Interior Design

• Questions to answer

"Design is a plan for arranging elements in such a way as best to accomplish a particular purpose." – Charles Eames

The interior design and layout of your custom home play a crucial role in creating a comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing living space.

A quick note: interior design and floor planning research are two distinct aspects of the design process that serve different purposes and focus on different elements of a building project. While both contribute to the overall functionality and aesthetics of a space, they have specific roles and areas of focus.

Interior design, in particular is the process of creating aesthetically pleasing, functional, and comfortable indoor spaces by selecting and arranging furniture, lighting, color schemes, materials, and accessories. It considers the overall look and feel of the space, as well as its psychological and emotional impact on the occupants. Though this will come to life more holistically when the home is finished, it's worth thinking about now at a high level, in case it helps steer or inform other design decisions at this stage.

Here's an overview of key aspects to consider when planning your home's interior design and layout:

Space and floor planning¶

Start by thinking about how you want to use each room and the flow between spaces. Consider the size and arrangement of furniture, as well as the relationships between various rooms. For example, you might want the kitchen to be easily accessible from the dining and living areas or have a master suite separate from other bedrooms for privacy. Make sure there's enough circulation space, and avoid overcrowding or underutilizing areas. Read the section of this guide on Floor Plan Research for more. We'll also refine your space plan further with your architect in the Design Phase.

Functionality¶

Keep your lifestyle, daily routines, and specific needs in mind when designing your home's layout. Think about the activities that will take place in each room and plan accordingly. For instance, if you love cooking and entertaining, you may want a spacious, well-equipped kitchen with a large island or a formal dining room.

Lighting¶

Good lighting is essential for both functionality and ambiance. Incorporate a mix of natural, ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a balanced and flexible lighting scheme. Use windows, skylights, and glass doors to maximize natural light, and consider energy-efficient options like LED lighting for artificial light sources.

Storage¶

Adequate storage is crucial for maintaining an organized and clutter-free home. Plan for built-in storage solutions such as closets, cabinets, and shelving in various rooms. Don't forget about specialized storage areas like pantries, mudrooms, or laundry rooms, which can help keep everyday items out of sight and maintain a tidy living space.

Aesthetics and style¶

Your home's interior design should reflect your personal taste and preferences. Choose a design style or theme that resonates with you, whether it's traditional, modern, minimalist, or eclectic. Consider elements such as color schemes, materials, textures, and patterns that will contribute to the overall look and feel of your home. Consistency in design choices will create a cohesive and harmonious atmosphere.

Flexibility and adaptability¶

Design your home with the future in mind, considering potential changes in your lifestyle, family size, or needs. Incorporate flexible spaces that can be easily adapted or repurposed, such as multi-functional rooms or spaces that can be divided or combined. This will ensure your home remains functional and comfortable over time.

Sustainability¶

As we increasingly recognize the importance of environmentally friendly design, consider incorporating sustainable practices into your home's interior design. This could involve using energy-efficient appliances, sustainable materials, or designing to maximize natural light and ventilation. Such practices can lead to a healthier living environment and contribute to global sustainability efforts.

Professional help¶

While you may have a clear vision for your home's interior design and layout, consulting with a professional interior designer or architect can be invaluable. They can help refine your ideas, offer suggestions and solutions you may not have considered, and ensure that your home's design is functional, stylish, and tailored to your needs.

By considering these factors and working closely with design professionals, you can create an interior design and layout for your custom home that is both functional and visually appealing, providing a comfortable and enjoyable living space for years to come. Realize that you don't need to make any final decisions in this pre-design phase, but arming yourself with some research and thinking through the ideas above will set you up for success.

Questions to answer¶

• How do you envision the flow and relationships between the various rooms in your home to best suit your lifestyle and needs?

• What are the specific functional requirements for each room in your home, considering your daily routines and activities?

• How can you create a balanced and flexible lighting scheme that incorporates natural, ambient, task, and accent lighting in your home?

• What storage solutions and spaces will you need to maintain an organized and clutter-free living environment?

• Which design style or theme resonates with you, and how will you ensure consistency in your interior design choices to create a cohesive and harmonious atmosphere?

• How can you incorporate flexibility and adaptability into your home's interior design and layout to accommodate potential changes in lifestyle, family size, or needs over time?