Walk-out bungalows offer the best of both worldsâmain-floor living with seamless access to the outdoors. Whether youâre planning your forever home or building your next lifestyle upgrade, modern walk-out bungalows combine functionality, beauty, and connection to nature in all the right ways.
Our showhome in Lakewood of Strathmore is a perfect example this. Custom built bungalows should feel expansive, convenient, and built around you. Here are the must-have features we recommend when designing a modern walk-out bungalow:
1. Open-Concept Main Floor
Modern living is all about flow. A spacious, open-concept main floor brings together the kitchen, dining, and living areasâperfect for entertaining, family time, or just enjoying the views. High ceilings and wide sightlines make the space feel airy and inviting.
Pro Tip: Add clerestory or transom windows to flood the space with natural light while maintaining privacy.
2. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection
The walk-out level is your bridge to the outdoors. Make it count with large sliding or folding glass doors that lead directly to a covered patio, firepit, or landscaped yard. Itâs more than just a basementâitâs an extension of your living space.
Must-have idea: A lower-level bar, lounge, or games area with walk-out access to a hot tub or backyard entertaining zone.
3. Main-Floor Primary Suite
A hallmark of bungalow living is main-floor accessibility. A luxurious primary suite with spa-inspired ensuite, walk-in closet, and private patio is a nice to have.
Bonus features:
Heated floors in the ensuite
Freestanding soaker tub with a view
Dual vanities and built-in makeup desk
4. Functional Mudroom with Storage
Whether you're coming in from the garage or backyard, a well-designed mudroom keeps the mess at bay. Include built-in storage, a bench, laundry access, and durable, easy-clean finishes.
Family-friendly tip: Add a dog wash or utility sink if you're an outdoor-loving family.
5. Walk-Out Basement That Feels Like an Upstairs
Gone are the days of dark, closed-in basements. A modern walk-out bungalow should feature a lower level that feels bright, open, and full of life. Think full-height windows, in-floor heat, and thoughtful lighting.
Great lower-level uses:
Guest bedrooms
Home theatre
Fitness room
Rec space or teen lounge
6. Covered Outdoor Living Spaces
Extend your living area outside with covered decks, patios, or even a screened-in room. A fireplace or ceiling heaters can turn this into a four-season retreat.
Outdoor essentials:
Composite decking for low maintenance
Glass railing to keep the view open
Built-in speakers or lighting for ambiance
7. Energy Efficiency and Smart Home Integration
A modern bungalow should be as smart as it is beautiful. Include energy-efficient windows, high-performance insulation, and smart home tech like:
Lighting and thermostat control
Security system
Automated blinds
Integrated sound system
8. Timeless Materials and Finishes
Trendy is fun, but timeless is lasting. Choose natural materials like wood, stone, and warm metals for a look that will age beautifully and ground the home in nature.
Designer tip: Use consistent materials across both floors to visually connect the spaces and maintain cohesion.
9. Aging-In-Place Friendly Design
Even if you donât need it now, a bungalow is a perfect layout for aging in place. Consider wider hallways, zero-step entries, and blocking for future grab bars in bathrooms. Future you will thank you.
10. A Home That Reflects You
Above all, your walk-out bungalow should reflect your story. Whether that means a reading nook, a wine cellar, a workshop, or a yoga studio, the âmust-havesâ are the ones that make it yours.
Build Your Custom Walk-Out Bungalow with Scott Alan Custom Projects
At Scott Alan Custom Projects, we donât believe in one-size-fits-all homes. We build for lifestyle, for beauty, and for legacy. Your walk-out bungalow should feel like freedom âconnected to nature, customized for comfort, and built with purpose.