Seat (Window Seat) at the end of the hallway provides a quiet nook for reading, perfectly capturing the Italianate emphasis on light and leisure.
The Murdoch house plan is more than just a house; it is a thoughtful layout that honors the tradition of the Italianate villa while prioritizing the “flow” required by the contemporary family. From the grand porch to the private window seat, every square foot is designed with both purpose and poise.













