What does luxury mean to you? Does it describe a home that perfectly fits your needs: custom-designed spaces complemented with high-quality finishes and furnishings? Does it require little maintenance, but still offer plenty of space to accommodate the things that matter the most to you, such as grandchildren and hobbies?
A luxury home does not necessarily equal a large home. With the right design team offering up ideas that truly fit your life, a smaller, custom home can be tailored to your needs and actually offer a higher degree of luxury than some larger alternatives. Whether it is for efficiency purposes or to be used as a retirement home, luxury comes in all shapes and sizes.
When pondering the benefits of downsizing to a smaller, yet luxurious home, here are a few suggestions to consider throughout the design process.
Adjust Your Mindset
We like to think of downsized homes as “efficient” rather than small.
The key to an efficient home is to use the space wisely, focusing on the areas that matter the most to you. For many retirees and empty nesters, this will include the common areas like the kitchen and living room, as well as the master bedroom.
Consider the features and fixtures that you really need in your perfect home. By reviewing your current home and determining what you can and can’t live without, you can take steps towards creating a custom space that caters to all of your needs and wants. You can look at the areas of the home where you spend the most time and maximize the design use of those spaces.
By creating a home with a more modest size, you will be able to reduce the amount of maintenance required to keep the home in peak condition too, freeing up more of your time to enjoy your new home with your friends and family.
Making It Feel Large
Bring in the light: Windows and skylights can have an amazing impact on the atmosphere within the home. It can make even the smallest room feel bright and open. Although glass everywhere will lose the intended meaning and beauty, well-placed windows in each room can expand sight lines and help the space feel bigger. In the areas where you do not use windows, remember that windowless walls can free space for extra storage and artwork.
Use height to your advantage: In a few rooms, such as the living room, height can make a tremendous difference in how large a room feels. A story and a half ceiling, for example, can easily open a small living room. Remember, however, that you do not need height everywhere. High ceilings in bathrooms and kitchens, for example, are not always necessary.
Reduce any clutter: Clutter can make even the largest spaces feel small. By ridding yourself of anything not needed, you can help the home feel more open and relaxed. Prioritize what you absolutely need in each room, storing or donating that which did not make the cut. Tastefully decorating the space with the items and furnishings that remain will allow you to optimally use the area, creating a more luxurious feel.
Learn More
With the right team, a luxurious, smaller house design can be the house of your dreams! Download our Custom Home Building Guide to learn more and, once you're ready, schedule a consultation to speak to a Project Director.