They say, ‘A man’s home is his castle!’ but it’s the functionality of the spaces, how they relate to each other and how other additional design features complement one another, that add to the overall look, feel and usefulness of the house.
Every build is different, each considering unique design elements and features that are as individual as the designers and homeowners themselves.
If you are fortunate enough to get the opportunity to design and build your own home, chances are that the design will be centered around the wants and needs of your family. There are so many home programmes providing visual stimulation for design ideas that can make even the most hardened home shopper drool in anticipation of all the fantastic features that could be incorporated into the design of their own home.
Before deciding on any features, be sure to do the necessary research in relation to practicality, feasibility and cost. If the design element is not functional, or it doesn’t add to the aesthetic value of the home, it could be taking away from another feature that would have been a much more pragmatic addition.
Top quality features will not only be useful butcould also add value to your property and even though you may be designing this house to be your ‘forever home’, wouldn’t it be nice to be assured of some additional equity in your property?
Consider quality features that will stand the test of time, particularly if you do see this build as a long-term investment, as well as those features that are regularly in demand. Longevity and in-demand; these are the types of features that are going to add the most value to your property.
Design features incorporate both tangible and abstract elements and it’s when these two elements mesh together effortlessly that the look, feel and flow of the home will benefit the most.
In-demand tangible elements may include such things as high-end aircon units, a generous garage or, how about adding some sustainability to your new build with some solar panels?
The abstract design elements that are important considerations in the design process relate more to the flow and lighting within the house; how the rooms and different spaces within the home relate to one another and encourage easy movement between the spaces, how the house captures and bounces light at various times during the day. Avoid awkward, cramped and confused spaces as these are usual culprits that affect flow, create dark crannies and confuse potential buyers.
Conversations and input from your architect and your builder are crucial to get the balance of these two different yet complementary, design elements right as each will be able to offer an invaluable perspective on the practical and aesthetic value of the elements you want to incorporate. So, dare to dream up your castle, and push the boundaries of design and concept but be sure to get the advice and guidance of the experts who will bring your dream home to life.
