Planning a new build or renovation is not for the faint hearted. There is a lot to consider, and this can sometimes feel daunting even to those within the industry.
Browse through the pointers below as these aim to break down the main components of planning your new home. Starting with the big questions and working down through the levels of detail is a worthwhile approach.
This helps set out the “non-negotiables” as opposed to the “negotiables”. Everything has a price, and many people are unaware of potential knock-on effects associated with a seemingly “nice” feature or the use of alternative and trendy materials. That is why Adaptive Engineering Solutions want to inform our clients through our blogs and free consultation offer.
1. Basic Information
Size: How many square meters/square feet do you want the house to be? Bigger is not always better. A smaller footprint with stand out features are becoming more popular.
Number of Floors: Do you want a single-story, two-story, or multi-story home?
Number of Bedrooms and Bathrooms: How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want vs. need?
Additional Rooms: Do you want a home office, gym, guest room, or any other specific rooms?
2. Layout Preferences
Site layout: Is your site level raised, lower or sloping in comparison with surroundings? Can a stepped feature or alternative use of levels be incorporated into the design?
Orientation: Where is your East – South – West to capture natural light? Are there potential sun traps that can be utilised internally and/or externally?
Open vs. Closed Layout: Do you prefer an open concept with large, connected spaces, or more defined, separate rooms? Maybe a combination of both, open living spaces with more defined resting quarters?
Dos and Don'ts: Often overlooked but do you really want a bathroom beside your kitchen or a plant room adjoining your living room... practical considerations play their part.. think of potential issues and how layout may affect a speedy resolution if issues occur.
Flow: How do you want the spaces to flow? For example, should the kitchen connect to the living room, or would you like a separate dining room?
Staircase: If applicable, where would you like the staircase to be? Should it be a statement feature or more discreet?
3. Exterior Design
Style: What architectural style do you prefer (modern/contemporary, traditional)? Do you want a standout feature, large glass façade or use of modern cladding, or both?
Facade Materials: What materials (brick, wood, stone) and colours are you envisioning for the exterior?
Roof Type: Flat, gable, hip, or something more unique?
Outdoor Spaces: Would you like a porch, balcony, deck, or patio?
4. Interior Features
Kitchen: What size and layout would you prefer for the kitchen? Would you like an island, pantry, or specific appliances? Make sure you give your kitchen planning the time it needs, this is the centre piece in most modern, open layout homes.
Living Spaces: How large should the living and dining areas be? Do you want a fireplace or specific window styles?
Bedrooms: Do you want en-suite bathrooms? How big should the master bedroom be?
Bathrooms: Do you prefer a bathtub, shower, or both? Double vanities or single?
Storage: Would you like walk-in closets, built-in shelving, or a large laundry room?
5. Special Features
Sustainability: Are you interested in green features like solar panels, a green roof, or energy-efficient windows?
Technology: Would you like a smart home system integrated into the design?
Outdoor Features: Is your garden a priority? If so, don’t forget to budget for this or maybe it can be put it further down the list in terms of timelines.
6. Costs
Finally, what are the cost implications of your preferred build?
In the very near future, AES will be launching our own residential cost estimation tool, which will ask you all the above questions, factoring in your location within Ireland, so that you can understand the implications of your design choices.
This will provide a high-level guide to help you, our clients, determine what really are the “non negotiables” and “negotiables”!
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