tahjah, it has been so many years since I've done work in VI that I couldn't remember if the interior walls were also cmu. However, here's a version of your plan, it assumes you don't *need* two toilets. Or if you do, you can add one to the open space in the Main Bath. With this entry into the powder area, the powder can also work on a daily basis as an enclosed toilet room for a couple living in the home. There is also no information regarding the windows, so I followed your lead re: the tub. There is plenty of room for tub and shower, you just need to decide what type/size tub first, then the shower will fall into place. This also affords more opportunity for built-ins at the sink areas. And plenty of room for doors, toilets, sinks and shower. I hope this helps!

Check out (local) building codes concerning handicapped people. Over here in the Netherlands there are quite a few. For example a person has to be able to help the handicapped in all occasions, so there needs to be ample space around toilet and shower. Consulting a specialized architect will be worth it in the end (and prevent mistakes).

Thank you all for your comments. We initially tried to design a new lay out of the first floor on our own - but did eventually succumb to hiring an Architect. He came highly recommended by a neighbor - and although a sweet man - he was not able to come up with lay-outs that were appealing or functional for our needs and desires. We are almost complete with the left side of our 1st floor plan and ready to move on to the next phase - the right side (drawing attached). We will not be using the plans that were presented by our Architect and would like to start fresh. I would like to add that Our Architect had nothing to do with permitting nor did he have anything to do with our Contractor. The Contractor we are working with achieved all permits necessary - without any problems. I will post more pics of our home in its current state. Perhaps this will be helpful with further comments. Thank you all for your time. -

I would definitely go with the Rockland. The layout is just generally better and I actually prefer the narrow upstairs bath layout for kids. It has a much better dining area and the kitchen is nicer and has the breakfast bar, which I would definitely want with kids. Are you planning to have any more kids? If not, those bedrooms are plenty for two boys, especially with the loft/media space on the second floor. You can always add a desk if you want one. I've never liked the built-in desks. The mud room area at the back of the house will likely be really nice for muddy shoes, etc. instead of having it tracked across the house. Also, the powder room off the stairs in the Bowman is a bit odd... The Rockland does have a bit less storage, but I think you get more good living space out of it, so you'll have to decide if that works for you. Can you make any adjustments to these layouts? I would guess you could switch the windows in the dining area for a sliding glass door, though the "valet" exit doesn't seem inconvenient to me.