A dramatic portico supported by stately brick columns draws eyes to the Buckthorn's (333-142) entrance, where sidelights flank the door. Rounded brick-detailed arches echo the shape of a wide and lofty arched window that faces the street. This basically one-story plan has a family room upstairs and a basement below.

Inside, the mid-size home is sunny and spacious. In the dining room, the arched window fills most of the two-story-high front wall. In the living room, the ceiling is vaulted too, but not as high, sloping upward from the rear wall. Three skylights provide natural illumination on all but the darkest days. A curved hearth partially encircles the corner fireplace, creating a warm focal point when the skies turn dreary.

A bayed nook brightens and expands the large country kitchen. French doors in the nook open onto a wide deck that's accessible from the living room as well. A step-in pantry adds to the storage capacity.

The master suite is to the right, well-isolated from the secondary bedrooms at the opposite end of the house. Amenities here include a large walk-in closet and a dual-compartment two-bathroom. Steam from the oversized shower can thus be kept from fogging the mirror in the exterior section.

Utilities and a deep sink are located close to the secondary bedrooms in a wide pass-through space that connects the house to the garage. The two-car garage is deep, allowing space for storage, a recycling center and a long workbench with built-in cabinets.

Upstairs, the landing and part of the large family room are open toward the front, overlooking the entry and dining room and sharing in the light from the arched dining room window. Skylights and a bay window let in still more light.

The BUCKTHORN (333-142) is our plan of the week. For a limited time, we are offering up to 15% 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% off construction plans using the discount code (LWD13) or send payment to Landmark Designs, Inc. PO Box 5625 Eugene, OR 97405, remember to indicate BUCKTHORN (333-142) 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.