Home Building

Home for the Holidays: Discovering the Joy of Open-Concept Living

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Open Concept House Plans | Holiday entertaining in open concept homes

There’s something special about spending the holidays at home—the excitement of Santa coming down the chimney, a dining room filled with tables and chairs ready for guests and a thanksgiving feast, holly draped along the mantel and stairway, and a kitchen overflowing with the smells of delicious dishes.

With the holiday season approaching, now is the right time to remind ourselves what truly matters—spending quality time with friends and family, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, a cozy Friendsgiving gathering, or a holiday office party, your home should feel inviting, comfortable, and just right for celebrating the season.

At Bardwell, we understand how important it is to have a home that adapts to your lifestyle, especially during the holidays. That’s why we embrace open-concept living in our home designs—bringing more people together while maximizing both comfort and style.

What Is Open-Concept Living?

Open-concept living is all about creating spacious layouts where the kitchen, dining, and living areas blend seamlessly into one space. Gone are the days of closed-off main rooms and isolated spaces; instead, this design fosters connection and movement, allowing family and friends more opportunities to connect and feel close. At Bardwell Homes, we design homes with these features in mind, ideal for everything from intimate dinners to big family gatherings.

Why Open-Concept Living Is the Right Choice for the Holidays

1. Effortless Entertaining

The holidays are about spending time with loved ones, and an open-concept layout makes entertaining easier than ever. With a spacious, open floor plan, you can prepare a meal in the kitchen while still chatting with guests in the living room. No more feeling cut off from the fun while you’re preparing your infamous holiday dishes—everyone stays connected, even if they’re in different areas of the home.

2. More Room for Festive Gatherings

Whether it’s a large family get-together or a casual holiday brunch with friends, open-concept living provides the space you need to entertain comfortably. Our Bardwell homes are designed to accommodate large groups, with expansive living areas that flow into spacious dining spaces. No need to worry about squeezing everyone into a small, crowded room; instead, enjoy a flexible layout that’s just right for mingling.

3. Natural Light and Holiday Cheer

The open design of Bardwell homes allows natural sunlight to pour into your living spaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere—ideal for those chilly holiday afternoons. Imagine the glow of your holiday decor illuminated by sunlight during the day, and sparkling lights in the evening.

4. A Space That Grows with Your Family

The holidays are a time when families grow closer, and having a home that can adapt to your changing needs is essential. Open-concept living is not only great for entertaining but also for everyday living. As your family grows and your needs change, these flexible spaces can easily transform into what you need them to be—whether it’s a play area for the kids or a cozy reading nook. Plus plenty of space to roll out sleeping bags or fold out couches for overnight stays.

5. Creating Lifelong Memories

At Bardwell, we believe a home is more than just four walls; it’s a place where memories are made. With an open-concept design, there’s plenty of space for everyone to gather around the table, share stories, and celebrate the season together. The spacious layouts we offer are designed to bring people together, allowing you to focus on what matters most—cherishing the moments you share with loved ones.

Where to Find Open Concept Living with Bardwell

At Bardwell, we’ve designed our communities like Highlandia, Clark’s Ferry, Terrabella and Inniswylde with spacious, open-concept floor plans that are perfect for modern living. These layouts seamlessly connect the kitchen, dining, and living areas, making them ideal for hosting family gatherings over the next few months. With brand-new finishes, natural light, and flexible spaces, these homes are crafted to enhance both everyday living and special celebrations.

Our latest community featuring luxury townhomes in Willow Grove beautifully embraces open-concept living. From the moment you walk through the front door, you’re greeted by a spacious flow that seamlessly connects the living area, dining room, and kitchen. These wide-open layouts are designed to enhance natural light and create a welcoming space for entertaining and everyday life. With plenty of room to move and gather, these townhomes offer both the elegance and functionality that make hosting family and friends a pure joy.

Open Concept House Plans - Perfect for Holiday Entertaining

Experience the Bardwell Difference This Holiday Season

As you prepare to host family and friends in the coming months, consider how a Bardwell home could enhance your holiday celebrations. Our open-concept designs are thoughtfully crafted to help you make the most of your space, whether you’re celebrating with a few close friends or hosting the entire extended family.

If you’re ready to find a home that’s as warm and welcoming as the holiday season, we invite you to explore our communities and see the Bardwell Difference for yourself. Visit our available homes page or contact us today to learn more and discover how we can help you find the right space to celebrate life’s most cherished moments all year long.

Happy holidays from all of us at Bardwell Homes!

Q&A on Curation and Design in Bardwell Homes with Interior Designer Laura Cedor

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Baton Rouge native Laura Cedor has always unequivocally loved design, architecture, and construction. And, Laura’s dedication to her clients and driven nature is what sets her apart as a designer. She is passionate about giving her clients a home that they love and making sure they feel comfortable and heard along the way. We sat down with Laura to discuss her design philosophy and how it impacts the custom and semi-custom home-building experience at Bardwell Homes. 

“My passion is to create timeless spaces that will shape the way families experience life, happiness, and love within their most sacred place, home.”

Tell us about your overall approach to design.  

Because I am a mom of five, I have a firsthand appreciation of the importance of a durable product. So, I strive to select finishes that will withstand real life, whatever that may look like for each individual client and family. Timeless design never compromises overall quality and functionality.

How do you balance functionality and aesthetics? 

This balance depends on each room of the house. For instance, the dining room in the front of the house where events like Christmas dinner, Sunday family get-togethers, and special moments will receive a different treatment in terms of fabric and finishes. 

How does good interior design impact the home experience?

Good design is very much individualized – it is all about emotion, comfort, and feel. Interior design textures and colors impact your emotions, so you have to consider how each person will use and appreciate the spaces. Ultimately, people want to feel comfortable and love the spaces within their home.  

How did your relationship with Bardwell Homes begin?

Our relationship began when one of my custom clients selected Bardwell Homes to build their forever home. I was extremely impressed with Bardwell and was excited to work on future projects with them!

Walk us through the interior design process for a semi-custom home vs. a custom home. 

The semi-custom home process offers a curated selection from a design team in which a homeowner comes in and designs based on these selections. This protects the homeowner and keeps them within budget while still giving a custom-feeling experience with the benefit of selecting from options for wood flooring, millwork, countertops, mirrors, and hardware.

On the other hand, the custom home process is a start to finish; the sky is the limit, and the selection of all fabrics, finishes, and materials for each space within the home.  This allows the homeowner to add a personal touch within all the elements of their home – with a larger point of emphasis on budget management, as a result.

What’s the collaboration process like with the client and Bardwell? 

When a client comes to Bardwell Homes, we host a creative meeting about their ideas, pictures, favorite paint colors, etc. In this first meeting we learn a lot about the homeowners’ goals. We hear how they intend to use the space, whether it’s their first home and they are about to get married or they are looking to downsize.

Once we have a full understanding of their vision, we start with big picture items, such as exterior paint, front doors, roof, brick, windows, interior doors, interior cabinets, plumbing fixtures, and cabinets. After that initial meeting we have one or two additional meetings to select the more detailed design elements.

How do you manage budget constraints with the design goals, even if the client’s needs or vision evolves over time?

Budget constraints happen in every single job. I educate my clients that we do not need to include every trendy detail and that there is a way to prioritize what is the most important to them. For instance, my client wanted a beautiful white marble kitchen countertop. To stay within budget, we changed materials in spaces that were not as visible. Still a beautiful product, but we do not need to use the most expensive finish in every room. As a designer, my goal is to guide my clients to the best returns with the biggest personal impact.

What is the client communication process like? 

I am extremely hands on with my clients… We call, text, DM, email, see each other at sporting events, and go out to lunch. When LCI is involved we are ALL IN. Communication is everything.

What advice would you give to homeowners considering a custom build? 

Decide on your designer and architect at the same time! Architects have the big vision, and they work with you on creating the sizes of spaces. Designers work with you on how you live in and experience the space. It makes the process flow much better when they can collaborate from the start.  

What inspires you? 

My family is my inspiration, and they inspire me to be better every single day. My children are my personal inspiration, and my husband is my biggest supporter of my personal and professional aspirations.

Can you tell us about one of your favorite projects?

Oh, that’s easy! I just recently finished one of my all-time favorite projects this spring. Not only was the house design elegantly jaw-dropping, but most importantly, these clients fully trusted my vision from day one, and for that, I will forever be grateful. I really define my success based on the level of the relationship I have with the client.

It’s what matters most for a successful project. The design and everything that goes into the decision-making process leading up to the final product comes naturally when the relationship is strong. This translates into a happy homeowner!

Do you see any trends that you believe are here to stay? 

Warm color is definitely coming back! Warmth, cozy, and color is coming back!  

Work with Laura Cedor 

Laura has worked on designs in the TerraBella community,  but she is available to design in any Bardwell community. If you’d like to learn more about working with Laura Cedor on a Bardwell Home, contact us.

Why Now is the Best Time to Build Your New Home

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Are you considering building a new home?

Whether you’re planning to buy new construction or looking for a move-in ready home, moving is always a big decision, and it’s often a question of timing.

  • Is now the right time for my family?
  • Will we find a home that meets our needs in the long run?
  • Are we ready to make this large investment of money, energy, and resources?

Real estate market conditions also play a substantial role in making an informed decision that you can feel good about.

Right now, we’re experiencing a unique combination of limited housing inventory, stabilized  mortgage rates, and attractive financial incentives. So, if you’re looking to invest in new construction, this is a great time to explore the benefits of building a new home.

Navigating the Current Housing Market

The current housing market does not have enough supply to meet the demand, with a national shortfall of approximately 2 million homes. Since the pandemic, this imbalance has intensified competition and inflated prices for existing properties. And it’s increasingly difficult to find and secure a home that works for your family.

Given the environment, building a new home is a smart move.

Opting for new construction allows you to create a home that aligns precisely with your vision and needs while also avoiding the limitations of existing inventory. Partnering with a reputable and experienced home builder enables you to ensure the highest standards of quality. With access to premium materials and a proven process, Bardwell Homes will tailor your new home to your lifestyle.

Financial Incentives and Falling Mortgage Rates

Recent trends in mortgage rates highlight another compelling reason to consider new construction. After hitting a 20-year high, mortgage rates have recently declined, creating better opportunities for prospective homeowners. Lower interest rates, combined with rising home prices, create a better financial landscape for building a new home.

In addition to lower interest rates, potential buyers can take advantage of various financial incentives, such as tax benefits and lower closing costs. These factors make new construction a more affordable, accessible option, enhancing its value as an investment compared to purchasing an existing property.

Building Equity and Ensuring Long-Term Value

Your home is likely to be the most significant purchase you make in life, and making an informed choice is important for securing long-term value. If you build a new home at this time, then you benefit from favorable financing conditions and lock in a price that reflects current market trends.

As property values continue to rise, your investment is well-positioned for appreciation. 

Custom homes and semi-custom homes offer distinct advantages in this context. A custom home allows for a meticulous alignment with your lifestyle requirements, ensuring that your residence balances your functional and aesthetic preferences. Alternatively, a semi-custom home strikes a balance between personalization and convenience, providing pre-designed options that still cater to your individual tastes. 

The Advantages of New Construction

New construction offers a range of benefits that will significantly enhance your living experience. One of the key advantages is the reduced need for maintenance. When every element of the home, from the roof to the appliances, is brand new, the likelihood of unexpected repairs and maintenance issues is greatly diminished. This not only offers peace of mind but also contributes to a more predictable and manageable living environment.

In addition, new construction gives you the opportunity to design a home that precisely suits your family’s needs and desires. Whether through custom design or semi-custom modifications, you can ensure that every detail aligns with your vision, resulting in a new home that truly reflects your lifestyle and aspirations.

The Distinction of the Custom and Semi-Custom Home Experience

Choosing the right home builder is fundamental to your experience, and Bardwell Homes stands as the choice for excellence in Baton Rouge and beyond. With our proven process and meticulous attention to detail, we cultivate custom home-building experiences that marry luxury and practicality. Our approach ensures that each home is a testament to superior craftsmanship and personalized service.

For those seeking a fully customized experience, you can build a custom home with Bardwell and design a home that is uniquely yours, tailored to every specification and preference. Alternatively, our semi-custom homes offer a curated selection of designs with room for personalization, combining elegance with efficiency.

Discover The Bardwell Difference

So, if you’re considering new home construction, the current market does present you with a good opportunity. With the ongoing shortage of existing homes, favorable mortgage rates, and attractive financial incentives, now is an opportune time to invest in a new, custom-built residence. In partnership with a trusted home builder, like the team at Bardwell Homes, you ensure that your new home will not only meet but exceed your expectations in terms of quality, design, and long-term value.

Whether you opt for a custom home or a semi-custom home, the benefits of new construction are definitively substantial. Enjoy reduced maintenance, the potential for equity growth, and the ability to create a residence that aligns with your lifestyle. It’s a good time to buy new construction and build the home you’ve always envisioned. So, embrace this opportunity to secure a home in one of Bardwell’s communities and experience the beauty and intentionality of traditional neighborhood living.

If you’re looking for a new home in Baton Rouge, peruse our selection in Clark’s Ferry, Willow Grove, Harveston, or Inniswylde for beautiful communities conveniently located to city life amenities. For those interested in a move to Covington, learn more about our recent acquisition of new lots in TerraBella.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is 2026 still a good time to build a new home?

Yes — despite shifts in mortgage rates and material costs, 2026 remains a favorable time to build due to stabilizing interest rates and limited housing inventory. Starting construction now lets you secure today’s pricing and avoid the steep competition for existing homes, which are still in short supply.

2. Will building a home now cost more than buying an existing one?

Not necessarily. While new construction can seem more expensive upfront, you often save long-term through energy-efficient features, new appliances, and lower maintenance costs. Plus, with current builder incentives and financing options, you have plenty of options to make an affordable, worthwhile investment. 

3. How do mortgage rate changes affect new home construction?

Even small dips in mortgage rates can make a big difference in affordability. When rates stabilize or drop, you can qualify for a larger loan amount or secure better terms. Many homebuyers choose to lock in rates early during the building process to take advantage of market shifts.

4. What financial incentives are available for new home construction?

Depending on your lender and builder, incentives may include reduced closing costs, rate buydowns, or tax advantages tied to energy-efficient home features. Bardwell Homes can connect you with trusted mortgage partners who specialize in new construction financing.

5. Is it cheaper to buy land and build or buy in a Bardwell community?

Buying within a Bardwell community offers predictable resale value due to pre-developed lots, optimized home plans, and established neighborhood amenities. Purchasing your own land offers flexibility but can introduce higher upfront costs for site prep, permits, and utilities. 

Bardwell Homes Expands Presence in Covington, LA with New Commercial Building in The Terrabella Village

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Bardwell Homes is thrilled to announce the opening of our new commercial building in TerraBella Village, Covington, LA. This second location enhances our commitment to providing outstanding service and exceptional homebuilding experiences in one of the Northshore’s most vibrant communities and beyond.

Bardwell Homes has now expanded operations to Covington, LA.

Investing in the Northshore Region

As proud members of the Northshore Home Builders Association, Bardwell Homes has welcomed the opportunity to build 20 homes in TerraBella and has secured additional lots in its latest development phase. These new achievements demonstrate Bardwell Homes’ commitment to continuing to grow and giving families thoughtfully designed homes.

Known for our construction in communities throughout the Greater Baton Rouge area, we are thrilled to bring Bardwell’s distinctive design to TerraBella and the Northshore region.

Homes in Terrabella Village built by Bardwell Homes.

Custom and Semi-Custom Homes with Southern Luxury 

At Bardwell Homes, we build homes that blend classic luxury with Southern charm. Our new office in TerraBella Village will act as a central hub where clients can explore their homebuilding options. Not only that, clients will have direct access to expert guidance and professional care, which makes Bardwell a trusted name in residential construction across South Louisiana. 

Recently, our team visited the TerraBella site to see the construction start of our new office and spend the day viewing our latest projects together while taking in the unique character of TerraBella and its influence on our home designs. Walking the grounds in person is an integral part of how we design homes that complement the natural landscape and charm of each community.

The Bardwell team.

TerraBella Village: A Return to Intimate, Communal Living   

TerraBella Village brings back the charm of traditional neighborhoods within the thriving city of Covington. This community focuses on creating a close-knit living experience with walkable streets, a village square, and year-round events that foster connection among residents. It’s the perfect setting for Bardwell Homes’ latest project.

Danny Bracey, Sales and Marketing Executive for Bardwell Homes, shares, “The community of TerraBella Village checks a lot of boxes for us as a community builder with walkable streets, strict architectural guidelines, green spaces, and a live-work-play atmosphere. We are grateful to be one of a select few approved builders and look forward to having a greater presence in one of the fastest-growing parts of Louisiana.” 

The Terrabella Community opens its arms to Bardwell Homes, who recently broke ground for their second base of operations.

Discover the Charm of Covington, LA 

Covington, LA offers a unique blend of Southern style and modern convenience, making it a prime location for families and professionals in the Northshore region. Known for its scenic beauty, vibrant community spirit, and historic allure, Covington is rapidly evolving into one of the most desirable destinations for families and professionals alike. 

As the area continues to grow, the expansion of residential communities like TerraBella promises thoughtfully designed homes that offer contemporary amenities while preserving a sense of tradition. Building a new home in Covington means access to top-notch schools, recreational activities, and a thriving local culture. With the city’s ongoing growth, it’s an ideal place for those looking to invest in a new home. 

Community amenities in Terrabella Village.

Experience the Bardwell Difference 

At Bardwell Homes, a commitment to quality and personalized service is at the heart of everything we do. Renowned for our construction in the Greater Baton Rouge area, we are dedicated to creating exceptional communities, homes, and commercial properties.

Clients looking to custom-build a new home or semi-customize one of Bardwell’s existing floor plans can expect a seamless and rewarding experience. With meticulous attention to detail, our team works closely with clients to develop a deep understanding of their needs in order to bring their vision to life. By combining thoughtful design with Southern elegance, we craft homes that are both beautiful and functional. From selecting finishes to finalizing design elements, we handle every step with care and expertise, treating each project as if it were our own home.

Bardwell Homes provides homeowners with custom and semi-custom options for their home.

Available TerraBella Homes: Embrace Style, Space, and Quality 

At Bardwell Homes, we’re excited to showcase our latest offerings in the beautiful TerraBella Village, where exceptional design meets unparalleled craftsmanship. Starting from the $500,000s, our homes range from 2,139 to 2,726 square feet, providing ample space for families to thrive.

With a variety of floorplans featuring 3 to 4 bedrooms and optional home offices, there’s a perfect fit for every lifestyle. Embrace the opportunity to create a stylish and comfortable living environment in this vibrant community. Your future home in TerraBella Village is just around the corner!

Homes in the Terrabella community.

Available in October 2024!

Discover Lot 912 in TerraBella: 138 Sage Alley, Covington, LA 70433 – $619,900

Introducing the Naples house plan, a delightful 3 bedroom and 2.5 bathroom layout. Two elegant French doors at the front of the home open to the living room, dining room, and kitchen, providing plenty of natural light. This home also boasts an office, a mud, and a utility room. At the other end of the main living area is the side porch, which is ideal for outdoor entertainment or for enjoying a morning cup of coffee. As you make your way down the corridor, you’ll find the bedrooms and a spacious home office. The primary suite and bathroom are beautifully designed, with a grand walk-in closet. At 2,335 SF, this design ensures privacy and tranquility, keeping the bedrooms separate from the livelier areas of the home. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this beautiful floor plan your new home.

For more information about Bardwell Homes, our new office in TerraBella Village, or to explore available homes and custom home options, visit our website or contact us directly.

Lot 912 in Terrabella Village is currently under construction.
The house plan for Lot 912 in the Terrabella Village.

Top 5 Things to Look for When Choosing a Custom Home Builder

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Building a custom home is a major investment – both financially and emotionally. It should involve meticulous planning, expert craftsmanship, and a transparent, collaborative relationship between you and your home builder. You want a custom home builder with a trusted reputation and proven processes who integrates your creative input while maintaining exemplary design standards. While it can be a daunting choice, here are five things to look for when choosing a custom home builder and why Bardwell Homes could be the right fit for you. 

Reputation and Expertise

When selecting a custom home builder, the first thing to note is their reputation and expertise in the industry. Look for builders with a track record of successful projects and satisfied clients. Since 1946, Bardwell Homes has built a reputation for experience and consistent quality. For three generations, we’ve proudly served the Baton Rouge community. 

Our legacy of craftsmanship and innovation defines every project we undertake. Our expertise is evident in every floor plan, each design concept, and each professionally selected detail that goes into your home. With a long heritage of visionary entrepreneurs, our team at Bardwell Homes continues the tradition of constructing and selling a variety of homes, including custom builds, pre-solds, and spec homes throughout South Louisiana.


Craftsmanship and Quality

When building your new home, high-quality craftsmanship and materials are essential. Every home built should stand the test of time. At Bardwell Homes, we source only the finest materials. From the structural integrity to the finishing touches, we execute every detail with precision to create homes that are not only beautiful and artful but also functional and durable. 

What sets us apart as a custom home builder in Baton Rouge is our approach to working with professional trade partners. We prioritize relationships with expert tradesmen over seeking out the lowest bidder. This commitment guarantees consistent quality in every home we build, streamlining the entire process and making each custom home-building experience enjoyable. We build with integrity so that your Bardwell Home might serve your family now and for generations to come. 


Design and Development 

The design and development phase is crucial for ensuring your new home meets your vision and needs. At Bardwell Homes, we’ve developed a signature style and design process marked by luxury, innovation, and attention to detail. 

We design homes that simplify and enhance your daily life. Each finish is hand-selected by design professionals to meet the real needs of your family while maximizing space and style for all occasions. This design approach drives every Bardwell home build, reflecting our dedication to both the process and the final product. Before construction begins, we review every detail with you to create a comprehensive and interactive design process to ensure your vision and needs are integrated into your home with expert guidance and care. 


Communication and Process

At Bardwell Homes, we believe effective communication begins with transparency. Setting clear expectations and maintaining an open dialogue is crucial to your custom home build process and final product. Our disciplined approach to project management ensures that our projects are completed on time and within budget. So, our team will guide you through every step, making complex decisions like lot selection and plan design straightforward and effortless. 

You want a builder that offers you accessibility, clarity, and progress reports and updates throughout the experience of building your custom home, along with on-site meetings with you.  The journey on your future home begins with a contract agreement followed by design meetings with our professional team and your interior designer. No worries if you don’t have an interior designer.  We have you covered there, too, and can connect you with multiple options.  During the design phase, you’ll make the bulk of your design decisions. Once the design is complete, the construction team dedicated to your home will guide you through a detailed pre-construction meeting at our office, where we will review the site plan, the floor plan, and the electrical plan in detail for final review.  This structured approach guarantees that every detail aligns with your vision, setting the stage for a successful construction experience. 


Client Experience 

The best indicator of a superior builder is the client experience. It reflects the builder’s commitment to quality, service, and expertise. When a builder prioritizes the client, the results will be evident in every project. 

We build with intention and patience because it is our goal to create homes that are built for living. Ultimately, the client experience is at the heart of our business – it’s why we do what we do. Our approach is about more than beautiful aesthetics; it’s about creating intuitive, thoughtful designs that meet your needs now and in the future. At Bardwell Homes, we incorporate unexpected details that make each home truly inspiring and representative of the families they hold. 

Begin Your Custom Home Build with Bardwell Homes

Choosing the right custom home builder is pivotal to ensuring a successful and satisfying home-building journey. Bardwell Homes is a featured builder in numerous developments in the Baton Rouge area and beyond. In each of these developments, we are proud to showcase our legacy of craftsmanship, impeccable design, and proven processes that make each client experience exceptional. 

With Bardwell Homes, you’re not just building a house – you’re investing in an elevated vision for your daily life. 

Are you considering a custom home build? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how Bardwell Homes can build a home that’s uniquely yours. We look forward to meeting you.  Let’s get started on the journey that takes you home!

Designed for Lifelong Living: The Benefits of 2-Story Bardwell Homes

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Remember the thrill of buying your first home? There’s nothing like that first time buying experience as you explore potential houses and envision all the possibilities ahead. From entertaining friends at dinner parties to welcoming new babies into your family, your home is the backdrop to every season of life. But, how do you choose a home that will grow with you?

Bardwell Homes design houses for lifelong living. Whether you’re navigating singlehood or newlywed bliss, managing a busy household, or taking in the calm of an empty nest, Bardwell Homes evolve with you. Intentionally crafted to cater to each stage of life, our homes adapt to your needs as life unfolds, serving as the foundation for ever-changing family dynamics and the demands of daily life. 

Instilling a sense of belonging into a place is what makes a house feel like a home. And, it’s the driving force behind our thoughtful design in all of our new homes, including our 2-story residences.  

3 Benefits of 2-Story Homes

Discover the perks of our 2-story residences in Bardwell Homes where you can enjoy versatile and spacious living arrangements that cater to all seasons of life. With expansive main floors ideal for hosting guests and performing daily activities, and secluded upper levels for serenity and privacy, our 2-Story homes offer luxury, comfort, and functionality that will accommodate a variety of lifestyle needs and preferences. 

1. Built-in Southern Hospitality with Dedicated Space for Guests

2 Story House Plans in Baton Rouge

In many 2-Story Bardwell Homes, we place the bedrooms upstairs to prioritize a sense of privacy. Whether you’ve invited your old college friends to Baton Rouge to stay for a tailgate during football season or you’re keeping the grandchildren for the weekend, the 2-Story house plan provides plenty of space for entertaining without sacrificing comfort. 

Bedrooms upstairs also mean dedicated space for everyone throughout the day. While you enjoy peace and quiet downstairs, let your grandchildren spread out in one of the upstairs bedrooms for playtime… until they are ready to join you in the kitchen for a snack, of course. This 2-Story layout fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere within the downstairs living spaces, lovely for hosting parties and creating lasting memories, like sipping cocktails in the garden or baking cookies at the kitchen island. 

2. Convenient & Accessible House Plans with Downstairs Primary Suite

2 story home primary bedroom on first floor

In select 2-Story homes, we feature a master bedroom on the main floor, offering convenience and accessibility. The downstairs primary suite provides a seamless living experience, ideal for older homeowners who prefer to minimize the use of stairs in their daily routines. Furthermore, this layout also benefits individuals and families who want to enjoy easy access to essential living spaces without compromising on luxury and comfort. 

When you partner with a trusted builder like Bardwell Homes, your vision matters. Imagine customizing your downstairs primary suite to suit your personal lifestyle needs: perhaps adding dressers to your spacious walk-in closet, upgrading your luxurious ensuite bathroom with wall sconce lighting, a full-glass shower and free-standing tub, or incorporating artful finishes into your space. Through thoughtful design, Bardwell Homes provides the personalization you need to ensure that your home evolves with you. 

3. Bonus Space Offers Flexible Living Solutions

bonus space in 2 story home - 2 story home office

Unlock the potential of bonus space in your Bardwell Home, providing invaluable versatility that caters to every stage of life. Whether you envision a fully-loaded gaming center, a smart home office, or an at-home gym, our thoughtful design creates flexible living solutions that empower you to make the most of your space.  

As remote work continues on its upward trend, transform your spare room and set up a functional home office with customized built-in cabinets and desk. Optimize the space to your needs and create an environment that inspires productivity, so that you can work from home in comfort and style. 

As a proven builder, our custom design and planning process allows you to craft your bonus space with luxurious details that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Choose from a range of options, such as built-in shelving for storage, lush lighting fixtures, or integrated smart home features that streamline your daily life. Whether you’re starting a new hobby, pursuing professional endeavors, or simply seeking a quiet retreat, our flexible living solutions elevate your experience at home. 

Available 2-Story Homes in Baton Rouge and Covington


New Home in Covington, Discover Frankfurt in TerraBella: 

TerraBella | Lot 418 | Frankfurt A - 2 Story House Plans in Baton Rouge

This charming home offers modern amenities amid a serene community. The Frankfurt model boasts an expansive floor plan with approximately 2,000 SF of downstairs living space, excellent for entertaining friends and handling daily household affairs. This includes a primary bedroom, guest bedroom, large living room, dining room, kitchen, and second full bath. Thoughtfully designed, the downstairs not only gives you plenty of space in the main living areas, but also offers a private retreat in the form of an extensive primary suite featuring a spa-like primary bath complete with a large walk-in closet, double vanities, and a separate shower and soaking tub. Upstairs features a loft area with a spacious balcony, two additional bedrooms, and a third full bath making it a great option for potential home offices or play areas.

New Home in Baton Rouge, Discover Barcelona in Harveston:

HARVESTON | LOT 102 | BARCELONA A - 2 Story House Plans in Baton Rouge

This sophisticated residence offers customizable features and access to vibrant community amenities. This 2-story plan features an absolutely captivating grand entrance that blends style with functionality. Embrace an open concept living, dining, and kitchen area overlooking a covered side porch, wonderful for intimate gatherings or backyard parties. The private primary bedroom includes a spa clad bath with a soaking tub, separate shower, and spacious walk-in closet. Upstairs, find two bedrooms and a third full bath, along with a large loft/common space ideal for a play area, living room, or a bonus room.

Find your next home with Baton Rouge home builder, Bardwell Homes – where we embrace every season of life. Contact us today to learn more about either home for sale mentioned above or our other residential construction sites and communities in Baton Rouge, LA. Browse through our website or schedule a visit to experience the Bardwell difference firsthand. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do I decide between a one-story and a two-story home? 

It depends on your current lifestyle and your vision for the future. Two-story homes can provide a greater feeling of privacy, with separate floors for the living areas and bedrooms or flex spaces for guests. A design-focused builder like Bardwell Homes can help you weigh the pros and cons to create a sanctuary for lifelong living.

  1. Are two-story homes harder to maintain or clean?

Not necessarily. Modern two-story designs emphasize efficient layouts and easy access. Thoughtful features such as first-floor laundry rooms and primary suites and smart storage make daily maintenance and cleaning simple without adding extra effort.

  1. Can a two-story home work for an older couple?

Yes. Many Bardwell floor plans include a primary suite on the main floor, minimizing the need for stairs in daily life. With wide hallways, open layouts, and accessible bathrooms, we build homes to adapt to you as your mobility needs change.

  1. Does a two-story home cost more to build than a one-story home?

It varies. Construction costs depend on materials, finishes, and square footage, but two-story homes can sometimes be more cost-efficient per square foot since they require less foundation and roofing area. They also offer more living space on smaller lots, which is ideal for high-demand neighborhoods. 

  1. Can I customize the layout of a Bardwell two-story home?

Absolutely. Bardwell’s semi-custom design process allows you several options to personalize floor plans, select finishes, and add functional upgrades such as built-ins, bonus rooms, or smart-home features. The goal is to create a space that grows with you and your family.

  1. How can I make sure my new home fits future family changes?

Choose a plan that includes adaptable spaces, like bonus rooms or flex areas, that can shift from a nursery to a home office or guest suite. Bardwell’s homes are intentionally designed to evolve alongside life’s stages, from young families to retirement.

  1. Where can I tour Bardwell’s two-story homes in person?

Bardwell Homes is currently building in several Baton Rouge and Covington communities, like Harveston and TerraBella. You can schedule a visit or browse available homes online to explore our designs firsthand.