Two-Bedroom Garage Apartment Plan with a Two-Car Tandem Garage – Mercer 5
The Mercer 5 (#3954-V4) is a distinctive and versatile garage apartment plan combining a spacious tandem garage, a flexible first-floor room and a complete two-bedroom living space above. With its modern farmhouse architecture, warm rustic details, generous windows and two covered outdoor spaces at the front, this design offers plenty of character while making efficient use of a relatively narrow footprint.
Featuring a reverse living design, Mercer 5 places the main living areas on the upper level. This configuration provides elevated views and brings abundant natural light into the kitchen, dining area and living room. It is especially well suited to a narrow waterfront property, mountain setting, wooded lot or scenic natural environment where the surrounding landscape deserves to be enjoyed.
Mercer 5 can serve as a compact primary residence for a couple or small family, a comfortable cottage, a mountain cabin or a vacation home. Its thoughtful layout combines two bedrooms, bright living spaces, flexible rooms and generous garage space in a design created to maximize both functionality and views.
The first floor features an 824 sq. ft. tandem garage with room for two vehicles parked one behind the other. This configuration is particularly practical for a narrow lot because it provides substantial garage space without requiring an overly wide building. The garage also offers plenty of room for bicycles, tools, seasonal items, sports equipment and outdoor recreational gear.
At the rear of the garage, a smaller garage door provides convenient access to an uncovered 16' x 10' outdoor concrete slab. This practical feature makes it easier to move bicycles, lawn equipment, outdoor furniture and recreational gear between the garage and the yard. The slab can also provide a useful outdoor area for maintaining equipment or enjoying various activities.
In addition to the garage, the first floor includes 260 sq. ft. of finished living space. The main entrance is protected by an approximately 12' x 7' covered front porch, creating a welcoming arrival while providing shelter from the weather. Inside, the entry features a built-in bench and a walk-in closet for coats, footwear and everyday accessories.
A versatile room with panoramic views completes this level. Shown as a home gym on the floor plan, it could also become a private home office, creative studio, hobby room or flexible multipurpose space. A nearby powder room with a toilet and sink adds convenience to the first floor.
Upstairs, the 1,080 sq. ft. two-bedroom apartment is organized around a bright and inviting open-concept living area. The kitchen, dining area and living room flow naturally together, creating a comfortable setting for everyday life and entertaining. A fireplace adds warmth and character to the living room while creating an inviting focal point within the open layout.
The functional kitchen features a large central island with generous preparation space and casual seating. Its open design encourages conversation with family and guests in the adjoining dining and living areas. A built-in dining bench creates a cozy seating area near the windows, while an outdoor BBQ area located close to the kitchen makes grilling and outdoor meal preparation especially convenient.
At the front of the upper level, an approximately 12' x 7' covered balcony extends the living area outdoors. On a waterfront, mountain or wooded property, this sheltered space becomes an ideal place to enjoy morning coffee, read or admire the surrounding landscape. Its elevated location provides a broader perspective, while the roof offers protection from sun and light rain.
The private area includes two bedrooms. The primary suite features a walk-in closet and a private bathroom with a spacious shower. The second bedroom also includes storage and can comfortably accommodate a child, guests or other household needs. A second full bathroom, accessible from the hallway, conveniently serves the additional bedroom and main living areas.
The laundry area is located on the same floor as the bedrooms, helping simplify everyday routines and eliminating unnecessary trips between levels. This practical arrangement makes the apartment comfortable for year-round living as well as extended stays at a cottage or vacation property.
With its tandem garage, flexible first-floor room and complete two-bedroom apartment above, Mercer 5 (#3954-V4) can accommodate a wide variety of projects. It can become a distinctive primary home on a narrow lot, a family cottage with generous space for recreational equipment or a vacation residence designed to make the most of a scenic setting.
Combining a bright upper-level living area, two covered front outdoor spaces, a generous tandem garage and warm modern farmhouse architecture, Mercer 5 offers a functional and inviting solution for homeowners who want to maximize views without compromising comfort, storage or everyday convenience.
Distinctive elements
Spacious 824 sq. ft. tandem garage with room for two vehicles.
Rear garage door providing convenient access to a 16' x 10' uncovered outdoor slab.
260 sq. ft. of finished living space on the first floor.
Versatile room with panoramic views that can serve as a home gym or private office.
Welcoming entry with a built-in bench, walk-in closet and approximately 12' x 7' covered front porch.
Convenient first-floor powder room with a toilet and sink.
Bright 1,080 sq. ft. two-bedroom apartment located above the garage.
Open-concept kitchen, dining and living area with a warm, inviting fireplace.
Functional kitchen with a large island, built-in dining bench and nearby outdoor BBQ area.
Two upper-level bedrooms, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet and private bathroom.
Approximately 12' x 7' covered front balcony extending the upper-level living space outdoors.
Reverse living garage apartment plan designed for narrow waterfront, mountain or scenic lots.
Plan feature(s)
Open floor layout, Self-Build, Bench seat(s), Fireplace, Oversized garage, Island, Cathedral ceiling, Sloped ceiling, Master suite upstairs, Narrow lot, Covered patios, Entrance hall, Panoramic view, Walk-in master bed.
Plan architectural style(s)
Transitional, Modern farmhouse, Scandinavian, Cottage, chalet, cabin, Ski chalets, Modern rustic, Mountain, Modern Craftsman