Split-Level Style Homes in Washington DC Metro Area

Who would have thought that Split-Level homes for sale would make a comeback in the Washington DC Metro area? Actually, the renewed enthusiasm isn’t confined to the nation’s capital or its surrounding environs. But we can’t be concerned with other parts of the country—our focus is on Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, the District itself, Maryland and other parts of the region.

First, it should be noted that split-level homes are most prevalent in suburbs, and in communities that saw a rapid period of residential development during the post-World War II era. It was a time of rapid population growth with a flood of new arrivals as the economy expanded and families put down new roots.

As for the architecture itself, split-level homes evolved from the low-profile ranch style. However, those homes were a single story while the split style with its stacked design featured two-to-three levels. Also the footprint can be smaller than the rambling ranch styles.

The modernist influence for these structures was also quite obvious. In fact, noted architect Charles Goodman—responsible for the Hollin Hills mid-century modern community in Alexandria—was a chief designer for the National Homes Corporation in the mid-1950s. This was one of the nation’s largest suppliers of pre-fab split-levels.

One of the trends for home ownership in the 1950’s and 1960’s was a desire to have a yard and to generally appreciate natural surroundings. The split-level concept lent itself to uneven lots that developers wished to leave ungraded. You’ll find a lot of these homes built into hills but the design also works just fine on level ground. Plus, the smaller footprint and stacked concept allows owners to have larger yards!

Often, a split level utilizes a layout in which there’s a lower level family room, a mid-level entry point and upper level bedrooms. Kitchens can usually be found either on the mid-level or upper level.

There are a number of variations, including bi-level, tri-level, back-split, front-split and side-split. The front door can open into nothing more than a foyer with stairs leading up and down, or a more elaborate three-story floor plan. Larger versions will often include dens or rec rooms, and outside decks or patios. Also, garages and car ports can sometimes have overhead living space. And don’t forget the finished basements!

The initial heyday of the split level was fairly short-lived, bursting upon the scene with much fanfare and gained fame with TV shows like the Brady Bunch. Who doesn’t remember the kids coming down the floating stairs into that sunken living room with the big stone fireplace? But even if the home style went out of vogue fairly quickly, it has come roaring back in recent years, often with updates, renovations and add-ons.

Yes, there were initially a lot of split-levels on the market due to the fact that they just weren’t all that fashionable. But affordable prices and a return to yesteryear pop culture appreciation has factored into the renewed popularity for these mid-century homes for sale.