Not everyone has the opportunity to design their own home. This is an exciting time but it is easy to forget some basic rules while creating overly ambitious designs. In fact there are several things you have to do while designing your house plan or you may find you have issues before you even start building..
- Style
The first step has to be checking the local regulations regarding what is permissible to be built on your chosen plot. The style of your hoe will be influenced by the buildings near yours. For instance you may find it difficult to convince a planner to let you build a tree house of glass in an area known for its period houses.
To an extent the style of your home must fit the neighborhood you’re joining.
- Utilities
Most people will consider how close the utilities are to their build site. After all, the closer they are the easier and cheaper it will be to get them connected.
If you haven’t thought about the utilities then you need to; especially if you’re planning to build in the middle of nowhere!
However, you also need to have a pipe locator survey completed. This will scan the ground under where you are building and make sure there are no utilities already there.
If you find utilities you’re going to have to check who has a right of access. It may also affect the positioning of your new house.
- Layout
It is important to consider what layout works best for you. Think about the houses you’ve lived and to decide if open plan is better or separate rooms. You’ll also need to consider whether you want two levels or just the one.
In addition the site must be taken into consideration. If it is hilly you may want to create a lower level in the hillside for a garage and perhaps a gym.
You’ll only get on chance to get the layout right so take your time thinking about what works for you now.
- Family Thoughts
You may be single or in a relationship but you do need to think about your future needs. If you would like a family in the future are you designing and building a house that will cater for your family?
This means having enough bedrooms for your children and perhaps making sure there are at least two bathrooms; it will make life easier with kids.
Again, this is something you should take your time over.
- Construction Methods
Finally you should also consider the construction method of your home. Standard techniques will probably be the cheapest but incorporating new technology may help to future proof your home and even reduce your ongoing bills.
You can also consider environmentally friendly techniques but you will need to think about how is going to do the actual construction work.
Again you’ll need to consider what materials will fit with the other properties in your area; it’s not usually a good idea to antagonize your neighbors before you’ve even moved in.
