Designing a floor plan is a crucial step in creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing home. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder a floor plan’s success and we’re here to help you avoid them!
Here are four floor plan mistakes to steer clear of in your home:
- Lack of Clear Paths of Travel: One common mistake when designing a floor plan is not providing a clear path of travel which can lead to cramped and awkward areas that disrupt the flow of your home. There should always be functional flow from one room to the next with clear pathways you can navigate through easily. To avoid this mistake, you’ll first need to consider which paths will be most traveled – this often includes the kitchen and living room. You can then think about designing the layout and strategically place furniture and other objects in a way that allows for easy movement throughout your space.
- Poor Window Placements: Not taking advantage of natural sunlight is another huge floor plan mistake! Neglecting to incorporate natural light into your design can result in a dark and gloomy home – and we don’t want that! It’s important to consider the placement of windows and doors to maximize natural light and create a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Consider the orientation of your house and how natural light will enter each room throughout the day. South-facing windows offer consistent light and are the hottest, while north-facing windows receive the least light and are the coolest. Since the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, east-facing windows receive cool morning light, while west-facing windows receive strong and hot afternoon light.
- Inadequate Storage Space: Not having enough storage space is another common floor plan mistake which can lead to clutter and a lack of organization within your home. To avoid this, be sure to include ample storage solutions such as built-in cabinets, closets, and other storage options that are integrated seamlessly into your floor plan design. Make sure you have a place to hang your coats, tuck away your cleaning supplies, and organize your extra linens when not in use. If you tend to have a large wardrobe of clothes, you’ll probably want a closet with more square footage to store them all! Consider your needs and design your floor plan space around what works best for you.
- Ignoring Scale and Proportions: When designing a floor plan, it is crucial to not ignore the scale and proportions of the space you have to work with. This can lead to a disproportionate and unbalanced environment with rooms that are too cramped or too spacious. A couch that’s too big for your living room will become an eyesore and you definitely don’t want a media console that blocks your view out the window, or an ottoman that is taller than your chair! Properly scaled furniture and well-proportioned room layouts can enhance the appeal and functionality of your space, so make sure you incorporate pieces that are scaled to size.
If you are considering starting a project or are unhappy with the current scale and flow of your space, consider booking a free consultation with Amy here to discuss possible floor plan solutions for your home!
