A split-level house is a style of house in which the floor levels are staggered. There are generally two short sets of stairs, with one running upward to a bedroom level, and another heading downward toward a basement area. While commonly referred to as a bi-level house, it’s important to note the distinction. A split level house features at least three different levels, including the areas referenced above along with the initial level you enter when you first walk in. This middle level typically hosts the kitchen, dining room, and living room, although there are no steadfast rules in modern builds. Meanwhile, as the name infers, a bi-level house features just two levels and is more common to Ranch-style properties. It’s the former that we are focusing on today, as split level houses are commonly found throughout the Greater Vancouver area.

If you’re searching for split level house interior design in the BC Lower Mainland, you’e arrived to the right place. Reach out today for a FREE phone consultation, or first read below for insight regarding key considerations for your soon-to-be enhanced interior.

4 INTERIOR DESIGN UPGRADES TO CONSIDER TO ENHANCE LIVING IN YOUR SPLIT LEVEL HOUSE IN GREATER VANCOUVER BC

DEDICATED ATTENTION TO THE STAIRWAYS

As alluded to in the introduction, stairways are what connect the spaces of a split-level house together. Consequently, interior design should focus on these highly functional structures. Upgrades and enhancements should consider stairway lighting installations, refinishing/overlays/coverings of steps, custom handrails, and more. View our guide to Stairway Interior Design for deeper insight and inspiration.

ADDING NATURAL LIGHT

Because of their design, split-level houses often struggle to receive an ample amount of natural light. To correct this innate design “flaw” install recessed lighting on the main floor and install a skylight in one or more of the rooms on the top floor. Windows in the basement, main floor, and upper floor can be replaced with larger ones to increase access to natural light. For a more dramatic upgrade to open access to artificial and natural light, partitions and walls may be outright removed.

DESIGING FOR DEDICATED SPACES

Split-level houses are especially accommodating to self-employed persons and those who are able to work from home. The accommodations allow separation from living and leisure spaces and permit relevant occupants to work/perform free from daily household distractions. If this applies to you and/or others in your household, follow these tips to Interior Design for Home Offices and Studios.

SEMI-SEPARATE LIVING QUARTERS?

Split-level houses are also ideal for when family households desire semi-separate living quarters, such is often the case when teens become adults (but aren’t ready to leave home) or for when the in-laws move in (sorry about that). Split-level house attics and basement suites can be converted into entirely unique living spaces. Interior design in this case, should consider the distinctive tastes and needs of occupants and which levels they will reside within.

Furthermore, interior designers will work closely with contractors should renovations be required to add bathrooms and kitchens to additional levels of the home, Moreover, if there are special requirements - such as with senior members of a household - an interior design can advise contractors on how to proceed.

Ready to upgrade the interior design of your split level house for optimal living? If it’s located in the Greater Vancouver BC area, call Calvert Design Studio for a FREE 20-minute phone consultation.