Southern Living House Plans

Too big, too little. Too fancy, too simple. With myriad options for house plans available today, it is difficult to know where to start.

Consider the following questions and tell you a few questions. The answers will help you decide on a design that is just right for your family and your budget and lot.

Square One

The real estate mantra "location, location, location" rings true even when you're starting from scratch. From privacy to orientation, your lot is likely to influence what plan you choose.

"Theoretically, it is best to begin by finding a lot because you have a clear idea of what area will and does not fit on the property," said Robert Martin, managing editor at the architecture of southern living. "It hazardous to attempt a proposal Gooseneck a house in a lot which is not ideal for this plan. "

The owner may request a waiver to exceed the building envelope, "" the allowable region may occupy a house on a lot. However, the process is often long and there is no guarantee that permission will be granted.

Local zoning boards and community organizations often need a house is set back a certain distance from the street. Before purchasing a corner lot, whether the regulations apply margin forecourt in front of the lot and the lateral limits of the street. This could substantially reduce the area available for the imprint of a house. Easements and natural features, such as rock outcrops and mature trees, can also affect the house where they may be.

"Some communities promote close neighbors, and communities to promote some more breathing space," said Martin. "It is unwise to use up every square foot of building space, because you'll have less a meter. "

If the lot is located in a suburban neighborhood, consider the placement of windows - Take care not to align perfectly with the neighbors. Entries must also be taken into account to ensure there is adequate space for parking, and turning.

Streets and topography may be a major determinant of the orientation of a house, but it's also a good idea to consider sun exposure when possible. An owner can reorganize a floor plan to enjoy the morning light and afternoon. Martin said that covered porches that face a southern exposure can block heat and sunlight.

Remember that plans are not necessarily "in the state." Manufacturers can use a reverse set of plans (sometimes called a mirror image) to better the site of a house. It is also possible engage an architect or change in service to customize a plan. Ask her if reproducible or electronic CADD files are available for the selected plan. Either make the amendment process faster and easier.

To complement your lifestyle

Before diving into the thousands of maps available today to assess your current life situation. Look around you and ask what works and what does not.

Consider the features most important to you and best hosting plan lifestyle of your family. "The floor plan live how you live?" Martin asked. Are you an empty nester who is ready to downsize? A house in one level may be your answer. Is this a house where you expect to raise a family? Check plans that involve large common areas and a private suite. Would you live outside 12 months a year, if you could? Choose a spacious floor plan with many galleries and more windows than wall space.

If you choose a house plan, you are also choosing a lifestyle. Did you host dinners often, or do you think the first step within the dining room on vacation.