Explore the Helmsdale Model: Ranch-Style Living with Room to Expand

The Helmsdale Model is a modern ranch-style home plan designed for homeowners who value simplicity, elegance, and the comfort of single-level living. With just one main floor plus a fully finished lower level, this home lives large while keeping everything you need on the first floor.

Whether you’re downsizing, aging in place, or simply prefer the ease of no stairs, the Helmsdale offers smart design, luxurious finishes, and generous flexibility—all wrapped in a timeless, low-profile exterior.

Designed for Effortless Living

• Main-level living with no stairs required for daily routines
• Wide, open layout ideal for aging in place or mobility needs
• Finished basement adds space for guests, hobbies, or a home gym
• Perfect for downsizing without sacrificing comfort or quality

Architectural Charm with a Clean, Modern Look

The Helmsdale’s architecture blends classic ranch styling with modern curb appeal. The exterior features:

• A low-pitched hip roof for architectural elegance
• A wide entry stoop and large double-door front entrance
• A side-load garage in this rendering—easily reconfigured to a front-load garage depending on lot conditions (25’ turning radius needed for side-load)

This plan is ideal for wider teardown lots, but can easily be adapted for interior or narrow lots in Bethesda, McLean, Arlington, Falls Church, NW DC, Vienna or Chevy Chase.

Main-Level Living with Custom Comfort

At the heart of the Helmsdale Model is its expansive, open-concept main level, offering just over 2,200 square feet of efficient yet spacious living.

• Bright, wide-entry foyer with double doors
• Private powder room and oversized coat closet
• Formal dining room with natural light and optional glass pocket doors
• Dedicated laundry room and a home office or study
• Secluded primary suite featuring:
  • Spacious bed wall and oversized windows
  • Large bathroom with dual sinks, soaking tub, walk-in shower, and private water closet
  • Walk-in closet with ample storage

The Great Room: Where Life Happens

At the center of the home is a dramatic vaulted-ceiling great room, perfect for gatherings and everyday living.

• Fireplace wall with optional built-ins or TV mount
• Optional screened porch extending from the dining or great room
• Massive island kitchen with base and wall cabinets
• Flexible space for a breakfast nook or formal dining
• Ceiling pop-ups and architectural accents for added depth and character

Natural light pours in from the back of the home, with glass doors and tall windows anchoring the living space.

Fully Finished Lower Level = Double the Livable Space

The Helmsdale includes a fully finished basement that mirrors the first floor—adding another 2,200 square feet of comfortable, usable space.

• Two large bedrooms or flex rooms (offices, gym, hobby rooms)
• Shared full bathroom
• Massive recreation room for entertainment, media, or play
• Optional spaces for a movie room, wine cellar, craft room, or wet bar

This lower level is perfect for multigenerational living, guests, or anyone needing room to spread out.

Helmsdale Model – Quick Facts

• Main Level: 2,200 sq. ft.
• Lower Level: 2,200 sq. ft. (finished)
• Garage: Side-load or front-load, based on lot layout
• Bedrooms: 3 to 5+ (depending on configuration)
• Bathrooms: 2.5 to 4+
• Perfect For: Ranch-style living, downsizing, aging in place, wide teardown lots

Why Homeowners Love the Helmsdale

• Single-level living with no stairs required for daily use
• Modern ranch styling that works on interior and corner lots
• Private suite separation for peace and quiet
• Fully finished basement for future needs or entertaining
• Teardown-friendly design for premium neighborhoods in DC Metro

Top Neighborhoods for Custom Builds

See the Helmsdale in Action

📹 Watch the full video tour of the Helmsdale Model above

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