A split-level home is a very distinct style of house. It has multiple floor levels which are staggered. Typically, the main level contains the living areas: the kitchen, the dining room and family room and usually has two short sets of stairs. In total, there are usually three or four levels.

By separating these two spaces, the overall layout becomes more balanced

The entry is on the middle floor and the front door opens directly into the living area. There are also numerous other styles of split level homes, depending on the number of levels, their distribution and the overall layout and design of the house.

A split level design allows you to organize the spaces without using wallsA split level often separates the kitchen from the rest of the living spacesThe difference in level gives offers the perfect opportunity to have a barMost often, the living/ family room occupies the lower levelThe short sets of stairs rarely influence the overall interior designA very interesting split level design with a fireplace at the center

Strictly in terms of interior design and functionality, split level homes allow for a better organization of the space. Usually the dining area is on a different level than the living room and this creates a distinction between the two functions even though they are basically connected and share the same open floor plan.

Modern split level homes featuring a cozy reading nook near the staircaseSuch a design is perfect for homes with extra long spaces which need to be dividedThe entrance is usually situated on an intermediate levelTwo or more living/sitting areas can be both separated and connected by a split levelThe smaller spaces are often situated on a higher level than the restSplit level designs can be applied to all styles, not just modern and contemporaryThese two rooms are basically separate but one of the walls was partially demolishedA sunken sitting area lets you better organize the overall living space

It’s also common to have the kitchen situated on a slightly higher level than the dining and living areas. It’s an interesting design. The two spaces are clearly separated yet there are no walls between them. The kitchen offers you more privacy this way although it may be just an illusion. To better separate these two spaces, you can place the kitchen island in between them.

Picture sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15.