By: Compact Living & Architecture Desk

This 26′ × 30′, two-storey home is a simple yet elegant design for small families who want functionality without excess. Built on a 30′ × 40′ plot, it includes 2 bedrooms, a dedicated shrine room, and even a car garage — all while leaving room for ventilation and natural light.

The design also incorporates vertical timber cladding accents for aesthetics, a water tank on the roof, and a fenced compound for security.

Quick Specs

• Plot size: 30′ × 40′ (1,200 sq. ft. site)
• Building footprint: 26′ × 30′
• Total floors: 2 + roof service floor
• Bedrooms: 2
• Special spaces: Shrine room, car room, veranda
• Parking: 1 car
• Water storage: Overhead tank on roof floor

Design Philosophy

The plan emphasizes:

• Compact zoning: Every room has a purpose; there’s no wasted corridor space.
• Vertical separation: Public/social areas on the ground floor, private sleeping areas upstairs.
• Cultural sensitivity: Inclusion of a dedicated shrine room.
• Cost efficiency: Simple rectangular footprint reduces structural complexity.

Step-by-Step Layout Tour

1) Ground Floor (Plan 7)

This floor is the social and service hub:

• Veranda (VER): Acts as a welcoming porch, shaded and ideal for potted plants.
• Living Room: Positioned at the entrance for easy guest reception.
• Car Room: Secure parking for a single vehicle, directly accessible from the gate.
• Kitchen & Dining: Located at the rear, ensuring privacy and easy serving.
• W.C.: Conveniently placed for both residents and guests.

Practical Note: Kitchen and living areas are separated by the car room, minimizing cooking smells in the sitting area.

2) First Floor (Plan 8)

This is the private family zone:

• Two Bedrooms:
  • Both bedrooms are nearly equal in size for fairness and comfort.
  • Each has attached W.C. for privacy.
• Shrine Room: Dedicated spiritual space, facing the veranda for light and ventilation.
• Veranda: Adds a relaxing open-air retreat on the upper level.

Cultural Note: Positioning the shrine room in a well-lit and ventilated area aligns with traditional design principles.

3) Roof Floor (Plan 9)

This level is purely functional:

• Water Tank: Ensures gravity-fed water supply to the entire house.
• Roof Floor Space: Could be used for laundry drying or occasional gatherings.

Exterior & Aesthetic Features

• Vertical Timber Cladding: Adds warmth and texture to the modern façade.
• Pedestrian & Vehicle Gates: Separate entrances for ease of access.
• Balcony Planters: Greenery adds a natural, welcoming touch.
• Flat Roof: Allows for easy maintenance and potential solar panel installation.

Advantages

1. Low Construction Cost: Compact footprint reduces material needs.
2. Easy Maintenance: Fewer rooms mean lower upkeep costs.
3. Perfect for Small Families: Enough space for 3–4 people comfortably.
4. Secure & Private: Bedrooms are isolated from street-level noise.
5. Culturally Friendly: Built-in shrine room for daily rituals.

Possible Improvements

• Add solar panels on the roof to reduce electricity costs.
• Install storage cabinets under the staircase to maximize space.
• Use sliding doors for the shrine room to save on swing space.
• Incorporate rainwater harvesting alongside the water tank.

Bottom Line

This 26′ × 30′, two-storey design is a no-nonsense, budget-friendly home plan that still offers all the essentials: parking, 2 private bedrooms, a shrine room, and functional living space. It’s ideal for small urban families who value simplicity, security, and a touch of greenery.