Which housing style is typically characterized by its compact and straightforward design?

The cottage house is recognized for its compact and straightforward design, often embodying a cozy and quaint aesthetic. These homes typically feature a single-story layout and are smaller in size compared to other styles, creating an intimate living space that is efficient and functional. The styling emphasizes simplicity with gabled roofs, overhanging eaves, and often uses materials that blend with the surroundings, enhancing the feeling of warmth and charm. This design is well-suited to those seeking a practical yet charming living environment, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.

In contrast, craftsman houses tend to have more elaborate detailing and are larger structures that include extensive woodwork and built-in furniture. Split-level houses are characterized by their unique multi-level designs, which generally create a more complex layout than a cottage. Ranch houses, while they can be modest in design, are typically larger and emphasize horizontal layouts with open floor plans, which diverges from the compact essence of a cottage house.