Future-proof your home
When planning your home design, it’s crucial to think of the future. But how far ahead should you be planning? One of the key questions our New Homes Consultants ask our clients is ‘how do you see your life in 5 years?’ This foresight creates a great starting point from which to design your dream home. Whether it’s starting a family, a growing or maturing family or becoming empty nester, there’s some simple design tips that future-proof your home for any stage of life.
Layout
It’s best to think about two things when it comes to your home layout – room placement & function. Think about your family & where you see the ‘zones’ of the home. For example, do you want your growing kids to have their own area at the back of the house?
From a function perspective, it’s important to think about the purpose of each room and how it can be adapted in the future. For example, a fourth bedroom could serve as a great home office or gym for now, then can be converted back into an extra bedroom when the time comes! Building a home is a big deal, so it’s important you don’t outgrow your home in a couple of years.
Backyards
For those unsure of how to make use of their backyard space, having it paved is always a good idea. If you decide to include decking in the future, you can move the pavers to fill around the side of your home – saving you money and resources! For those who dream of having a pool, but it isn’t in the cards right now, include a no service area. A no service area is simply an area that is clear from plumbing and electrical wiring. This leaves you room to include a pool when the time is right.
The Bathroom
The bathroom is an area that is difficult to change once complete, so it’s best to be future-focused when planning this space
Hob-less shower:
If you’re a downsizer or expecting to have elderly parents move into your home, a hob-less shower may be the way to go. Removing the hob means you won’t have a small step to get into your shower, making it perfect for anyone needing wheelchair access or wanting to avoid steps altogether.
Adjustable showerheads
Another tip for the shower is to have an adjustable shower head in the minor bathroom. This means you can adjust the shower to your kid’s height as they grow.
The Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home and were we spend the majority of our time as a family. Having a kitchen that matches your lifestyle and needs is crucial.
Island bench
The size of your island bench can make a huge difference in the ease and adaptability of your kitchen space. The larger the bench, the more room you have for cooking up a storm or entertaining during the holiday season. For growing families, a large island bench is a great location for a homework station or a kid’s breakfast bar.
Power points
Power points are something you are constantly in need of and can be stressful when there isn’t enough available. Think about the appliances you need to have plugged in day-to-day and then the extra appliances you need during entertaining. Places to include additional power points are; the wall next to your hotplate, in your pantry/scullery for the everyday bulky appliances, the cupboards under your island bench or on your island bench itself. The more power points you include when planning your home can save you from stress down the line as your lifestyle changes or family grows.
Looking for more ways to future-proof your home? Talk to our prestart consultants before your prestart meeting to ensure your home is one to grow into.
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