One of the biggest things our team has learned after designing and building hundreds of homes is this:
"We'll figure that out later."
Those are some really expensive words in homebuilding.
Not because they're wrong, but because some of the easiest decisions to make before construction begins become some of the hardest - and most expensive - to change once construction is underway. The truth is:
The best time to solve problems is before anyone picks up a shovel.
And, that's why we spend so much time in the pre-construction process and sometimes ask questions that seem... well... a little random! Trust us - there's a reason we ask!
Here are just a few conversations we have with many homeowners during the custom home planning process.
It's not just about the Christmas tree - Thinking through placement, storage, outlets, and more can set your holidays up for success.
We also talk about things like: Do you have only a few decorations or could you outfit the set of a Hallmark Movie? Where will you store them? Are there any extra outlets needed? (HINT: Consider one on the mantel or up a stairway for garland lights!) Where will the tree go? Do you host big gatherings? Will your table work with all the leaves extended or are you ok with setting up folding tables?
It's not just about the pool - Even if a pool is years away, planning for it now can save money (and headaches) down the road.
While we're thinking about the backyard: Thinking about a hot tub? A playset or a tree house? Will you ever own a golf cart or 4x4 and need access to a garage in the back? Plans for a future fence or patio? How about a gas grill or a future fire pit? What about where the sun hits during prime porch-sitting hours?
It's not just about the KitchenAid mixer - There are two types of bakers - one that proudly displays their mixer on the counter and another that hauls it out once a year for holiday cookies.
Other things to consider in the kitchen: Are you a gourmet chef or a microwave lover? (HINT: Consider venting your range hood if you love cooking adventures - especially aromatic foods!) Where will you drop your mail and prop up your cookbooks? Love baking? Maybe you need a Kitchen Aid mixer cabinet and extra pantry space for spices and sprinkles? Where will you actually eat dinner and is the space big enough for your family? (Without pointing fingers... many of us eat most meals at the bar top or *gasp* in front of the TV!)
And, the list goes on! The reality is that some decisions are much easier - and much less expensive - before construction ever begins. That's exactly why our custom home design process starts long before a shovel ever hits the ground.
Long before construction begins, we're helping clients make decisions that save time, money, and future headaches.
Around here, we believe great design isn't just about beautiful kitchens or spa-worth bathrooms or impressive curb appeal - it's about how you, the homeowner, will actually use the home and how it will work five, ten, or twenty years from now.
Whether you're planning to build next year or five years from now, it's not too early to start asking the right questions.
We'd love to help!