Interior Design Advice for New Construction Homes
Building Unique New Construction Homes
Determining the Desired House Design
There are two aspects of house design that should be thought of when in the process of building a new construction home:
One: Exterior House Design
House design can vary from state to state or from person to person. Some states, areas, counties, towns, and even streets have particular exterior home aesthetics that can inspire the exterior home design of a new build. Nevertheless, exterior finishes ultimately come down to the preference of the homeowner. Moreover, even if the aesthetic of the neighborhood is matched, it does not mean that the house has to be boring or lack its own uniqueness.
In fact, there are many aspects of exterior home design such as:
Siding
Houses can have a multitude of different types of siding and all of them have different benefits. The best way to choose the right type of home siding would be to choose one that fits the desired aesthetic of the home, but also one that is appropriate for the climate in which the home resides.
Some of the most common types of siding are:
Wood
Vinyl
Metal
Brick
Stone
Fiber Cement
Stucco
Imitation Stone/Brick
Engineered Wood
Concrete
Each type of siding has different pros and cons. An experienced designer or builder can help to point out which one is best for the job at hand.
Roofing
Roofing not only comes down to actual material, but also shape. A few common roof shapes are: Gable, Mansard, Hip, Saltbox, Flat, Bonnet. However keep in mind there are a multitude of different ones beyond the ones listed. In some cases, a few different styles can sometimes be combined to create a more dramatic effect.
Additionally, some roof shapes are more dependent on regulation than just aesthetic. The climate of an area can determine what shape roof is appropriate for a house. This is again why it is imperative to have an experienced designer and builder on any new construction project.
When it comes to the material of a roof, there are many different types such as:
Asphalt
Metal
Slate
Clay
Concrete
Again, much like siding, each different type of roof material has pros and cons.
Windows
Windows are a vital aspect of every home and it is extremely important that they are thought of from an interior and exterior perspective. It is very common to think about the exterior of a home and where windows look “good” without thinking through where they will be placed in the interior of the home. If this is not thought through well, the interior of the home might not make any sense.
In terms of aesthetic, there are many types of windows. The good news is that, like roof shapes, a few styles of windows can be used.
A last note on windows, remember they are more than just aesthetic. Windows let the light in a home, so if the new home design is meant to be happy and cheerful add more windows. If the home is more intense and edgy a couple windows may be given up.
Landscape
Do not forget about landscaping! Landscaping is the icing on the cake of any house design. It gives the house more character, makes the home personal, and most of all emanates the home's ambience before walking through the door.
Plus, landscaping and outdoor space is not solely decorative. Outdoor living spaces can be a great deal of fun. Think cabins, cabanas, pool shacks, fire pits, patios, outdoor bars, etc. All of these spaces facilitate fun and entertaining outdoor environments. Intertwined with the right landscaping, these spaces often become some of the most used and memory filled places.
Two: Interior House Design
The home interior design is vital in a house remodel because the interior of a home determines the energy in a home. Not to mention, the interior design is a reflection of the homeowners personality. A home should feel...like home! So, remember to find a designer that can make the soul of the home match that of the homeowner.
During the construction phase, the interior layout should be thought about in depth. It is important to identify where key rooms will be as well as which rooms will be connected to one another. The overall structural layout will affect the interior design concepts. For example, the kitchen is a vital aspect of any home and the kitchen design should effortlessly flow into the rooms in which it is connected.
Although a new construction home should always have an interior designer on board, there are some cases in which a designer is not hired. Here are some key elements to getting the interior project started with a designer:
Make A Mood Board
Having a vision for yourself or to show the designer. A mood board will allow for ideas to flow and will provide a clearer direction for the project as a whole. If the ideas are jumbled on the board, expect the ideas to be jumbled in real life.
Order Samples
Samples give the opportunity for different elements to be looked at without spending an exorbitant amount of money and without wasting precious time. Carefully choose select colors and fabrics to come as samples to determine if the true color, touch, and feel are as desired.
Take Measurements
The most common design mistake is not taking proper measurements. Be aware...the human eye is deceiving! Too often people order tables, chairs, couches, etc. that are either too large or too small for the space. The easiest fix is to simply buy a tape measure!
Add Finishing Touches
Do not underestimate decor. Plants, books, pictures, knick knacks, etc. all help bring a room to life. The best way to add finishing touches is to have a combination of decor items. Shoot for some sentimental items and a few decorative accents.
Book a Consultation
RCQ Design is known as best interior designers in Bergen County. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Hiring a full time designer may not be in the budget, but a few consultations never hurt. If the homeowner already has a great design sense, a full time designer may not be wanted. Even so, sometimes a little bit of designer insight can make a world of a difference.
Enjoy It
New homes can equate to stress, but it is extremely important to try to keep things light throughout the process. A stressful and dragged out timeline will lead to resentment in the home and that is to be avoided at all costs!
Be patient, take deep breaths, and do not forget to keep living life. New inspiration and perspectives can come in the most unexpected places.
