Whether you call this cool exterior passage a porch or a verandah, the Festive (336-130) has a long one. It begins in front of the utility room and sweeps past the stairs, living room and den.

Inspired by the sweltering summer days of the Deep South, this feature allows plenty of space for catching the breezes while avoiding the sun. There's room here for wicker furniture, lounge chairs and even a porch swing.

The interior is equally spacious with nine-foot ceilings throughout. None of the rooms are cramped, and some, such as the master suite, family room and living room, are quite large. Luxury amenities in the isolated master suite upstairs include a skylight, an elevated custom spa, twin basins, a shower unit, a sun deck, a walk-in closet and an additional vanity outside of the bathroom.

A vaulted den is to the left of the entryway with French doors for privacy or openness. Family living areas are at the center of the home; children's bedrooms are to the right.

Plants flourish in the garden window in front of the kitchen sink. A lengthy raised eating bar with a vegetable sink provides partial separation between the kitchen and family room. The ovens, cook top and dishwasher are all built in. If desired, a desk could be tucked into the alcove between the ovens and the refrigerator. A walk-through pantry or wine storage is nearby, close to the nook and large dining room.

Fireplaces — two of them — warm the family room and the bayed living room. The one in the living room has wood boxes on both sides of it, with shelves overhead. Four skylights brighten the family room.

Each of the three additional bedrooms has walk-in closets. The guest bedroom has a private bath and deck. Each of the other two bedrooms has its own basin and share access to a separately enclosed tub and toilet.

Amenities in the large utility room include a deep sink, fold-down ironing board, closet and freezer.

The FESTIVE (336-130) is our plan of the week. For a limited time, we are offering up to 15 percent off construction plans for this design. Call us at 1-800-562-1151 or visit us on line at www.ldiplans.com for details. A $25 study plan is also available consisting of: an artist rendering, elevations, floor plans, and cross section. Order online or search hundreds of other designs including garages, multi family, and standard and luxury homes at www.ldiplans.com. Order this week to save up to 15 percent off construction plans using the discount code (LWD13) or send payment to Landmark Designs, Inc. PO Box 5625 Eugene, OR 97405, remember to indicate FESTIVE (336-130) and code.

To find out more about Scott McAlexander and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.