We designed the house to share with friends. The extra living area on the first floor has been ideal for kids, teenagers, young couples, or grandparents. It allows folks to spread out a little and do their own thing. It works as a "noise reducer" when you don't have so many folks talking at once. Even the 3rd floor has 2 separate spaces for friends to slide away from the TV to talk and catch up, while others watch sports, or their favorite shows.
And the house was built for our growing children - to have space for them at every age.... and enough space to be together for meals, but have some down time, quiet time at others. As they grew and were older- they were free to head to the beach in a group because it was close by, but we could play safely in the sound with the littlies.
The location at the center of the island is rarely crowded, and we have privacy in our subdivision - no condos, large buildings sitting on top of one another. We can play in our backyard, wander in the sound, but have easy access to a small amusement park, the state aquarium, and several historical sites. Deep sea fishing and charters are near-by, and lots of local restaurants.
The "reverse" design -putting the living area on the top floor - allows for great views, and a sense of wonder, living above the noise. You really feel like you are away from it all.