Building a custom home is an exciting time, but it's not without its challenges. Starting from scratch provides you with the best opportunity to maximize space and minimize renovations at a later date.
Open Versus Closed
Open floor plans are gaining popularity because it makes the area feel more spacious and reducing interior walls can make construction less expensive. Generally, open areas consist of the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Instead of these being distinct areas, the configuration is created to be one large area with subtle transitions from one area to the next. Typically, furniture is used to denote the transition between each. Another advantage of an open floor plan is lighting. Whether you are using natural lighting or light fixtures, the light can easily illuminate multiple areas because it is unobstructed by walls. If you choose an open floor plan, your home can benefit from a skylight, bay window, and/or patio window, since these will provide the most natural light.
Kitchen And Bathrooms
The kitchen and bathrooms require careful consideration because they are areas people are more likely to want to be remodeled later. An island in the middle of the kitchen is ideal not only for food prep, but it can serve as a dining area, especially if you host parties. If you cook extensively, your needs may be more complex. You might want an island that can accommodate burners and a prep sink. The main sink should be a dual sink large enough to accommodate pots and pans. Many home chefs prefer a side-by-side refrigerator or one with the freezer drawer on the bottom. This means you will need adequate space to maneuver in the kitchen when the doors or freezer drawer is open. Two ovens stacked on top of each other are a good option because avid cooks may want ovens with different fuel sources.
Much like kitchens, spaciousness is important for bathrooms. Most households benefit from at least two full bathrooms. Having a half-bathroom for guests is also ideal. The major challenges with bathrooms are not having enough vanity space, especially for the master bathroom, and having adequate space between the toilet, shower, and vanity. Whether you have a separate bath and shower or a traditional combined one will be a major consideration. Although a combined tub and shower takes the least amount of space, it is also less user-friendly than a walk-in shower. If a person has mobility issues or is older, a walk-in shower and/or tub will be more versatile.
Additional Spaces
The planning stage is an ideal time to consider basements and outdoor space. If you live in an area where creating a basement is possible, you should consider having one as a place of refuge. In localities with a higher risk of tornados, a basement can be life-saving. If you cannot have a basement or simply do not want one, consider creating a safe room. The safe room will be configured to be on the first floor and in the middle of the home. There may be reinforced walls, as well. The objective is to have a location without windows that offers significant protection in case of a tornado. A safe room can also be functional. It can serve as a closet or pantry. Creating outdoor space is also popular. An enclosed patio is a good option because it can be used even when the weather is not ideal. An outdoor kitchen or grilling space is a nice addition and tends to be especially attractive if you sell the home later.
Being more meticulous about how you configure and use your space will reduce the chance of renovations later. Building a home that works now and can easily accommodate changing needs will be a good investment. For more information, contact a custom home building service near you.
