Start with your land. Look at its size and shape. Note the slope. Check where the sun rises and sets. See where the trees are. You must also check local council rules. These rules control what you can build. They cover height, distance from boundaries, and style. Ignoring these rules causes delays. A good house plan considers all these factors. This step ensures your design fits the land perfectly.
Orientation is about placing your home on the block correctly. It uses the sun’s path for natural heating and cooling. Living areas should face north. It also gives you warm sun in winter. Bedrooms can face east for morning light. Good orientation reduces energy bills. It makes your home more comfortable all year round. The above is a key step in selecting a house plan.
Getting your budget straight is the single most important step. This is your financial blueprint. It decides everything you can and cannot do. The building cost you see in a brochure is never the full picture. You must account for much more. Think about site costs like land clearing and soil testing. There might be a rock under the soil or a delay with materials. Your contingency fund is your safety net.
Think about space carefully. A good home feels spacious and organized. Plan for enough storage in every room. This includes robes, linen cupboards, and pantry space. Smart storage stops clutter. It makes your home more peaceful and functional. Never sacrifice storage for extra square meters.
Visit display homes. They are full of good ideas. You can see different layouts and finishes. Take notes on what you like. Speak to the sales consultants. Companies like Domaine Homes often have displays for visitors to explore.
Australians living in the city love the outdoors. Your design should connect inside and outside. Use large doors that open to a patio or deck. This makes your home feel bigger. It is perfect for entertaining. It also brings in natural light and fresh air.
Your needs may change. Think about the future. You might need a home office or a space for elderly parents. Design with some flexibility. Can a room be used for different purposes? A flexible design adapts to your life. It gives you better value over time. Materials affect look, cost, and upkeep. Choose durable materials for our climate. They should need little maintenance.
Australian weather demands smart design. The goal is to use the sun to your advantage. This is called orientation. Well-designed eaves will shade those same windows from the harsh summer sun. Facing bedrooms east gives you gentle morning light. Getting the orientation right is the cheapest form of energy efficiency.
This is the last step before building. Review every detail of your plan. Check all your chosen items. This includes taps, door handles, and paint colors. Confirm all costs. Sign the contract only when you are completely happy. You need council approval to build. The process can be complex. Your builder should help you with this.
A young family’s needs differ from those of a couple nearing retirement. Sit down and write a list. Split it into ‘must-haves’ and ‘would-be-nice.’ This list will be your guide when looking at any design. Building is a journey. There will be decisions and the odd delay. But with a well-chosen plan and a builder you trust, you’ll get through it.
