Tips on Designing Your Own Floor Plan

Written by Posted On Tuesday, 26 March 2024 00:00

Building a new home can become a great source of stress if you haven't done thorough planning. In addition to choosing finishes, you will need to determine the best layout for you and your family. It's also important to consider any custom electronic options you want. Finally, your security is key.

Keep Things Easy

While simple living is all the rage, you may not be interested in minimalist design. However, it is important for busy adults to design their homes in a way that keeps things easy.

Do you enjoy outdoor activities such as working on your own lawn or in your own garden? Make sure the entrance you'll use the most after these activities is easy to access and that you have a place to dump your muddy shoes. If you have or are planning to have young children, make sure that the first stop in from the garage or the bus has a durable floor that's easy to clean.

Focus on Flow

As soon as you step into your very own home, you'll likely start shedding things. It may be a briefcase or work boots. You'll also want to de-stress as you move into your home.

Design choices may include an easy-to-access closet with cubbies and chargers for electronics. If you're planning a custom home sound or lighting system, create a spot for those controllers.

For those who like to entertain, it's critical to have plenty of kitchen space for people to gather. An open floor plan is a wonderful way to invite guests into the heart of your home. Plan for an island or a peninsula if you'd like your guests to gather in this crucial workspace.

A Word on Security

Security cameras aren't just for your front door anymore. If you're away from home for long periods of time, or will have children home alone before you get home from work, the ability to check in on your kids and make sure the interior of your home is secure and safe is crucial. Plans for these tools will need to be made before the walls go up.

Natural Light for a Healthy Brain

The placement of windows and skylights can go a long way to making your home both happy and healthy. Natural light is critical to good brain health and quality sleep.

If nearby houses are closer than you would like, consider putting in frosted or textured windows to allow for natural light without the view. Also, skylights that allow venting are a great way to bring in both sunshine and fresh air.

Not a morning person? Plan your sleeping space away from the rising sun, or avoid a lot of east facing windows. You can enjoy plenty of light with south-facing windows and still sleep in!

Build In Some Decadence

Everyone needs a little pampering. As with keeping things easy, it's different for every one of us. If you need surround sound in the laundry room, plan this while the walls are open. For those who've always wanted a giant tub, now is the time to treat yourself.

Let this spill into your yard. If your spouse loves to grill, consider building a deck with plenty of space and wiring for a smoker or pellet grill. Few of us can get every luxury we've ever wanted in our homes, but with proper planning you can get at least one feature you've always wanted.

Home design is a lot of fun but also puts a lot of responsibility on the shoulders of the buyer. Work with a designer or architect that is willing to put in the time discussing the things you need and the items you really want.

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