The split bedroom design is a common one in ranch style homes. Though not a traditional ranch home setup, this layout option can be found on many modern home hunter's wish lists, as it has many advantages. If seeking a ranch style residence, consider this when looking for homes that fit with your lifestyle.
Definition
A split bedroom floor plan consists of a master bedroom separated from the rest of the bedrooms in the home. Most often, this means that the master bedroom will be on one side of the home while the other bedrooms rest on the other side with the two separated by the kitchen and family room. This type of setup is common among open floor plan homes where a great room has replaced the standard separated living room and family room.
Benefits
One of the most obvious benefits of this setup is the added privacy the homeowner has in his master bedroom. Because the guest or kids' rooms are on a different side of the home, the master bedroom inhabitant does not have to worry about noise or fear that others will intrude upon his space. This can be particularly advantageous if the homeowner intends to use the other bedrooms as guest space, as this allows him to give his guests privacy as well. It's also ideal if the other bedrooms will be filled by older children who want their space and autonomy.
Drawbacks
Couples with young children may not appreciate this type of floor plan, as it puts them at a distance from the children they may have to tend to in the night. While this issue can be remedied by using a baby monitor, many parents are simply not eager to take long walks across the home to see to their children and opt instead for a more centralized bedroom setup.
Considerations
Ultimately, the decision as to whether this setup is ideal requires a consideration of the homeowner's aesthetic and lifestyle. If the individual buying the home is a fan of open concept and wishes to reap the benefits of the privacy and noise-control associated with this setup, the floor plan may prove desirable. If, on the other hand, the homebuyers are soon planning to have children or prefer a more cozy and segmented design, this option will likely not be the best one for them.
Tags: floor plan, master bedroom, other bedrooms, this setup, family room, layout option