What is a cottage house plan?

A cottage house plan is a compact residential design — typically 800 to 2,000 sq ft — characterized by steep roof pitches, dormer windows, asymmetric rooflines, and exterior detailing (stone, board-and-batten, timber accents) that gives the home its storybook or vernacular character. Cottages prioritize architectural character over square footage.

What are fairytale cottage plans?

Fairytale cottage plans are a design vocabulary developed by Max Fulbright Sr. featuring rounded doors, eyebrow dormers, asymmetric rooflines, stone base walls, and handcrafted detailing that makes a house look organic and storied rather than designed by committee. They build with standard materials, meet all code requirements, and live as well as any conventional plan.

Can a cottage plan work as a full-time residence?

Yes, with the right plan. Full-time cottage living needs a real kitchen (not a galley), defined storage (pantry, coat closet, linen), a laundry area, and bedrooms that aren't open to the great room. Cottages over 1,400 sq ft can typically meet all of these requirements comfortably. Under 1,200 sq ft, the plan has to be very thoughtfully organized — which is what separates a good cottage designer from a generic plan catalog.