Features to consider when building a new home 2017
When building a new home, there are several features to consider to ensure that your dream home meets your needs and preferences. Here are some key features to consider in 2017:
- Energy Efficiency: Consider features that reduce energy consumption, such as:
- Insulation: Proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs.
- Windows: Energy-efficient windows with low-E coatings and double-pane glass.
- Solar panels: Consider installing solar panels to generate electricity.
- Smart Home Technology: Incorporate smart home features to enhance convenience and security:
- Smart thermostats: Control temperature and lighting remotely.
- Smart locks: Keyless entry and remote access.
- Smart lighting: Automated lighting systems.
- Sustainable Building Materials: Choose eco-friendly materials for a more sustainable home:
- Recycled materials: Use recycled materials for construction and demolition waste.
- Low-VOC paints: Paints with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for better indoor air quality.
- Sustainable flooring: Choose eco-friendly flooring options like bamboo or cork.
- Resilience and Durability: Consider features that enhance the home's resilience and durability:
- Impact-resistant windows: Windows designed to withstand natural disasters.
- Storm shutters: Protect windows and doors from wind-borne debris.
- Durable roofing: Choose a durable roofing material like asphalt shingles or metal roofing.
- Water Conservation: Incorporate features that conserve water:
- Low-flow fixtures: Install low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets.
- Rainwater harvesting: Collect and store rainwater for irrigation and other non-potable uses.
- Indoor Air Quality: Improve indoor air quality with features like:
- Ventilation systems: Install a whole-house ventilation system.
- Air purification systems: Use air purifiers to remove pollutants and allergens.
- Storage and Organization: Consider features that enhance storage and organization:
- Custom cabinetry: Design custom cabinetry to maximize storage space.
- Built-in shelving: Install built-in shelving for books, decorative items, and more.
- Outdoor Living: Incorporate features that enhance outdoor living:
- Outdoor kitchens: Install an outdoor kitchen with a grill, countertops, and storage.
- Patios and decks: Create an inviting outdoor space with a patio or deck.
- Landscaping: Choose drought-resistant plants and incorporate a rain garden.
- Accessibility and Universal Design: Consider features that enhance accessibility and universal design:
- Wide doorways and hallways: Ensure easy navigation for people with mobility impairments.
- Level thresholds: Remove thresholds to create a seamless transition between rooms.
- Grab bars and handrails: Install grab bars and handrails in bathrooms and stairways.
- Acoustics and Soundproofing: Consider features that enhance acoustics and soundproofing:
- Soundproofing materials: Use soundproofing materials like acoustic panels and insulation.
- Noise-reducing windows: Install windows with noise-reducing features like acoustic glass.
- Fire Safety: Incorporate features that enhance fire safety:
- Smoke detectors: Install smoke detectors on every level and in each sleeping area.
- Fire extinguishers: Install fire extinguishers in the kitchen, garage, and other areas.
- Warranty and Maintenance: Consider features that reduce maintenance and provide a warranty:
- Warranty: Choose a builder that offers a comprehensive warranty.
- Low-maintenance materials: Use low-maintenance materials like vinyl siding and composite decking.
By considering these features, you can create a home that is not only beautiful and functional but also sustainable, resilient, and safe.