Laplante Construction Proves There’s No Downside to Downsizing

Written by Stella Tirone | Originally published by Boston Design Guide Cape & Islands

There is something to be said for downsizing, and Laplante Construction knows all about it––think compact and convenient spaces fitted with all the luxuries of a larger home. 

“We’re doing a lot of construction now for empty nesters who are looking to sell their large, two-story homes and downsize to one level,” says Bill Laplante, president since 2003, adding that this gives clients the opportunity to put space into rooms that they actually use, like kitchens, dinettes, family rooms, and primary suites. 

“We spend a lot of time digging in and finding out how the client is going to live in their home, so that we can design for the way they live,” says Bill.

Nearly 70 percent of Laplante’s new construction has become executive ranch-style homes that are a downsize. Many have open-concept floor plans and feature steam showers, custom cabinets, and livable basements. 

And the popularity of one-story living isn’t confined to empty-nesters. Young families are also recognizing the convenience and utility of single-level homes.

“Many people are feeling less pressure to overbuild with more space than they actually need,” Bill explains. While reducing excess space––and utility costs––is a major bonus, less square footage does not equate to less luxury. Many people are downsizing, not for financial reasons, but because it just makes sense with where they are in their lives.

A recent Laplante Construction executive ranch build, perched on a hill overlooking the mountainous beauty of Western Massachusetts, exemplifies all the perks of a downsize. Custom designed and built by the firm, the home was planned as a no-fuss entertainment locale for family and friends. 

From the expansive, light-filled kitchen and main living space brimming with contemporary design, to a hidden cubby space under the staircase and a massive basement that is a game lover’s paradise, the home is all-encompassing. 

“We want to utilize every space,” says Bill of the cubby. “Those types of spaces can be used for a wine cellar, a safe room. It’s a good use of space that would normally just be filled in and capped with concrete.”

The classic white board and batten on the house is accented by stone veneer siding and a wraparound porch with slab stone steps leading up to the double door entrance. The home boasts details like quartz countertops and a dishwasher hidden by custom wood paneling in the kitchen; white oak cabinets and a quartz linear gas fireplace in the living room; plus a pool table, a golf simulator and a Brunswick two-lane bowling alley in the basement rec room.

This beautiful home proves itself as the perfect combination of compact living and luxury amenities.

Reach out if you’d like to downsize.