The Complete Guide to the 1983 Harrison 245521 Manufactured Home:
The 1983 Harrison 245521 is a classic single-wide manufactured home model that represents a pivotal era in the industry. Built by Harrison Manufactured Homes (a brand associated with Fairmont Homes and later Cavco), this model is known for its efficient use of space and durable construction. At approximately 920 square feet with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, the 245521 floor plan was a popular and practical choice for its time, providing a comfortable living solution that was both affordable and well-designed.
Whether you’re a current owner, a prospective buyer, or simply an enthusiast, this guide will provide a detailed look at the floor plan, original features, and modern renovation ideas to help you understand this iconic home. SparkSpitter Candles: Elevate Your Home Décor and Ambiance
Understanding the 1983 Harrison 245521 Floor Plan
The floor plan of the 1983 Harrison 245521 is a masterclass in single-wide efficiency. The home measures 15’4″ x 60’0″, with a layout that prioritizes a seamless flow from the living area to the kitchen and dining space.
- Primary Layout: The home features an open-concept living area at the front, which flows directly into the kitchen and dining space. This design, common in 1980s homes, was a move towards more social and connected living spaces.
- Bedrooms & Bathrooms: The two bedrooms are typically located on opposite ends of the home. The primary bedroom is larger and includes an en-suite bathroom, a sought-after feature in manufactured homes of this era. The second bedroom is located near the main living area, with easy access to the second full bathroom. This separation provides privacy for occupants.
- Hallway: A central hallway connects the primary living space to the bedrooms, ensuring a logical and functional division of the home.
The strategic placement of the bathrooms and the open living area makes the 920-square-foot footprint feel much more spacious than its dimensions suggest.
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Original Features and Construction Details
Understanding the original build of a 1983 manufactured home is essential for any potential renovations or maintenance. The Harrison 245521 was built with a focus on durability and the design trends of the decade.
- Exterior: The exterior typically featured Royal Double 4″ Dutch Vinyl Lap Siding and an Owens Corning® 25-Year Shingle Roof. The nominal 3/12 roof pitch was standard for manufactured homes of this period.
- Interior Finishes: Inside, you would have found textured stippled ceilings, often known as “popcorn” ceilings. The home also came with rebond carpet pad and Congoleum flooring in the wet areas. Kitchen cabinetry was often shaker-style with Formica countertops and backsplashes, reflecting the popular aesthetics of the 1980s.
- Construction: The home was built with a robust foundation of 16″ O.C. floor joists and 19/32” tongue & groove OSB floor decking. The insulation ratings—R-11 for floors and R-29 for the ceiling—were up to the standards of the era, ensuring a reasonable level of energy efficiency.
Modern Renovation Ideas for the 245521 Model
While the 1983 Harrison 245521 is a great home as-is, its solid construction makes it an excellent candidate for modern updates. Here are some ideas to bring this classic home into the 21st century:
- Open Up the Space: Consider removing the wall between the kitchen and living room (if it is not load-bearing) to create a truly expansive, modern open-concept space. This is the single biggest change that can dramatically transform the home’s feel.
Kitchen & Bathroom Overhauls:
- Replace the Formica countertops with modern, durable materials like butcher block, laminate, or solid surface countertops.
- Update the cabinetry with a fresh coat of paint or new shaker-style doors for a more contemporary look.
- In the bathrooms, replace the original 1-piece fiberglass tub/shower unit with a new, more stylish insert or a custom tile shower if the structure allows.
Flooring and Lighting:
- Tear up old carpeting and vinyl. Replace with modern Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring throughout the home for a seamless, durable, and waterproof finish that mimics hardwood.
- Remove the popcorn ceilings and replace outdated fixtures with modern recessed LED can lights to create a brighter, cleaner aesthetic.
Boost Curb Appeal:
- Update the exterior siding with a modern color and style.
- Add a new deck or porch to extend the living space and improve the home’s curb appeal.
The 1983 Harrison 245521 is more than a vintage floor plan; it’s a template for affordable and comfortable living that, with a few strategic updates, can be a beautiful and functional home for decades to come. Its reliable construction from a respected manufacturer makes it a gem for those seeking a home with character and endless potential.
