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There’s just something about one-level living...


Blog by Robert Matthews | July 24th, 2021


Expansive one-level ranchers are rarely found here in Metro Vancouver. With our high land prices and, in some areas, relatively small lot sizes, it makes most economic sense to build up, not out. 

But one-level living has a lot of appeal. There's just something to be said for an easy flow from one end of a home to the other. Here's a selection of one-level homes from around the world. Some elegantly simple, some stylishly sophisticated, all designed with that easy flow. (If clicking through remember to choose reader view on your mobile device for the best viewing experience, with no ads!) 

Typical Hawaiian design principles are used throughout this Big Island home. If you've ever dreamt of Hawaiian living, this 1.5 acre compound is the place to be. The 4,800 sq. ft. home is meant to resemble a traditional Hawaiian village, with a main living pod and two separate guest suites connected by communal outdoor spaces.

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This California home on the Big Sur coast blends in beautifully with its environment. Beautiful work combining steel supports, large expanses of glass, meticulously installed rock walls, and heavy wooden beams, all coming together as a spectacular package. Particular care was taken throughout design and construction to preserve this ecologically sensitive site. More info here.

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The simple form of this contemporary Connecticut home, meant to mimic historic barns in the area, gives way to a light and airy interior with calming natural finishes. Expansive river and valley views are accessible throughout the home via a full-width breezeway, which opens up to allow cross breezes during summer. 

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This contemporary modular home outside of Sydney, Australia sits lightly on 190 hectares of working farmland. The home is comprised of three modules, all built off site in a factory setting to minimize excessive travel for tradespeople. The contemporary spec looks right at home against the rural, somewhat primitive landscape.

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Lots of sophisticated design elements and beautiful workmanship in this urban Colorado home

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This one is a favourite. This simple Spanish rancher near Barcelona has just about everything you need to truly relax, including calming neutrals, a rustic vibe and a tranquil, private location. 

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From Spain back to the U.S.; specifically, a remote island off the coast of Maine. More open and airy than you'd expect, perfect for holiday get-aways. More info here.

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If you're keen for seaside living, how about this Mediterranean beach house? This sprawling single-storey home on the island of Corsica is positioned on a cape, bordered by a private beach as well as a small port for boats. Topped with a green roof, the building's material palette seeks to blend with the natural environment. The red cedar envelope filters sunlight, while working to decrease the apparent volume of the home when viewed from the sea.


Back in California, this cedar-clad home is simple in form and materials, fitting in perfectly with its Laurel Canyon location. The finishings and quality of workmanship are top-notch.

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