Key West Style House Plans: A Guide to Designing Your Dream Home

Key West Style House Plans are a unique and distinctive architectural style that originated in the tropical paradise of Key West, Florida. These plans are characterized by their open and airy designs, which are perfectly suited to the warm climate and laid-back lifestyle of the island. Key West style homes often feature large porches, decks, and balconies, which provide ample space for outdoor living and entertaining.

One of the most iconic examples of a Key West style house plan is the “conch house,” which is a small, one-story home with a steeply pitched roof, a wraparound porch, and pastel-colored siding. Conch houses were originally built by Bahamian immigrants in the late 19th century, and they remain a popular choice for homeowners in Key West today. If you are considering building a new home in Key West, or if you are simply interested in learning more about this unique architectural style, then be sure to consult with a qualified architect or builder in your area.

In the following sections, we will explore the key elements of Key West style house plans, and we will provide tips and advice on how to design and build your own Key West dream home.

Key West style house plans are characterized by their unique and distinctive features, which include:

• Open and airy designs
• Large porches, decks, and balconies
• Steeply pitched roofs
• Pastel-colored siding
• Wraparound porches
• Tropical landscaping
• Hurricane-resistant construction
• Energy-efficient design

These features combine to create homes that are both beautiful and functional, and that are perfectly suited to the warm climate and laid-back lifestyle of Key West.

Open and airy designs

One of the key features of Key West style house plans is their open and airy designs. This is achieved through the use of large windows and doors, which allow for plenty of natural light and ventilation. Open floor plans are also common, which helps to create a sense of spaciousness and flow.

The use of outdoor living spaces is also an important aspect of Key West style homes. Large porches, decks, and balconies provide ample space for relaxing and entertaining, and they also help to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

The combination of open floor plans and outdoor living spaces creates homes that are both comfortable and inviting, and that are perfectly suited to the warm climate and laid-back lifestyle of Key West.

Here are some tips for incorporating open and airy designs into your own Key West style home:

• Use large windows and doors to allow for plenty of natural light and ventilation.
• Opt for an open floor plan to create a sense of spaciousness and flow.
• Incorporate outdoor living spaces, such as porches, decks, and balconies, to extend your living space and enjoy the outdoors.
• Use light and airy colors to create a bright and inviting atmosphere.
• Choose furniture that is comfortable and stylish, and that complements the open and airy design of your home.

Large porches, decks, and balconies

Large porches, decks, and balconies are a key feature of Key West style house plans. These outdoor living spaces provide ample space for relaxing and entertaining, and they also help to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

• Extended living space: Porches, decks, and balconies can extend your living space and provide additional areas for relaxing, dining, and entertaining. This is especially beneficial in warm climates like Key West, where outdoor living is a way of life.
• Indoor-outdoor flow: Large porches, decks, and balconies help to create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. This is achieved through the use of large windows and doors, which allow for easy access to the outdoors.
• Increased natural light and ventilation: Porches, decks, and balconies can also help to increase natural light and ventilation in your home. This is important in Key West, where the climate is warm and humid.
• Enhanced curb appeal: A well-designed porch, deck, or balcony can also enhance the curb appeal of your home. This can be important if you are planning to sell your home in the future.

When designing your porch, deck, or balcony, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Size: The size of your porch, deck, or balcony will depend on your needs and the size of your home. However, it is important to make sure that your outdoor living space is large enough to accommodate your furniture and guests comfortably.
• Location: The location of your porch, deck, or balcony will also depend on your needs and the layout of your home. However, it is important to choose a location that is both convenient and accessible.
• Materials: The materials you use for your porch, deck, or balcony will also depend on your needs and budget. However, it is important to choose materials that are durable and weather-resistant.

Steeply pitched roofs

Steeply pitched roofs are a key feature of Key West style house plans. These roofs are designed to withstand the high winds and heavy rains that are common in the Florida Keys. They are also designed to help keep homes cool in the warm climate.

There are several advantages to having a steeply pitched roof on your Key West style home:

• Wind resistance: A steeply pitched roof is more resistant to wind damage than a low-pitched roof. This is important in the Florida Keys, where hurricanes are a common occurrence.
• Water resistance: A steeply pitched roof also helps to keep water out of your home. This is important in the Florida Keys, where heavy rains are common.
• Energy efficiency: A steeply pitched roof can help to keep your home cool in the warm climate. This is because the hot air rises and escapes through the roof, while the cooler air stays near the ground.
• Architectural style: Steeply pitched roofs are also an important part of the Key West architectural style. They give homes a distinctive look that is both charming and functional.

When designing your steeply pitched roof, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Pitch: The pitch of your roof is the angle of the slope. The steeper the pitch, the more resistant your roof will be to wind and water damage. However, a steeper pitch will also be more expensive to build.
• Materials: The materials you use for your roof will also affect its performance. Metal roofs are the most durable and wind-resistant, but they are also the most expensive. Asphalt shingles are a more affordable option, but they are not as durable or wind-resistant as metal roofs.
• Ventilation: It is important to provide adequate ventilation for your roof. This will help to keep your home cool and dry.

Steeply pitched roofs are an important part of Key West style house plans. They provide several advantages, including wind resistance, water resistance, energy efficiency, and architectural style. When designing your steeply pitched roof, it is important to consider the pitch, materials, and ventilation.

Pastel-colored siding

Pastel-colored siding is a key feature of Key West style house plans. These colors are often used to create a bright and cheerful atmosphere, and they can also help to reflect the sunlight and keep homes cool in the warm climate.

The benefits of using pastel-colored siding on your Key West style home include:

• Aesthetics: Pastel colors are known for their beauty and charm. They can create a bright and cheerful atmosphere, and they can also help to reflect the sunlight and keep homes cool in the warm climate.
• Durability: Pastel-colored siding is also durable and long-lasting. It is resistant to fading and peeling, and it can withstand the harsh weather conditions that are common in the Florida Keys.
• Affordability: Pastel-colored siding is also relatively affordable. It is less expensive than other types of siding, such as wood or stone.
• Variety: Pastel colors come in a wide variety of shades, so you can find the perfect color to match your home’s style.

When choosing pastel-colored siding for your Key West style home, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Climate: The climate in the Florida Keys is warm and humid. Therefore, it is important to choose a siding material that is resistant to fading and peeling.
• Style: Pastel colors can be used to create a variety of different styles, from traditional to contemporary. Choose a color that complements the architectural style of your home.
• Maintenance: Pastel-colored siding is relatively easy to maintain. However, it is important to clean it regularly to prevent dirt and mildew from building up.

Pastel-colored siding is a great way to add beauty, durability, and affordability to your Key West style home. When choosing a color, be sure to consider the climate, style, and maintenance requirements of your home.

Wraparound porches

Wraparound porches are a key feature of Key West style house plans. These porches extend around two or more sides of the home, providing ample space for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying the outdoors.

• Extended living space: Wraparound porches extend your living space and provide additional areas for relaxing, dining, and entertaining. This is especially beneficial in warm climates like Key West, where outdoor living is a way of life.
• Indoor-outdoor flow: Wraparound porches help to create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. This is achieved through the use of large windows and doors, which allow for easy access to the outdoors.
• Increased natural light and ventilation: Wraparound porches can also help to increase natural light and ventilation in your home. This is important in Key West, where the climate is warm and humid.
• Enhanced curb appeal: A well-designed wraparound porch can also enhance the curb appeal of your home. This can be important if you are planning to sell your home in the future.

When designing your wraparound porch, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Size: The size of your wraparound porch will depend on your needs and the size of your home. However, it is important to make sure that your porch is large enough to accommodate your furniture and guests comfortably.
• Location: The location of your wraparound porch will also depend on your needs and the layout of your home. However, it is important to choose a location that is both convenient and accessible.
• Materials: The materials you use for your wraparound porch will also depend on your needs and budget. However, it is important to choose materials that are durable and weather-resistant.

Wraparound porches are a great way to add beauty, functionality, and value to your Key West style home. When designing your porch, be sure to consider the size, location, and materials. With careful planning, you can create a wraparound porch that will be the perfect place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors.

Tropical landscaping

Tropical landscaping is an important part of Key West style house plans. The warm climate and abundant sunshine in Key West provide the perfect conditions for growing a variety of tropical plants and flowers. Tropical landscaping can help to create a lush and inviting outdoor space that is perfect for relaxing and entertaining.

• Palm trees: Palm trees are a classic symbol of the tropics, and they are a popular choice for Key West style landscaping. Palm trees come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect tree to fit your needs and the size of your yard.
• Tropical flowers: There are a wide variety of tropical flowers that can be grown in Key West. Some of the most popular choices include hibiscus, bougainvillea, and orchids. Tropical flowers add a splash of color and beauty to any landscape.
• Fruit trees: Fruit trees are a great way to add both beauty and function to your Key West style landscape. Mango trees, avocado trees, and citrus trees are all popular choices for Key West homeowners.
• Native plants: Native plants are a good choice for Key West style landscaping because they are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Native plants also help to attract wildlife, such as birds and butterflies.

When designing your tropical landscape, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Climate: The climate in Key West is warm and humid. Therefore, it is important to choose plants that are tolerant of these conditions.
• Soil conditions: The soil in Key West is typically sandy and alkaline. Therefore, it is important to choose plants that are tolerant of these conditions.
• Size of your yard: The size of your yard will determine the types of plants that you can grow. If you have a small yard, you may want to focus on smaller plants, such as shrubs and flowers. If you have a large yard, you may have more space for larger plants, such as trees and fruit trees.
• Your personal preferences: Ultimately, the best way to design your tropical landscape is to choose plants that you love and that fit your personal style.

Tropical landscaping is a great way to add beauty, function, and value to your Key West style home. By carefully planning your landscape, you can create a lush and inviting outdoor space that is perfect for relaxing and entertaining.

Hurricane-resistant construction

Hurricane-resistant construction is an important part of Key West style house plans. The Florida Keys are located in a hurricane-prone region, so it is important to build homes that can withstand high winds and heavy rains.

There are a number of different hurricane-resistant construction techniques that can be used on Key West style homes. These techniques include:

• Reinforced concrete construction: Reinforced concrete is a strong and durable material that is resistant to high winds and heavy rains. Reinforced concrete homes are often built with thick walls and a reinforced concrete roof.
• Steel framing: Steel framing is another strong and durable material that is resistant to high winds and heavy rains. Steel framed homes are often built with steel beams and columns, and a steel roof.
• Impact-resistant windows and doors: Impact-resistant windows and doors are designed to withstand high winds and heavy rains. They are made with thick glass and a strong frame, and they are often installed with hurricane shutters.
• Elevated foundations: Elevated foundations are designed to raise the home above the ground, which helps to protect it from flooding and storm surge.

In addition to these construction techniques, there are a number of other things that can be done to make a Key West style home more hurricane-resistant. These include:

• Landscaping: Planting trees and shrubs around your home can help to block wind and reduce the risk of damage from flying debris.
• Roofing: A well-maintained roof is essential for protecting your home from hurricane damage. Make sure that your roof is in good condition and that all of the shingles are securely attached.
• Gutters and downspouts: Gutters and downspouts help to direct water away from your home, which can help to prevent flooding and damage to your foundation.
• Emergency preparedness: It is important to have an emergency plan in place in case of a hurricane. Make sure that you have a supply of food, water, and other essential items, and that you know where to go if you need to evacuate.

By following these tips, you can help to make your Key West style home more hurricane-resistant. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from the elements.

Energy-efficient design

Energy-efficient design is an important part of Key West style house plans. The warm climate in Key West means that homes need to be designed to keep cool and comfortable without using excessive energy. There are a number of different energy-efficient design techniques that can be used on Key West style homes. These techniques include:

**Passive solar design:** Passive solar design is a design approach that uses the sun’s energy to heat and cool a home naturally. This is achieved through the use of large windows and doors that allow sunlight to enter the home during the winter months, and overhangs and awnings that shade the home from the sun during the summer months. Passive solar design can significantly reduce the need for heating and cooling, which can save homeowners money on their energy bills.

**Energy-efficient appliances and fixtures:** Energy-efficient appliances and fixtures can also help to reduce energy consumption in Key West style homes. These appliances and fixtures use less energy to operate, which can save homeowners money on their energy bills. Some examples of energy-efficient appliances and fixtures include LED light bulbs, Energy Star appliances, and low-flow showerheads.

**Renewable energy sources:** Renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, can also be used to reduce energy consumption in Key West style homes. These renewable energy sources can generate electricity that can be used to power the home, which can save homeowners money on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.

**Green building materials:** Green building materials are materials that are produced in a sustainable way and have a low environmental impact. These materials can help to reduce the energy consumption of a Key West style home, and they can also improve the indoor air quality. Some examples of green building materials include recycled materials, sustainable wood products, and low-VOC paints and finishes.

By following these energy-efficient design tips, homeowners can create Key West style homes that are comfortable, affordable, and environmentally friendly.