This is No Small Plans, a series where we highlight some of Dwell’s best floor plans for real, practical inspiration. It’s never easy to pinpoint the origins of an enduring architectural type.

For example, the Fox Run House Plan is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, 1,000-square-foot abode. That may not sound like much; however, the home’s features give it a bright, airy feel.

The Generic Modular Prefabricated Tiny Home includes two bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room, and a veranda. The residence is customizable, expandable, and has an open floor plan with large windows.

Design Hotline is a new column dedicated to solving real people’s home problems. Here, writer Diana Budds speaks to experts to help a reader maximize their small-home floor plan. Question: I ...