Wish I’d Known
After gaining years of experience with designing and building custom homes, it fascinates me to look back at some of my first few projects and consider everything I have learned between now and then. Today I want to share with you a few things I wish I’d known before taking on my first big project. Whether you’re preparing for your first build or your forever home, I hope these tips give you a refreshed perspective on the ins and outs of custom home building, as well as some useful tips to consider along the way.
1. One story is the way to go if you have the land.
A single-story home makes the best use of square footage, as it minimizes wasted space on stairs or additional HVAC systems. However, if you don’t have the land, consider incorporating upstairs and downstairs laundry rooms next to the kids’ rooms. This is super helpful in new construction and will make your space more functional since you will not have to run back and forth as much. Another suggestion is opting out of a media room and instead doing a comfortable TV family room to get more bang for your buck.
2. You will go over budget…plan for contingencies.
Your designer should do everything possible to respect your budget, but often, going over budget is inevitable. You may be wondering, “How much should I plan to go over budget?”. The truth is that it looks different for every project. However, as a designer, I help my clients minimize this gap by developing realistic budgets at the beginning of the project. Learn more about what to expect when budgeting for your custom home or interior design project here.
3. Planning makes perfect…well almost.
The more planning you do, the less costly mistakes or delays you will encounter. One of the most expensive mistakes I am seeing right now is a lack of accurate space planning. This is especially common when looking at the planning and framing for storage closets or for the proper height of windows. Also, with the cost of lumber being so high, it’s important to look at how much space you have per room when designing a new build.
4. Go with the flow.
While planning is necessary to reduce error and oversight, be prepared that not everything will go as intended. In other words, expect the unexpected. No two builds are the same, and it might bring you comfort to know that some of the best designs are a product of challenges resolved on the fly. I remember one project where the architect planned for a freestanding tub, but we later realized there was not enough space. We decided to go with an undermount tub, which turned out to be amazing and much more functional for my client. Something else to consider is that details in certain areas simply cannot be planned. For example, adding trim to drapery cannot be imagined in a 2D plan. That’s why hiring a designer is crucial—we can see how different finishes and textures interact.
5. Build smaller.
One thing many designers won’t tell you is that sometimes, building smaller allows you to furnish it properly. Though the idea of having a big home with unlimited space sounds appealing, it won’t be so enjoyable when you have empty space you don’t have the budget to fill. From drapery and rugs to wallpaper and accessories, it’s important that your home is designed in such a way that every corner is polished, and no space is neglected. Don’t underestimate the power of a smaller home designed thoughtfully with your budget in mind! I promise, you will be far happier with the finished product. Click here for a handy guide on how to budget for furnishings.
As an expert designer specializing in custom home design-build projects, I’ve had my fair share of experiences that have taught me both what not to do, and what to expect. From budgeting to space planning, I hope these tips provide you with useful insight into the process of designing and building your dream home or completing a design or renovation project. Though things can get tricky and unexpected events may occur, just remember to have fun and trust the process—it will all be worth it in the end!