Designing the Perfect House Layout: Tips for Your Custom Home
When building a custom home, the layout you choose is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It determines how your home will function, how your family will live, and even how it feels day to day. At Bluerock, we believe that a thoughtfully designed layout is the cornerstone of a home that supports your lifestyle. Here’s a guide to help you consider the key elements of your custom home’s layout.
1. How Many Stories Should Your Home Have?
The number of stories is a fundamental decision that affects everything from the overall design to daily convenience.
Single-story homes are perfect for families seeking ease of movement, accessibility, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. They’re especially popular for aging in place or multigenerational living.
Two-story homes allow for distinct separation of living spaces, often placing bedrooms upstairs and communal areas on the main level. They’re ideal for maximizing space on smaller lots.
Split-level homes provide unique opportunities to create dedicated zones for living, entertaining, and privacy.
2. What Goes Where? Room Placement Matters
Strategic room placement can make your home more functional and enjoyable:
Main-Level Primary Suite: Many homeowners prefer having the primary bedroom on the main floor for convenience and privacy.
Upstairs Bedrooms: Ideal for families with children, keeping bedrooms upstairs creates a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of shared spaces.
Basements: Perfect for bonus spaces such as home theaters, gyms, or guest suites, basements provide extra square footage while staying out of the way of everyday activities.
Pro Tip: Think about how often you use certain rooms. High-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms should be centrally located, while home offices or hobby rooms may benefit from quieter corners of the house.
3. Where to Put the Garage and Storage?
The garage and storage areas often get overlooked, but their placement is key to your home’s functionality.
Attached Garage: Convenient for bringing groceries or luggage straight into the house, especially during Utah’s winter months.
Detached Garage: A great option for those who want a dedicated workshop or to keep the main house exterior aesthetic clean.
Mudroom & Storage: Place these adjacent to the garage for a seamless transition between outdoor and indoor spaces. Don’t forget to add ample storage for seasonal items, outdoor gear, and everyday necessities.
4. Designing Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor areas are an extension of your home and should align with your lifestyle.
Covered Patios or Decks: Great for entertaining, dining, or simply relaxing outdoors.
Backyard Retreats: Think about creating private spaces with landscaping, fire pits, or a pool.
Front Porches: Perfect for creating curb appeal and a welcoming entryway.
Bluerock specializes in helping clients design outdoor spaces that complement Utah’s stunning natural beauty while fitting seamlessly into their layouts.
5. Open Concept vs. Traditional Layouts
The choice between open concept and traditional layouts is all about personal preference and how you use your home:
Open Concept: This popular style removes barriers between spaces, creating a large, airy flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas. It’s great for entertaining and keeping the family connected.
Traditional Layouts: These layouts use defined rooms and walls to separate spaces, offering more privacy and better sound insulation—ideal for those who value quiet, individual spaces.
Blended Approach: Many homeowners now opt for a mix, such as an open kitchen and living room combined with private, closed-off spaces for offices or bedrooms.
6. Balancing Practicality and Aesthetics
When finalizing your layout, consider the balance between functionality and style. A beautiful design isn’t useful if it doesn’t work for your family’s needs. Bluerock takes a collaborative approach, ensuring your home is both stunning and practical.
Your Layout, Your Lifestyle
At Bluerock, we specialize in creating custom homes that reflect your unique vision. Whether you’re dreaming of a sprawling single-story home or a multi-level retreat, our expert team will guide you through the process to design a layout that’s perfect for your family.
Ready to start building your dream home? Contact Bluerock today to begin your journey.