That sounds a lot like the way houses are (or used to be) built here in FL. One problem would be insulating the walls. Here in FL, or in Dominican Republic, that's not really a problem, but VA can get pretty cold. About the only way to do it is fir out the walls with strips of wood or metal to create space for insulation. Of course, then you'd have to have drywall or something over the firring. Houses like that are usually built on a concrete slab, which is pretty cheap and easy, although you need to be sure the footing goes below the frost line. The drawback is that things like plumbing will be under the slab, and thus nearly impossible to repair or move. Also, slabs tend to be cold and uncomfortable, being rough on the back and feet, plus anything you drop will shatter. Having lived on a slab for the past 30 years, I hope never to again.

Ronda,

I have built and designed a few homes like what you have described. I am originally from the caribbean and my hubby is from the midwest.
There is not a problem designing and building a home like the one your DH wants (and I bet longs), the only thing: It will be very expensive.
What you call a fake stucco is called Drivit (the generic name is EIFS) in USA.
There is basicly one stucco made out of portland cement. EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) has the appearance of stucco but is not an actual stucco, some people call it like that because they do not know the difference.
On the other hand if your DH wants the interior walls made out of blocks, those also have to be finished either with stucco or plaster. Think $$$$.
If you want a basement then it gets more complicated (or better yet more expensive) since you will need a slab and columns to support the first floor interior walls. You will need an engineer for the calculations.

One of my favorite sites has a home that maybe you want to see. Go to the link below, on the rigth click on portfolio / residence / Beachfront Residence, Dominican Rep. It is bigger than what you are looking for but maybe you can get some ideas.

Here is a link that might be useful: Beachfront Residence

Mmmmm, just had to say I love that Beachfront Residence marthaelena!

Wow, that beachfront home is BEAUTIFUL. I lived in the DR for about 3 years - in a modest apartment, nothing like that example! That example will also be great when it comes time to decorate.

And yes, I also think the concrete slab definitely has some negatives. I'm hoping to get some wood flooring in some rooms but we'll see what hubby says! Can't tell you how many dishes me and the kids broke - and scrambled to clean up before our son stepped on a sliver! While here the youngest drops things and they generally bounce on the wood. I am looking forward to radiant heating though - we currently live in a big 1920's drafty house and pay alot for forced air oil heat - which isn't very comfortable.

I'm glad to hear this is possible to do. Like I said, we have a year or two to plan; I've been lurking here reading and learning ALOT since just December.

Thank you so much. If you come across any other resources let me know.