Ideas on How to Build a New House

What kind of house will you build?

Decide what kind of house you want to build; ask yourself questions like what size house you want, which architectural style is most appealing to you and the overall layout that you envision. You should also consider the living habits of your family. Include in your planning the needs of any children you have, whether you entertain frequently and if you need a home office or a large kitchen.

Instructions

1. 

   Build an energy-saving home.

   Design and build your home as energy efficiently as possible by using products like structured insulated panels; these panels are usually made from plywood that's been laminated to a core of foam board, which can be 4 to 8 inches thick. The foam board acts as both framing and insulation, so the building of your home goes faster and the foam board provides excellent insulation. Installing solar panels will cut your energy costs, and since they aren't as expensive as they used to be, builders are incorporating them more often.

2. 

   Build a solid foundation for your home.

   Choose a foundation of poured concrete; it's one of the most expensive but it has the most strength and leak resistance. You can use cinder blocks for your foundation, but they aren't as strong as poured concrete and they're more likely to leak. Single concrete slabs are another choice; they're less expensive and are often used in homes that don't have basements.

3. 

   Design a comfortable kitchen.

   Envision a kitchen that will be the heart of your home, where everyone gathers for comfort and conversation, make it functional and comfortable. Don't worry if your design doesn't include a large kitchen; small kitchens are more cozy and inviting. Compartmentalize by using storage seating, pantry racks and Lazy Susans; design your kitchen to be functional by giving it access to the dining room so getting food to the table at mealtime is easier; it also makes sense to situate the garage close by so you can quickly get groceries into the house.

4. 

   Bedrooms should be havens of rest.

   Place bedrooms and bathrooms separate from more highly trafficked places like your den and kitchen. Never put a bathroom where you have to pass through it to get to another room, and make sure your master bedroom has its own attached bathroom. For your bathroom, consider double shower heads for the ultimate shower experience, and get a unique look by installing an antique vanity for storage.

5. 

   Make plenty of room for the family.

   Determine how you'll design the living areas of your home. Their layout determines the overall feel of your home. Decide whether you want these rooms separated by walls or merged into an open floor plan. Open floor plans give the illusion of space while adding light and flexibility for your family's changing needs. Also decide whether your house will have an attic, basement or garage and plan your design accordingly.

References

• Say Build: Home Construction Center
• Donald A. Gardner: Open Floor Plans
• Service Magic: Small Kitchen Design

Resources

• Builder Trend: Homepage
• Build it Solar