Here's a solution that worked for us. We lengthened the rails so that the longer queen mattress would fit between the head and foot boards. Then we just laid 2 x 4 crosspieces across the top of the rails to hold the mattress. By opting not to mess with the width of the bed, we didn't have to worry about the connecting system. Granted the mattress is a bit wider than the head and foot boards, but it's not really very noticeable. It does raise the height of the mattresses by quite a bit, but I like a high bed, so this wasn't a drawback to me.

Weiyan8--we're building just barely over the northern part of the county line, due north of R. We have 1.5 acres and for the first time I am realizing how much yard work I'm going to be doing! Yikes. So, right now in this heat, your .47 acres looks good :-) And you're right--that IS a good sized lot for your area. One house we were interested in there at your sub/div was in the Parade of Homes last year, but the houses were way too close around it. I've probably driven past your house, but because it's still under construction, not paid much attention to it. I drive through when I need ideas--first exterior colors, then front door stain, and now landscape ideas. I'm always driving through yours and H.C. sub/div for ideas because it's so close to our apt. You do have a nice commute, and my husband is going to miss it. (Aren't you glad that road got re-surfaced before you moved in? We had a bad 5-mile stretch--worse than GLTD if you can belive it--that JUST got re-done. Perfect timing). I'll post some pics later. Since our grading was done, the height of our porch is much better, but I don't have a pic of it lately. It looks like you have at least 1 more step than we do. If you have little ones, I'd probably put up the rails--maybe even in my situation, but I don't. It's exciting to get so close to move-in, isn't it? Good luck and hope you enjoy your new home. Tracey

Guess I'm not fully versed in a tri-level layout, but it sounds like I might choose a wall. That noise bouncing around always bothers me and I'd personally try to avoid it if possible. Never been a big fan of the totally open concept. Always like a place to 'get away' visually if not physically. Tough call. Good luck!

How high is that porch? Is there a local ordinance requiring the railing because of its height? If not, take down the railing and throw it away. And then plant something low around the porch. Is there a sidewalk leading to it? And I agree with the doors comments. They are not suitable for your house.