April 14th 2023

5 desirable design features for your self build home wishlist

5 desirable design features for your self build home wishlist

Deciding to build your own home is an incredibly exciting journey to embark on, as you can customise the design to include any feature and finish you want.

We know that curating a wishlist and starting to visualise how you will spend time in your dream home is often the first step for many budding self builders. So, to help you in your search for inspiration, we’ve shared 5 design features that will undoubtedly enhance your life and bring some everyday luxuries to your finished home…

Deante Ely oak doors

One of the many benefits of building with timber is that you can bring the beauty of natural wood into the internal finishes, not just the overall frame of your home. Oak doors are a striking yet often overlooked finishing touch to the interiors, however they look much more natural than alternatives such as white internal doors.

Practically speaking, oak doors offer a natural method of insulation to keep your home warm and energy efficient, plus they act as a great sound barrier when closed for an extra degree of privacy between rooms.

Deante Ely doors are also a real luxury for a new home, as they bring a sense of warmth and character to the interiors with their natural tones and wooden finish. To maximise on natural light and brighten up your home, you can add part-glass doors to your hallway and reception areas.

Practical storage spaces

As you look to build your own home, we know that having enough space for storing everything will be front of mind for many - especially those with growing families. Having ample storage space throughout your new home will instantly reduce clutter that can be easily accumulated over the years, so it’s no surprise that clever storage solutions are high on the wishlist for budding self-builders.

From pantry cupboards in the kitchen, to under stair storage, built-in wardrobes and spacious coat closets in the utility room or vestibule, the options for storage are endless when you choose to self-build your home. To ensure your home is as practical as can be, with storage ready to use straight away, we include shelving and rails in our standard finishing package.

Kirkwood Homes: Broughty Ferry

Open-plan spaces

Having an open-plan space has become a key feature of modern living, with an increasing number of self-builders looking to incorporate this layout in their new home. Having room for a family space as part of a kitchen and dining area, for example, has become extremely popular, as it offers a multitude of purposes and plenty of versatility.

An open-plan space in the kitchen means you can prepare meals while keeping an eye on the little ones, or keep your guests entertained while you get refreshments ready. Whether you’re a couple or family, an open-plan space keeps you well connected and offers a more sociable atmosphere.

Top tip: Don’t forget that open-plan spaces can be costly, as the lack of supporting walls can create some structural implications, so remember to factor this into your self-build budget.

Handy garages

Whether it’s a single or double, an integral garage is a great feature for a busy family home, as it adds another practical and versatile space for day to day life or long term storage.

Aside from keeping your car safe, a garage has a number of additional uses which has made it an increasingly popular feature for self-builders. For many families, a garage provides a spacious storage area for outdoor equipment, toys, tools and garden furniture that keeps your home from getting messy and cluttered.

Top tip: You could also have your garage plasterboarded and painted to easily convert it into an office or a home gym.

Kirkwood Timber Frame: Balmoral details

Luxurious en-suites and walk-in-wardrobes

If you want to really go the extra mile with your brand new home, choosing to self-build allows you to think bigger and factor in everyday luxuries you’ve always dreamed of, such as walk-in-wardrobes and deluxe en-suites.

Adding an en-suite bathroom to one, or even two of the bedrooms, is a great consideration for families or those who often have extended family or friends staying over, as they provide extra space, privacy and flexibility.

A walk-in-wardrobe or dressing room is another great feature for a master bedroom, as it allows you to keep everything tidied away and organised, while adding a little more luxury to your everyday routine.

Top tip: Don’t forget that you can customise these spaces to incorporate additional features, such as shelving, hooks and racks, or enough room for a centralised bath and separate shower enclosure.

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