Character makes up for what this simple rectangular cottage lacks in size.

“This plan is ideal for a small lakefront lot or place in the woods, for someone seeking a basic vacation home that won’t cost a fortune but definitely has charm,” said architect Wayne Visbeen, AIA, IIDA, of Visbeen Associates Inc.

Intended first for traditional construction, it’s a plan that also could easily be built off-site, transported and efficiently put up in modular fashion.

“There’s very sure momentum behind modular home design right now — it’s a trend we’re seeing even in the higher end home market,” noted Visbeen, whose firm in February earned four major Best in American Living Awards — including Best Design in the Midwest Region — at the National Association of Home Builders’ annual Orlando-based convention. “Southern Living’s Home of the Year was modular, put up in three days.”

Shown rising off a stone base for substance, Whistling Cove’s floor plan is straightforward: “From the front porch, you walk right into the living room (fireplace optional), which flows into the dining room — flanked here by a screened room — kitchen, and laundry area,” Visbeen said. “Up an L-shaped stairway, a simple hall and full bath separate a master bedroom with fireplace if desired and a second bedroom or bunkroom.”

Although not a big home with storage, Visbeen said, this simple rectangular footprint can easily be expanded: “It’s good as is or a good place to start. There are a lot of options.”

Outside, a false gable off this getaway’s steeper roof slope creates visual interest, while a shed roof over both the front porch and screened room offers inviting character. Other details including double-hung, cottage-style windows and a wood front door take plain out of the plan, “drawing attention instead to a small, simple home that’s well-proportioned and welcoming.”

To view plans or purchase this floor plan, visit www.visbeen.biz or call (616) 285-9901 and ask for Michigan BLUE cottages.

MICHIGAN BLUE LAKESTYLE COTTAGE FLOOR PLAN IS A COPYRIGHT OF VISBEEN ASSOCIATES INC. AND IS MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH MICHIGAN BLUE, MICHIGAN’S LAKESTYLE MAGAZINE.