Five things to consider when building a home
Before you sign on the dotted line, have a think about these tips to help your build run smoothly!
An increase in Government grants to stimulate the economy off the back of the COVID-19 pandemic has seen many Australians embark on the journey of building their own home. We’ve also seen a huge surge in DIY and home improvements as people spent more time at home than ever in 2020. Here are some tips to consider before you sign on the dotted line to create your Great Australian Dream.
- You can never have enough storage!
Whether you are empty nesters or starting your family – don’t forget the storage! While often overlooked, storage can be one of the most crucial elements to a happy, healthy, and organised living or work space. Don’t get caught in the trap of using storage to conceal the piles of clutter that don't have a designated “place”. Take the planning stage of your build to think about the things you use and where they may best “live” in your home. For excellent storage ideas check out Howard’s Storage.
- Make sure the grass is greener
Some have been caught out at how much landscaping can cost! While it’s often an afterthought, landscaping can have a huge effect on the look and feel of your home. It can also add value to your home, so it’s important to set aside a budget for landscaping, even if it’s only small. Don’t ruin the moment of taking possession of your new home just to have mud trekked through the house because you have no grass. Check out Rescape Design for some great transformations!
- Make the most of the sun
To make the most of the sun for warmth and natural light, your homes’ main living areas (or any rooms you use a lot) should face north. The main glazing in the house, such as windows and glass doors, should also face north. You may want to insulate your house and choose lighter colours to help achieve a high energy efficiency rating. For more great tips and tricks on how to make the most of the sun, check out Energy Australia.
- Stay switched on
Think about how you will use each room of the house and make sure you have enough power points. One for the coffee machine, the toaster and the kettle – one for your hair straightener and hair dryer. And don’t forget the bedside tables! USB sockets are a neat and tidy way to charge your phone while not compromising on style. They supply current at a higher voltage than USB ports on your computer, meaning the USB wall charger can recharge your phone, tablet or other device in a shorter time period. For more info and other power saving tips contact Wells Electrical Services for some free advice.
- Separate toilets (powder room) if possible
A separate toilet gives you the most privacy as the toilet is enclosed and out of sight. This is great for when you have multiple people sharing the same bathroom; one person can use the toilet without restricting access to the bathroom for others who need to use it. It’s also a room where you can let your design ideas go wild, like some of these beautiful spaces. If you can make space for a powder room, there’s no reason not to!
And there we have it, five simple things to consider when building or improving your home! Time to get back to those blueprints and trawling Pinterest for inspo!
