Most homeowners come across the need to modify existing house layout at some point of time. It can be due to an outgrown family, needing to have extra office space, or any other reason. Regardless of what the reason is, it is important for you to have a clear idea on how to do it right. From this article, we will share more details on it.
Define Clear Goals
The very first step you should take when modifying an existing floor plan is to define clear goals. This is where you should look at the primary cause for modifying an existing floor plan. It can be due to the need to get more space for the living room.
Or else, you would want to have a bigger kitchen. By defining clear goals, you can make sure to stick to them at all times. As a result, you will not miss out on the most important features that made you go for a change in the first place. On top of that, you will be able to complete the project on budget and on time.
When working on a plan to modify existing house layout, you nee to make it as detailed as possible. For example, you should include the resources and materials that you plan to use. Similarly, you must also include the experts who are going to help you on this project. It can be:
- Interior designers
- Architects
- Contractors
- Suppliers and everyone else
While listing them down, make sure to have reasonable expectations at all times.
Consider Going for The Best Ideas
Your home modification should benefit you in the long run. That’s why you should always consider the best ideas. Here are few such ideas that you may consider when trying to modify existing house layout.
- You can get extra space to your house by adding an attic.
- If you have a spacious room in your house, you can divide it into two.
- When you don’t have enough storage space in the house, consider creating some storage space in your garage.
- Take down the ceiling to make your living areas look more spacious.
- Design your home according to an open concept. This can also help to make smaller homes look bigger.
- Design a deck to get some more outdoor living space.
- If you only have one bathroom, consider adding a new one. It is better to have it near the living area, so that your guests can even use it.
- If you have a basement, consider converting it to another bedroom or a man cave.
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Think About the Future
Most of us modify existing house layouts for an immediate requirement. But instead of working only on that, it is better to think about the future as well. For example, you should see how changing the existing house layout can improve your overall life. If you are a person who loves to read, you may think about getting a built-in bookshelf by your bed.
It will help you to enjoy reading a book before you go to sleep. If you have clutter in your kitchen, you can make it more spacious. Don’t just stick to the immediate requirement you have to modify existing house layout. Instead, take a look at the big picture and see how the get the most out of your project.
Take the Traffic Routes of Your House Into Consideration
One of the mistakes that homeowners make when modifying existing house layouts is to ignore the traffic routes. If you can pay attention to this, you can make your day-to-day activities even better. This is where you need to see how you and your family members are moving around the house on a typical day.
For example, you will walk to the kitchen with bags full of groceries every week. This is why you need to think about creating easy access to the kitchen. You may place it near the garage entrance. Likewise, you should also place a bathroom near the living room, which your guests can use. All these thoughtful modifications will eventually contribute towards enhancing the value of your property.
Plan Where to Place Your Furniture
When you modify existing house layout, it is important to plan where you will be placing your furniture as well. If you ignore this, you will end up with unwanted clutter in your rooms. That’s why you should be mindful about furniture placement at the time of designing the house. This is where you should have a clear idea about the types of furniture that you are going to use as well.
You can either decide to go ahead with your existing furniture or buy new ones. No matter what, you will have some basic furniture in the house at all times. That’s why you need to plan around with items like your couches, tables, and beds. If possible, it is better to include the other elements such as islands, fireplaces, windows, and televisions as well.
Don’t Overlook Your Budget
You should never ignore the cost when you are planning to modify an existing house layout. Otherwise, you will run out of money to complete the project. It is better if you can set aside money for the house layout modification project upfront. But if you don’t have enough savings, you need to look at the financing options. Few such financing options available to you include:
- Home equity line of credit
- Construction loan
- Home equity loan
Make sure to deep dive and explore the pros and cons of each method. Then you can decide what financing option you will be choosing to fund your house modification project.
Final Words
From this guide, you got a clear understanding of how to modify an existing house layout. Always consider these options and proceed with bringing the best value addition to your home with the modification project. It will help you to get a fulfilling feeling with the changes you do to your house.