Therefore, the entrance does not have to be there, does it? Where would south be?
It does not have to be this floor plan, but it is one of your favored house companies, showing that it can be done differently, even with a country house.
In Yvonne's example floor plan, one could definitely separate a hallway between the stairs and the dining area. I would like this floor plan with one or two adjustments. I think you should stick to a landing staircase like this.