In the 1920s, Mediterranean-style homes were all the rage. But all things, even the good things, come and go in cycles. While the style had a resurgence in the 90s and the aughts, times and design are a-changing here in the 2020s. Home design trends, much like fashion, music, and the Hale-Bopp comet are fleeting. That’s why it is so important to be able to capture the styles that speak most to you but also find ways to seamlessly blend these fun design trends you’re your home without looking dated. 

One of the best ways to set your home up for all its future incarnations is to have a solid floor plan. 

What to consider for a great floor plan

Whether you’re building a new house or renovating your current home, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when thinking about your floor plan. These are: space, light, traffic, lifestyle and storage.

Space

Floor plans are all about space. How much space do you have? How much do you want? Or need? The space you have to play with will inform the layout overall. Also, think about how much time you’ll spend in each of the designated areas of your home. If you love entertaining guests regularly, a big dining room or kitchen would work better for you. Taking stock of your space will let you make clear decisions about how to use it to your advantage. 

Traffic

People are not stationary and your floor plan should take that into account. How people move from one room to another is key. Even for everyday things like how easy it is to get from your garage to your living room. Can you fold your laundry in a mud room or will you have to take it somewhere else (we see you dining table)? You’ll want to have an idea of how you’ll move through the space when designing your floor plan.

Light

Floor plans also let you consider how your space is going to be lit. Natural lighting is paramount. The size and location of your home will determine how many windows each room will need. You can also be strategic with the type of artificial lighting each room will require. If you are looking for inspiration, we’ve discussed the importance of leveling up your rooms with luxury lighting on our blog. 

Storage

As we go through life, we all gather *things*. Things like luggage, wrapping paper, clothes, extra linens, etc. Having sufficient space to store these things (and more) is an additional consideration. For example, think about the size of a walk-in closet for the master bedroom or closet space near the garage for storing backpacks, jackets, and dirty shoes.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle is probably one of the more important areas to consider when thinking of a floor plan. Are you a homebody or someone who’s out on the town? Do you prefer to entertain dinner parties or low-key movie nights? Your floor plan should also reflect how your own home fits your family’s overall lifestyle and personality. 

Connect with the experts

All the above factors are important when speaking with an architect about designing your home’s floor plan. If you have questions on how to create a floor plan that’ll work for you, give us a call! Our team of experts is on hand, ready to share insight and help you create the space you crave.