Best House Plans for Rural Areas: 6 Types

Finding the best house plans for rural areas requires careful thought. You need a home that fits the environment, meets your needs, and remains affordable. Below are top designs suited for countryside living.

1. Simple Farmhouse Style

The simple farmhouse style remains one of the most popular choices for rural areas. It combines charm, practicality, and timeless appeal. This design is perfect for those who want a cozy, yet functional home that fits well into the countryside landscape.

A typical farmhouse design features a large front porch, often stretching the entire width of the house. This provides a great space for outdoor living, whether for relaxing or entertaining guests. The roof is usually gabled, allowing for a traditional and attractive look, while also providing extra space in the attic.

Inside, farmhouse homes are known for their open floor plans. The kitchen and living areas typically flow into one another, creating a sense of connection and ease. The design makes the space feel larger and promotes family interaction. Big windows are common in farmhouse design plans, letting in plenty of natural light, which helps keep the space bright and airy.

Another standout feature of farmhouse homes is the use of durable, low-maintenance materials. Wood floors, shiplap walls, and metal roofs are popular choices. These materials are not only attractive but also practical for rural living, where durability and simplicity are key.

A farmhouse is also customizable. You can adjust the number of bedrooms, add extra storage, or even include a mudroom for convenience. The simplicity and versatility of farmhouse design plans make them perfect for rural areas where you want a home that is both functional and stylish.

If you’re looking for a home that blends comfort with rural charm, a simple farmhouse design is a great option. Its practical features, like the spacious porch and open layout, make it one of the best home designs for rural living.

2. Cottage House Plan

The cottage house plan is a fantastic choice for rural areas, especially for those looking to create a cozy, charming, and low-maintenance home. Often smaller in size, cottages are designed to maximize space while providing all the essentials for comfortable living.

Cottages are perfect for smaller lots, offering an efficient use of space without feeling cramped. The open floor plans in most cottage designs make the interior feel more expansive, with rooms flowing seamlessly from one to the next. This creates a bright, welcoming environment that can be further enhanced by the use of natural light and open windows.

One of the standout features of a cottage house plan is its use of natural, local materials. Wood, stone, and other eco-friendly materials are commonly used to blend the home into its rural surroundings. The design often includes exposed beams and wood accents, which add a rustic yet cozy feel. This makes cottages not only visually appealing but also sustainable for rural living.

The exterior of a cottage is typically characterized by a steeply pitched roof, giving it a quaint, storybook appearance. Some designs include a small porch or even a wraparound deck, providing a perfect spot to enjoy the outdoors. These elements help to make the cottage feel connected to nature, which is especially important in rural areas.

Cottages are highly customizable, so you can adjust the layout to fit your needs. Whether you want a one-bedroom retreat or a two-bedroom family home, cottage plans can be modified to suit your lifestyle. Even small additions, like a cozy reading nook or a compact kitchen, can be incorporated without compromising the charm of the space.

3. Ranch-Style Home

The ranch-style home is a timeless and practical design, especially suited for rural areas. Known for its simplicity and functionality, this style offers a single-story layout that makes it easy to navigate, with a focus on open spaces and outdoor living.

A key feature of the ranch-style home is its low profile. These homes are often spread out horizontally, which allows for easy access and creates a sense of spaciousness both inside and outside. The wide, open floor plan promotes a natural flow from room to room, which is perfect for family gatherings or hosting guests. Large windows are also a common feature, bringing in natural light and connecting the interior to the surrounding landscape.

Ranch homes are practical for rural settings because they can be easily adapted to various lot sizes. Whether you have a large parcel of land or a smaller plot, the single-story design makes it easier to add extensions or even incorporate additional outdoor spaces like patios or decks. The design also typically includes a garage or carport, which is essential in rural areas where vehicles are often needed for daily tasks.

The exterior of a ranch-style home is often simple and clean, with a focus on function over form. Roofs are typically gabled or hipped, providing a traditional look while offering durability in varying weather conditions. Materials like brick, stone, or wood siding are often used, creating a solid, low-maintenance finish that stands up well to the elements.

Inside, the ranch-style home is known for its open-concept living. The kitchen, dining, and living areas are often combined into one large, flowing space. This open layout is great for families who enjoy spending time together and for entertaining. You can easily adjust the number of rooms, creating a space that fits your needs—whether you need additional bedrooms, a home office, or a larger living area.

The flexibility and practicality of a ranch-style home make it an excellent choice for rural living. With its single-level design, large open spaces, and ability to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, the ranch-style home is one of the best rural house designs for those looking for a comfortable and functional home.

4. Barndominium Design

The barndominium design or barn plan design is rapidly gaining popularity in rural areas, offering a unique blend of rustic charm and modern functionality. Combining the structure of a barn with the comfort of a home, this design is especially appealing for those who need both living space and storage or workspace, such as farmers, hobbyists, or anyone looking for a versatile rural home.

One of the main advantages of a barndominium is its wide, open floor plan. The main living space often features high ceilings, creating a sense of openness and airiness. The large, open interior allows for easy customization, whether you want a large living area, multiple bedrooms, or a combined kitchen and dining space. The openness also makes it easy to incorporate large windows, which bring in ample natural light and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Barndominiums are built with steel frames, making them highly durable and energy-efficient. The use of metal for the exterior ensures that the home can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as high winds, heavy rain, or snow. The strong, long-lasting materials used in barndominium design plans can also lower maintenance costs, which is especially important for those living in remote rural areas where repairs may be harder to access.

Inside, the barndominium combines the charm of a traditional home with the modern features of a barn. Exposed beams, polished concrete floors, and industrial-style finishes give the interior a clean, rustic look. Many designs also incorporate loft spaces for additional bedrooms or storage, maximizing the available space without overcrowding the main floor.

The design’s flexibility makes it ideal for those who need a combination of living space and a place to work or store equipment. The large open areas can easily accommodate a workshop, garage, or even a small business operation, all under one roof. This versatility is one of the key benefits of the barndominium, making it one of the best rural house designs for families who require extra space.

Another benefit of a barndominium is its energy efficiency. With its insulated walls, metal roofing, and open layout, it can stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, helping to reduce energy bills. Many barndominium designs also include eco-friendly features such as solar panels, rainwater collection systems, and energy-efficient appliances, further reducing the environmental impact.

5. Log Cabin Home

A log cabin home is the perfect choice for those who want to embrace nature while living in a cozy, timeless environment. Known for their rustic appeal and strong connection to the outdoors, log cabins are a popular option for rural areas. They blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, offering a sense of peace and tranquility that many people seek in remote locations.

The log cabin home is built primarily from timber, often sourced from local forests, making it an eco-friendly choice for those who value sustainability. The sturdy wooden logs provide excellent insulation, helping to regulate the indoor temperature. In winter, the home stays warm, and in summer, it remains cool, reducing energy costs. This makes a log cabin not only beautiful but also energy-efficient, which is especially valuable in rural areas where heating and cooling can become expensive.

When looking at plans for a log home, you’ll notice that they are often designed with simplicity in mind. The floor plans are typically open, with the main living area featuring a large, welcoming space that flows into the kitchen and dining areas. This open layout creates a feeling of spaciousness while allowing easy movement between rooms. Large windows are common in log cabin homes, bringing in natural light and offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

A log home plan can be customized to fit your needs, whether you’re looking for a small, cozy retreat or a larger family home. Many designs feature loft spaces or additional bedrooms, providing more space without compromising the cabin’s intimate feel. Some log cabins also include a fireplace or wood stove, adding to the rustic charm and warmth of the home.

The exterior of a log cabin home is characterized by its distinctive log walls. The logs are typically left exposed, showcasing their natural beauty and texture. You may choose from a variety of log styles, including round logs, square logs, or hand-hewn logs, depending on your aesthetic preferences. The roof is often steeply pitched, which not only adds to the cabin’s rustic appeal but also helps with snow runoff in colder climates.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, log cabins are incredibly durable. The thick wooden walls can withstand harsh weather conditions, and the natural materials are resistant to pests and rot when properly maintained. Many log cabin owners choose to treat the wood with special sealants to ensure longevity and protect the home from the elements.

6. Off-Grid House Plan

For those seeking independence and sustainability, an off-grid house plan is the ideal choice. Living off the grid means you are not reliant on public utilities for water, electricity, or even sewage systems. This lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular in rural areas, where utility access can be limited or where people simply want to reduce their environmental footprint.

An off-grid home is designed to function without relying on external sources of energy. Solar panels are typically used to power the home, generating electricity from the sun’s energy. These systems can be paired with battery storage to store excess power for cloudy days or during the night. Wind turbines are also an option, particularly in areas with consistent wind patterns. Both of these renewable energy sources help reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and lower utility bills.

Water is another critical component of an off-grid house plan. Many off-grid homes rely on rainwater collection systems, which gather and store rainwater for household use. This water can be filtered and purified to make it safe for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. In some cases, homes may also have wells that tap into underground water sources. Regardless of the water source, off-grid homes often include filtration and purification systems to ensure clean water throughout the year.

Waste management is also carefully planned for off-grid homes. Composting toilets, septic systems, or even greywater recycling systems are commonly used to handle waste in a sustainable way. These systems are designed to minimize environmental impact while providing effective waste disposal, which is especially important in rural areas where municipal services are unavailable.

The design of an off-grid home is often compact and efficient, with a focus on minimizing energy use. Many off-grid house plans feature smaller living spaces, which require fewer resources to heat and cool. Insulation is key in keeping the home comfortable, as well as reducing the need for heating or cooling systems. The orientation of the home is also considered to maximize natural light and heat from the sun. Large windows on the south side of the house help capture solar energy in colder months, while overhangs or shading devices can block direct sunlight during the summer.

In addition to being environmentally friendly, off-grid homes are often built with durability in mind. Materials like straw bale, cob, or concrete are used to create energy-efficient and long-lasting structures. Many off-grid homeowners also incorporate natural building techniques, such as earth berming or green roofs, to further enhance energy efficiency and blend the home into the surrounding landscape.

Living off the grid provides a sense of self-sufficiency and freedom. It’s perfect for those looking to reduce their dependence on utilities and live a more sustainable lifestyle. Off-grid homes allow you to live in harmony with nature while still enjoying the comforts of modern living.

How to Build a House in Rural Areas: Best House Plans for Rural Areas

Building a house in rural areas offers unique opportunities, but it also comes with distinct challenges. Whether you’re planning to construct a simple farmhouse or an off-grid cabin, careful planning is essential to ensure your home meets your needs and blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Below are key steps to help you navigate the process of building in rural areas.

1. Choose the Right Land

Before you even begin drawing up plans for a house, you need to choose the right piece of land. Evaluate factors like proximity to roads, access to utilities, and the land’s suitability for construction. If your property is in a remote area, make sure there’s access to essential services like water, electricity, and sewage systems. If utilities are not available, you’ll need to plan for alternative options, such as solar power, rainwater collection, or septic systems.

Consider the terrain as well. If the land is hilly or prone to flooding, this will affect both the design of your home and the foundation construction. A flat, dry area is typically the easiest and most cost-effective place to build.

2. Check Local Building Codes and Permits

Each rural area has its own building codes and zoning laws that you must adhere to. Before you begin construction, research the local building regulations and ensure your plans are compliant. This may involve obtaining permits for things like electrical installations, septic systems, or water wells.

Some rural areas may have more relaxed building codes, but it’s still crucial to follow proper procedures to ensure your home is safe and up to standard. Additionally, if you’re planning to build off-grid, you may need to apply for special permits for things like solar power systems or rainwater collection systems.

Do Your Homework: What’s Required?

• Understand What Plans Include: Before submitting anything to the local authorities, review your house plans carefully. Make sure your plans include all necessary details, such as site layout, structural drawings, and specifications for utilities.
• Explore Plan Options: Rural builds sometimes require customization to meet local requirements or to suit the landscape. Be flexible and ready to adapt your plans if local codes—or the lay of your land—demand changes.
• Double-Check Local Building Codes: Codes can vary not only by state but by county or township. Contact your local building department early to clarify what is required for your area.
• Review the Purchase Agreement: If you’re buying a set of plans or working with an architect, read the purchase agreement closely. Some plans may need to be certified by a local engineer or adapted for your specific site, especially in rural settings.

Taking the time to understand and prepare for these requirements upfront will help you avoid costly delays and ensure that your rural home is built to last.

3. Plan for Utility and Resource Access

In rural areas, access to public utilities may be limited. This means you’ll need to incorporate alternative resources into your home design. For example, if there’s no public water supply, consider installing a well or a rainwater harvesting system. You may also need to set up a septic tank or composting toilet if a public sewage system isn’t available.

Power is another consideration. If your home is far from the grid, you’ll likely need to rely on solar power, wind energy, or even a generator. Make sure your off-grid home design accommodates the necessary energy storage, such as batteries for solar energy, so you have consistent power.

4. Focus on Energy Efficiency

Building a house in rural areas often means you’ll have to think about sustainability and energy efficiency. Without easy access to public energy sources, reducing energy consumption becomes essential.

Incorporating energy-efficient features into your home’s design can significantly cut costs in the long run. Use high-quality insulation to keep temperatures comfortable year-round, and orient your home to take advantage of natural sunlight for heating in the winter. Installing energy-efficient windows, using LED lighting, and considering energy-efficient appliances are also important steps toward reducing your energy usage.

5. Select Durable and Local Building Materials

When building in rural areas, it’s often a good idea to use locally available building materials. Not only can this reduce transportation costs, but it also helps your home blend in with the natural surroundings.

For example, using timber for a log cabin or a metal roof for a barn-style home can provide durability and help your house withstand the rural climate. Materials like stone, adobe, and straw bale are also popular in rural settings because they offer great insulation and require little maintenance.

Using local materials can also be an eco-friendly choice. For those seeking a greener, more sustainable option, these materials can help reduce the environmental impact of construction.

6. Consider Transportation and Access

Rural areas can have limited access to major roads, so it’s important to ensure your home is easily reachable, especially during harsh weather conditions. When planning for your house, make sure the path to your land is well maintained and accessible year-round.

You might need to invest in a gravel driveway, or if your area experiences heavy snow, consider installing a heated driveway or a good drainage system to prevent flooding and mudslides. Keep in mind that when choosing a design for your home, the access road should also be able to support construction vehicles and heavy equipment during the building process.

7. Hire a Local Contractor or Skilled Labor

When building a house in rural areas, it’s often beneficial to work with a local contractor or skilled laborers who are familiar with the unique challenges of rural construction. Local experts will know the best materials to use for the area, understand the local building codes, and may have established relationships with suppliers.

Finding contractors experienced in rural home building can help you avoid potential roadblocks in your project. These professionals can also provide valuable insights on how to build more efficiently, saving you time and money.

8. Embrace Outdoor Living

Rural areas often offer stunning natural landscapes that can serve as an extension of your living space. Many rural house plans incorporate large decks, porches, or patios to take advantage of the outdoor environment.

Consider designing your home with outdoor living in mind. A spacious porch, for example, can provide a perfect place for relaxation, entertaining guests, or enjoying the natural beauty of your surroundings. Outdoor spaces can also include gardens, fire pits, or paths that connect your home to nearby woods or fields, helping you make the most of rural living.

9. Think About Future Expansion

As your needs change, you may want to expand your rural home in the future. When designing your house, consider how easy it will be to add additional rooms or features later on. A flexible design with an open floor plan or modular construction can make future expansions more cost-effective and simpler.

10. Stay Within Budget

Finally, it’s important to stick to your budget throughout the building process. Building in rural areas can sometimes incur unexpected costs, especially if you need to bring in utilities or face delivery delays. Make sure to plan for contingencies, but stay mindful of your financial limits to avoid overspending.

Customizing Your Country House Plan Search

Finding the perfect country house plan doesn’t have to be overwhelming—most plan databases allow you to filter designs based on your specific needs and preferences.

You can begin narrowing your options by adjusting key criteria such as:

• Square Footage: Select from compact cottages to more expansive farmhouses, depending on how much living space you’d like.
• Bedrooms and Bathrooms: Easily set the minimum number of bedrooms or bathrooms, whether you’re planning for cozy living or room for a growing family.
• Stories: Prefer a classic single-story ranch or a two-story farmhouse? Choose the number of levels that suit your lifestyle.
• Garage Spaces: Specify how many vehicles you’d like space for, or opt for a carport if that better matches your needs.

Beyond these basics, there are plenty of ways to really customize your search:

• Architectural Styles: Filter by style—such as Craftsman, Modern Farmhouse, Cottage, or Mountain Rustic—so your home reflects your architectural tastes.
• Outdoor Features: Love a wraparound porch or dream of a screened-in area to enjoy the summer evenings? Pick plans that feature these inviting spaces.
• Flexible Living Areas: Look for options like bonus rooms, lofts, offices, or mud rooms that adapt to your family’s changing routine.
• Layout Preferences: Many tools allow filtering for master suites on the main floor, open-concept kitchens, split bedrooms for privacy, or specialized rooms such as studies and media rooms.
• Foundation Types: Whether you want a basement, crawl space, or slab construction, options are available to match your site and regional climate.

These filters help you quickly zone in on plans that not only fit your land but your lifestyle as well. With so many customizable options out there, finding the right rural home design is more efficient and enjoyable than ever.

Conclusion

Building a house in rural areas can be one of the most rewarding experiences, offering the chance to create a home that suits your lifestyle, integrates with nature, and provides long-term sustainability. With thoughtful planning and attention to factors like land selection, utility access, building materials, and energy efficiency, you can create a rural home that not only meets your needs but enhances your connection to the outdoors.

At Nyolenju Structures, we specialize in providing the best house plans for rural areas, ensuring that each design is tailored to the unique needs and conditions of rural living. Whether you’re interested in a charming farmhouse, a durable ranch-style home, or a self-sustaining off-grid cabin, we have a range of plans that can be customized to fit your vision. Our team is committed to helping you build a functional, beautiful home that stands the test of time.

What Makes a Great Rural House Plan?

When selecting a house plan for country or rural settings, certain features can make daily living more comfortable and enjoyable:

• Wrap-around or expansive porches: Perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and taking in the surrounding landscape—these are a hallmark of country living.
• Large, functional kitchens: The kitchen often serves as the heart of a rural home, offering plenty of space for family gatherings and food preparation.
• Evenly spaced windows: Ample natural light and cross-ventilation are essential for comfort and energy efficiency.
• Gabled roofs: These not only add classic charm but also help shed rain and debris, which is especially practical in rural climates.
• Central entryways: A welcoming, accessible front door makes coming home—and hosting guests—a pleasure.

We understand that every rural site and homeowner is unique, which is why our plans can be adapted to suit your land, lifestyle, and future needs. Whether you dream of a porch overlooking rolling fields or a kitchen designed for farm-to-table cooking, our house plans are crafted for real rural living.

If you’re ready to bring your rural home vision to life, get in touch with us today! Visit our website to explore our diverse selection of house plans or reach out to us on our WhatsApp platform for further assistance. Let Nyolenju Structures guide you through every step of your rural home-building journey.