We’ve talked about making the transition from renter to homeowner, but if you’ve never built a home before, where do you even start? And how do you make sure the design you choose will suit your family and your lifestyle? From pet-friendly planning to a home that matches multigenerational needs, we’re breaking down 5 things you might want to consider when building your new family home.
Multigenerational design
If your future home will one day need to comfortably accommodate extended family, ensuring you have an adequate number of bedrooms is the first priority. Consider how these might be configured to accommodate people at different stages of life. For instance, you may choose to opt for a floorplan that includes two or more larger-sized bedrooms with ensuites to accommodate more adults.
Double-storey house designs are also a fantastic option, as they offer more space but typically require less land. For homebuyers considering this option, keep in mind that it may be a good idea to have a bedroom on the ground floor to help avoid stairs for older family members. You might also consider adding a small kitchenette to create a totally separate living quarter.
Lastly, don’t forget to consider extra storage, noise reduction, additional bathrooms and whether living spaces are big enough to accommodate many adults living together harmoniously.
If you’re not sure where to start, visiting a display village or getting in touch with our team at Ortus is a great way to get an idea of home and land sizes available.
Parental areas
A private space just for the grown ups is a trend on the rise. Not only does it add an element of luxury, but it brings much needed privacy to a family home.
A parent’s retreat starts with a main bedroom with an ensuite, but homeowners are also opting for added extras like walk-in-robes and quiet seating nooks. These small spaces can be quite multifunctional, perfect for a television or a secluded home office away from the rest of the house.
Pet-friendly places
Of course, when it comes to designing a home for the whole family, we can’t forget the fur children!
If you have a dog, think about whether you can integrate a little space for them that could double as their sleeping area and whether you need extra storage for their things.
Also, consider hybrid or laminate flooring to stop wear and tear from little canine paws. Another trick is to make sure you have windows that are orientated north, this is perfect for naps in the sun!
Finally, look for a pet-friendly masterplanned community like Ortus. Somewhere that gives you easy access to parks, walking tracks and essentials like vets, pet stores, groomers and dog wash facilities.
A home office
The remote working way of life took off in 2020 – and it’s well and truly here to stay!
If space is tight, a study nook is a good option. Somewhere that you can at least keep your computers and your screens all set up, so there’s no need to pack everything away every day.
If you’re lucky enough to have space to build a complete home office, be sure to include plenty of storage, a window and adequate power points for all your electrical needs. This space will be a highly utilised area of the home for working parents, but also kids who need somewhere comfortable to do their schoolwork.
Kids’ spaces
Speaking of, the kids need their own areas to make mess and noise too! Many modern home designs cater for this need, with some floorplans incorporating a rumpus room or a whole wing of the house dedicated to kids’ bedrooms.
Whatever you choose, the biggest thing is to include storage, after all, kids have a lot of stuff! Consider a mix of cupboards and drawers that allow things to be stashed away and open shelves that give kids the option to display their prized possessions.
At the end of the day, don’t forget to have fun, after all, you’re designing your dream home!
If building sounds like the right path to get your foot on the property ladder, get in touch with our expert sales team to learn more about land and townhome opportunities at Ortus. But get in quick – limited lots remain in our boutique Cranbourne East community!