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Split-Level Home

A split-level home is a house whose floor levels are staggered, so short flights of stairs connect levels that sit about half a story apart. Split-levels were widely built in American suburbs after World War II.

A typical split-level has an entry and living level, a bedroom level a few steps up, and a lower level a few steps down that may be partly below ground. A bi-level, or split-foyer, is a related design with the front door between two levels.

The design fits sloped lots and separates living, sleeping and recreation areas without a full second story.

Each level is measured separately. Levels at or above grade count toward living area, and a level that is partly below ground usually does not. See measuring a split-level home.