Off-site recreational vehicle parking won't be necessary with the Starling (332-280). The plan includes an RV parking pad that could be covered next to the garage.

The Starling is designed for construction on land that slopes down at the back. But the lot doesn't have to be huge because this compact two-story home is only 47 feet deep and 40 feet wide if you don't count the deck.

Two bedrooms, a large family room, a bathroom and a hall lined with storage space are all below the main level, in the daylight basement. Sliding glass doors in the family room open onto a covered patio, and all three rooms have large windows to allow appreciation of a vista to the rear.

At the heart of the central living area on the main floor, a wood stove is seated on a wide tile hearth. In winter it serves as a focal point as well as a heat source.

A large step-in pantry augments storage space in the kitchen. The sink and dishwasher face into the vaulted dining room and are set in a long counter that could be an eating bar. Some families might feel an eating bar is unnecessary here since the skylit nook is such a bright and cheerful eating space. The kitchen is designed for efficiency, with the sink, cooktop and refrigerator located in a, tight triangle.

A powder room is close to the kitchen and not far from the front door. It is also just a few steps from the pass-through utility room, which connects the house to the garage. The utility room has a small counter for folding clothes and plenty of overhead cabinets. Extra space for a shop and storage is available in the two-car garage.

Sliding glass doors in the dining room and master suite open onto a deck that spans the back of the home. The master suite has a vaulted ceiling, walk-in closet and private bathroom.

Having the dining room and living room completely open creates a sense of spaciousness. This arrangement also allows the option of outfitting the area as one large great room, or as two distinctly different living environments.

The Starling (332-280) 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 STARLING (332-280) 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.