All About Split Level Homes

Split level homes are houses with a floorplan characterized by several small staircases and multiple, staggered levels. The best example in popular culture is probably the Brady Bunch house in California's San Fernando Valley. Remember how the Bradys had to descend four or five steps when they came in to the living room or climb them to get to the kitchen? (Read more about the history of the Brady house from the Los Angeles Times.)

According to Antique Home, split level houses are characterized by low-pitched roofs, deep eaves, rectangular or L-shaped floorplans, integrated garages and open interior layouts. Today, they're prime candidates for renovations. See before-and-after split level remodels on MSN Real Estate.

Split level houses became very popular in the 1950s, '60s and '70s, as a compromise between the modest bungalow and the more expansive ranch house. Realtor magazine says that split levels evolved from ranch homes, which had evolved from Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie house style.

Split levels are sometimes also referred to as "raised ranches." Other variations include the split entry--where the entryway leads to two staircases, one for bedrooms and one for living areas. Find more information on split level houses, visit SplitLevel.net.