What style of house is characterized by having multiple levels that are staggered?

A split-level house is defined by its unique design that features staggered floor levels, allowing for a distinctive layout. This architectural style emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly popular in the 1950s and 1960s.

The staggered levels are typically divided into sections, with one part of the house being lower than the other, which helps to create an open feel while providing separation between living spaces such as the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms. This design offers practical benefits as well, often resulting in efficient use of space in neighborhoods where lot sizes might be smaller.

In contrast, the other styles mentioned have different characteristics: a Craftsman house is known for its handcrafted details, open spaces, and low-pitched roofs; a Bungalow house usually features a single story with a wide front porch and a compact layout; and a Prairie house tends to highlight horizontal lines, flat or hipped roofs, and integrates with the surrounding landscape through its design. Each of these styles serves distinct design intentions and practical uses, differentiating them from the staggered design inherent in split-level homes.