Shotgun houses are making a comeback and for good reason. Their narrow, elongated structure makes them ideal for small urban lots, affordable builds, and efficient layouts. Whether you’re building your first home, investing in a guest house, or downsizing, shotgun house plans offer a smart, space-savvy solution.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best shotgun house plans available today. We’ll break down layout types, size ranges, and the design features that maximize functionality without sacrificing style.
What is a Shotgun House?
A shotgun house is typically a single-story home no wider than 12 to 20 feet. The rooms are arranged in a straight line from front to back, with no hallways separating them. You enter through the front door and can theoretically fire a “shotgun” straight through to the back door without hitting a wall, hence the name. While this may seem like a quirky concept, it’s incredibly efficient for narrow lots and small budgets.
The original design often followed a simple sequence: a living room at the front, followed by one or two bedrooms, then a kitchen and bathroom in the back. The layout was straightforward, logical, and made the most of every inch. Though early versions didn’t prioritize privacy, modern plans often solve this with smart tweaks like side hallways, double layouts, or second-story additions.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Width | Usually 12–20 feet wide |
| Length | Often 3–4 times the width |
| Layout | Rooms arranged front to back in a straight line |
| Floors | Typically 1, but sometimes includes a partial 2nd floor (a “camelback”) |
| Hallways | Usually none – rooms are connected directly |
Why Choose a Shotgun House?
Shotgun homes aren’t just a cool throwback. They make sense today more than ever. Here’s why:
Charming Design – Historic feel, cozy vibes, and great curb appeal.
Affordable to Build – Simple framing and fewer materials = lower cost.
Efficient Use of Space – No hallways, no wasted corners.
Perfect for Narrow Lots – Slide one in where others won’t fit.
Lower Utility Bills – Small home = less to heat, cool, and clean.
Who Are Shotgun Houses Great For?
| Homeowner Type | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Minimalists | Just the essentials, organized efficiently |
| First-time buyers | Affordable path to homeownership |
| Backyard ADU owners | Perfect for rental or guest house |
| Urban dwellers | Ideal for narrow city lots |
| Investors | Smart layout for duplexes or Airbnb |
Most Popular Shotgun House Plans
Let’s break down the top layouts that make shotgun homes so livable and flexible.
1. Classic 1-Bedroom Shotgun (400–600 sq ft)
This is the purest version of the shotgun. Walk in through the front porch, pass through a small living area, and continue into the bedroom, kitchen, and finally, the bathroom at the rear.
Why it works: Ideal for minimalist living, short-term rentals, or backyard builds.
Pro Tip: Add a skylight or side window to keep the central rooms bright.
2. Side-Hall Shotgun (700–900 sq ft)
A side hallway runs the length of the home, giving each room private access without having to pass through another. Think of it like a traditional home reimagined for a narrow footprint.
Layout Highlights:
- Living room at the front
- Two bedrooms on one side
- Kitchen and bathroom at the back
- Continuous hallway on one edge
Why it works: Preserves privacy while keeping the layout efficient.
3. Double Shotgun Duplex (900–1,200 sq ft)
This plan places two mirrored shotgun units side by side under one roof. Each unit has its own entrance, living space, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom.
Perfect for: Investors, landlords, or families with live-in relatives.
| Unit | Rooms | Estimated Rent Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Left Side | 1 bed, 1 bath, kitchen, living | $1,000/month |
| Right Side | 1 bed, 1 bath, kitchen, living | $1,000/month |
Bonus: A double shotgun can be your home + your income stream.
4. Camelback Shotgun (1,000–1,400 sq ft)
A camelback adds a partial second story to the rear of the house — typically to make space for a private suite or office. It preserves the original footprint but adds serious square footage.
Why it works: Great for families or remote workers who need more room without giving up a compact lot.
Top Feature: The second story is subtle from the street, preserving the historic curb appeal.
Realistic Cost Estimates (USA, 2025)
| Size (sq ft) | Budget Build | Mid-Range Build | High-End Build |
|---|---|---|---|
| 400–600 | $60,000–$90,000 | $90,000–$120,000 | $120,000+ |
| 700–900 | $90,000–$130,000 | $130,000–$170,000 | $170,000+ |
| 1,000–1,400 | $120,000–$180,000 | $180,000–$240,000 | $240,000+ |
Factors that affect cost:
- Foundation type (slab is cheaper than pier & beam)
- Material choices (vinyl vs. fiber cement siding, laminate vs. hardwood)
- Local labor rates
- City permitting fees
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, if you’re planning to build or remodel a shotgun-style home, choosing the right floor plan is just the beginning. To truly bring your vision to life, you need tools that are precise, easy to use, and built for efficiency, just like the shotgun house itself. That’s where MSMV Design Software comes in.
Whether you’re working with a narrow lot, customizing a side-hall layout, or adding a camelback extension, MSMV gives you the power to design accurate floor plans with drag-and-drop simplicity. From layout planning to cabinet placement, it’s the perfect companion for small, smart living. Try it today and see how effortlessly your ideal shotgun home comes together.
