A house too small; no garage; traffic noise – these are just a few reasons cited as why some people hated their homes. And, privacy in the bedrooms and living rooms; adequate space for kids to play in the backyard; Jacuzzi bathtub in the master bathroom are some reasons people love their homes. There are many concerns you will likely consider when weighing all the options of your new home design; give each one plenty of thought.Your new home design might be one that you draft yourselves; a plan you buy outright from a developer; or (a little of both), a plan that you customize to more closely match your individual and family needs. Some important criteria when designing a new home are location, climate, cost and lifestyle.
Location: the geographical area where your house will actually sit; rural, urban or suburban. Is the lot big enough for the house? Expansion? Is there enough turning room in the driveway? Consider also the distances from your proposed home to your workplace, as well as shopping and other lifestyle amenities. Is it a new home community? Is the surrounding neighbourhoodwell developed? Growing?
Climate: the weather in the geographical area where your house will actually sit—what effects will the elements haveupon your house? Is the lot susceptible to flooding? Does it snow heavily in the area? Will the house receive adequate sunlight? Answers to questions such as these can reveal possible weak spots, and might warn of costly repairs later on down the road.
Cost: not only should the budget for your new home design factor in for building materials and labour,but also be aware of fees and taxes. Did you know that unheated areas in your house such as the garage, porch and attic are typically considered unfinished and are therefore not usually counted towards total square footage of the house plan? Insulating these areas will increase your heating costs but add to your total square footage. This is also the best time to map out all the electrical outlets you will require for every appliance and electronic component (home theatres, computers).
A current trend, due in large part to environmental sensitivities and in trying to find sustainable development practices to help save the environment, recent new home designs are more and more incorporating recycled construction materials, (example: wood timber from wall studs, and frames, joists, doorframes and window frames, paneling, stained glass, previously used plumbing taps and faucets).This can be a cost saver and a win/win for everybody.
Lifestyle: here is where you get to make your new home design your dream home. List out your own preferences, needs and wants for your household. Perhaps you need space for a home office, or even just a little room for hobbies like crafts and painting. It is all up to you, so dream big!
An overwhelming process, investing in a new home design takes time, effort and a lot of thought. However, the rewards of owning your own dream house you will find are quite satisfying. As the saying goes, “Home Sweet Home”.