I'm going to put some links here to a number of designs (mostly by ARG) that have been posted to this forum. They're all GOOD designs, though often imperfect. However, you'll learn even a bit more to read through the comments on each where it is often revealed which compromises were made and why.
[Here's one[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/new-and-much-improved-plan-dsvw-vd~4384605?n=39) with the original and then an improved version by Houzz denizen Nick.
One for a challenging[narrow lot[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/the-journey-for-the-plan-has-finally-been-realized-long-dsvw-vd~4449548?n=48) in Calgary, AL.
A small, but tidy [1-1/2 story[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/thoughts-on-our-plan-by-doug-arg-dsvw-vd~5234154?n=39).
A house styled for a s[trangely-shaped lot[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/house-plans-designed-by-arg-dsvw-vd~4674826?n=24), with mature trees.
A home for a [large family on acreage[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/new-house-plan-reveal-a-la-arg-hooray-dsvw-vd~4565569?n=25). (Do look at this one. It demonstrates using a longer plan to keep the interior light and bright.)
A house showing the value of siting.
Another [lovely plan[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/nc-home-created-by-arg-dsvw-vd~4750003?n=19) on a larger lot, and the OP shares some of the design process and inspiration.
A [farmhouse[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/our-future-farmhouse-another-arg-work-dsvw-vd~5081457?n=42) at a nicely sized ~2500 sq ft. You'll see some back and forth and nit-picking here, even on a very good plan. But consider that some of these are "taste" and others are pretty minor. Yet more are valid points, but may have been compromises, too.
One with a [Finnish flair[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/doug-arg-designed-our-home-dsvw-vd~5287971?n=115), for another large family.
And, for reference, a [discussion[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/the-true-cost-of-generic-online-plans-dsvw-vd~4800425?n=106) on the true cost of online plans vs. designed plans.
My own plans are still in process, though you can find updateshere. We've made some pretty significant revisions to what's posted earlier. I'll share some updates soon.
It IS good to take some time to develop your "eye." I used to love flipping through stock plans. Now they mostly make me cringe, because I can spot the waste and recognize the poor layouts that would drive me nutty with time.
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Garrison Hullinger Interior Design Inc. Sure, here you go. blondinodesign.com
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