Here's a very interesting and simple plan modification that would work with the 2-story Universal Cottage (http://www.jshow.com/y2k/listings/57.html) plan and the wrap around porch.
(https://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g166/jraabe/wrap-around-porch2.jpg)
Notice that the roof is still a simple gable and the rafters are carried over the notch-back by the extension of a header buried in the load bearing wall. (Use something like a double 2x10 with 2/3 of it's length in the wall over the windows.) That weight could also be carried by an angled bracket back into the front wall.
That's a great idea. A complex look by a simple change. :)