6 Tips for Maximizing Square Footage in Your New Home Construction

Creating a custom home design means making endless decisions, big and small. While working with a design/build firm can help you navigate this sea of choices more easily, there are still many crucial decisions to think about before beginning the process. One of these key aspects to consider in the design process is the square footage of your new home construction.

From deciding what size to make your new property to optimizing the layout for maximum functionality within that square footage, there are many things to think about with your architectural design firm. When considering the square footage of your custom home design, here are six tips to keep in mind to get the most for your money.

1. Design for Your Family Size

One of the most important factors to consider when maximizing square footage is your family size. It's crucial to think about your current needs and potential future needs. Are you planning on growing your family? Do you often have guests staying over? These are all important questions to ask yourself when deciding on the layout of your new home.

This doesn’t just apply to the number of bedrooms in your new home construction but also the size of your gathering spaces like living rooms and dining areas. A good rule of thumb is to have seating for double the number of bedrooms. For example, if you have a three-bedroom home, your living room and dining room should comfortably fit six people.

2. Create Multi-Generational Living Spaces

In today's society, multi-generational living has become more common. Whether you have aging parents living with you or adult children returning home, creating multi-generational living spaces can be a great way to make use of your new home's square footage. This can be achieved by adding a separate living area, such as an in-law suite or a guest suite, complete with its own entrance, kitchenette, and bathroom. This will not only provide privacy for everyone but also create a sense of togetherness and convenience. 

3. Opt for Dual-Purpose Rooms

Another way to maximize square footage is by creating rooms that serve multiple functions. For example, instead of creating a dedicated home office, create a home office that can also double as a guest room. A formal dining room can also be used as an additional living space, game room, or home gym. By working with your custom home builder to create dual-purpose rooms, you are maximizing your home’s potential and creating a more versatile and functional space.

4. Incorporate Open Floor Plans

Gone are the days of small, closed-off rooms. Open floor plans are a popular trend in new home construction — and for good reason. By removing walls and combining spaces, you are not only creating an open and airy feel, but you are also maximizing the square footage of your new home. With an open floor plan, you can have one large space that serves multiple purposes, such as a kitchen, dining area, and living room, making your home feel more spacious and less segmented. It also makes it more versatile and able to adapt to whatever space you need that day.

5. Create a Second-Floor Laundry Room

With most bedrooms on the second floor of the house, having laundry on the first floor or in the basement can make it difficult to lug heavy loads of laundry up and down the stairs. If you can, consider incorporating a second-floor laundry room into your custom home design. This will not only save you from having to haul loads of laundry up and down the stairs each week, but it also frees up valuable square footage on the first floor. 

6. Incorporate Plenty of Built-In Storage

Finally, built-in storage is an invaluable way to maximize square footage in your new home. By utilizing vertical wall space and incorporating built-in shelves, cabinets, and closets, you can keep your home clutter-free and organized. Built-ins also tend to use up less floor space than furniture storage, maximizing the square footage of each room. Consider adding built-in storage in every room, including the kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms, to make the most of all available space.

At AFT Construction, we are dedicated to building beautiful custom homes that exemplify luxury and stand the test of time. Our exceptional team of home builders is committed to transforming your one-of-a-kind vision into a stunning reality, with an emphasis on superior craftsmanship and meticulous detail. Discover the joy of a completely custom building experience, where every element of your home is designed to your exact specifications. No matter what you’re envisioning, we ensure every aspect reflects your desires. To begin your journey toward your bespoke dream home, contact us today to book a personalized new home construction consultation.