Carriage House Plans How Timeless Charm Increases Modern Real Estate Values

The modern day carriage house gets its name from 19th century outbuildings that were built to provide covered shelter for horse-drawn carriages and tack when they were not in use. The carriage house could be elaborately detailed to complement the main house, or could be more simplistic and utilitarian in design. Many carriage house plans and designs of the past also included a living quarters on the second floor for workers who cared for the horses and carriage.

Today, the carriage house plans refers to a detached garage with living space, or an apartment, above. They are generally large enough for 2 to 3 cars and feature, at a minimum, a bath and living room on the upper level.

Because the size of the living space above the garage is limited, amenities are modest with minimal closet space, a small kitchenette, and perhaps 1 or 2 bedrooms. Carriage houses situated on waterfront lots or lots with views often feature a 2nd floor porch, so the guests can take advantage of the same scenery as the main house.

Most carriage house plans offer private entrance to the living quarters without having to enter through the garage. The efficiency of the carriage house design makes it a nice alternative to a guest house, a quiet retreat for a private home office, or an entertainment room that leaves the main house undisturbed. Carriage houses can also serve as a source of income when used as a rental unit. The versatility of the carriage house makes it wise alternative to the traditional garage. Modern carriage house plans provides an excellent solution for extra space and to add value to your property.