Building your first home is, no doubt, an exciting endeavor. You have a blank canvas and a chance to create a space that reflects your personality and lifestyle. It is a chance to put all your ideas into reality. But with so many ideas and inspirations out there, it’s easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. To help you get started, this post will discuss some unique design choices that you can consider while building your first home.
Put in a Mudroom
A mudroom may not seem like a priority when building your first home, but it can add more functionality and organization to your house. A dedicated space for boots, coats, and other outerwear can keep your floors clean and tidy and make your daily routine more manageable. You can customize your mudroom to fit your family’s needs—add cubbies or lockers, benches, or even a pet washing station.
The best place to put a mudroom is near your main entrance, preferably close to the garage or back door. This location provides easy access for you and your family when coming in and out of the house, as well as a convenient spot to hang coats and store items like outdoor footwear. Another great spot for a mudroom is just off the kitchen—this allows you to quickly prep for meals or grab items on your way out. If space is tight, a mudroom can even be built into an existing hallway closet or laundry area.
Add a Flex Room
A flex room is an excellent addition to any home. It is a multipurpose room that can be transformed into anything you need it to be. It could be a guest room, a home office, a playroom, a gym, or even a movie theater. Having a flex room means having an extra room that can adapt to your changing needs as your family grows and evolves.
When building your flex room, you’ll want to invest in furniture that is both flexible and comfortable. Look for pieces like ottomans and futons that can be moved around the room as needed. You may also want to consider modular seating options so that you can easily reconfigure the layout of the room when necessary. To make sure your furniture stays comfortable in all configurations, invest in quality materials like breathable cotton fabrics or leather. With a few clever choices, you’ll have a versatile flex room that can quickly adjust to your needs.
Incorporate Natural Light
Another unique design choice to consider is natural light. Adding large windows, skylights, or French doors can brighten up any space and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Natural light can also save you money on energy bills by reducing your need for artificial lighting. Plus, it is beneficial to your health and well-being, as it can boost your mood and productivity.
Install a Flat Roof
A flat roof is a unique design choice that can add an interesting modern touch to your home. It provides more living space on the top of your house, which could be used as a rooftop garden or outdoor lounge area. Plus, it allows more natural light into the home and gives you an excellent vantage point for stargazing.
Flat roofs require less maintenance than traditional sloped roofs and are more energy efficient, as they can help reduce cooling costs. Additionally, flat roofs can be used to install solar panels or other sustainable systems.
When working with a contractor, such as JWF Roofing, to install a flat roof, it is important to make sure that the roof is properly engineered and constructed. Flat roofs require special attention when it comes to drainage, insulation, ventilation, and waterproofing. Make sure you work with an experienced contractor who understands the importance of these factors for your roof’s longevity and comfort.
Additionally, inquire about possible warranty options and materials to get the best value for your money. With a bit of research, you can work with a contractor to ensure that your flat roof is properly planned and installed for years of satisfaction.
Integrate Hidden Storage Options
Storage is often a concern for homeowners, especially for those building their first home. While closets and cabinets are great, they can take up valuable space and make your house feel cluttered. A unique solution is to add hidden storage.
You can install a hidden storage compartment under the stairs or a built-in storage bench in the mudroom. Consider a custom-made storage system that can blend seamlessly into your home’s design while maximizing your storage space.
Cultivate Outdoor Living Spaces
Don’t forget about your home’s outdoor space. Whether you have a large backyard or a small patio, creating an outdoor living area can add value and comfort to your home. Consider adding a deck, patio, or even a pergola to your yard. Add comfortable outdoor furniture, an outdoor kitchen, or a fire pit to make your outdoor living space more inviting
Put in a Loft
Lofts are a great way to add additional living space without taking up too much space. A loft is essentially an elevated space or platform, usually situated within the upper level of a home. Lofts create a cozy and unique atmosphere that can be used as an extra bedroom, office space, playroom, or even a lounge area.
They offer plenty of flexibility with their open-plan design and often feature skylights, balconies, or even a set of stairs for access. Lofts can add a unique touch to your home and create an interesting atmosphere that will stand out from the rest.
Building your first home is an exciting and rewarding experience, and these unique design choices can help make your house feel like a home. By incorporating them into your home design plan, you can create a space that reflects your lifestyle, brings you joy, and meets your needs. Remember to take your time, do your research, and work with professionals to design your perfect home. Happy building!
About the author:
Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. You can find her on Twitter and Facebook.