The Birdwood - JFK Custom Homes. Custom Home Builder Perth

There’s nothing like a fresh slate, and when you’re building your new home, that’s exactly what you’ve got. Nothing’s been set in stone, giving you the freedom to create exactly what you want. So make the most of this precious opportunity and think carefully about including some of these popular Perth home design ideas.

1. Solar panelling

You’re not spending money – you’re saving money! That statement may not be true if you’re making an impulse sale purchase, but when it comes to solar panelling, that’s what you’ll be doing. Solar panelling is one seriously savvy way of reducing energy bills, so if you’re building a house from scratch sometime soon, you’ll be mad to forget this. And remember, you’ll also be reducing your carbon footprint.

2. Dimmer switches

Another energy-saving idea, light dimmers give you the freedom and flexibility to easily change the mood of your home with the flick of a switch.

3. Fireplace or wood stove

Photo by Andrew Snow Photography - More living room ideas

A fireplace can add an immeasurable amount of character to a home. Situated in the right spot, it can create wonderful architectural detail. And if you like woodfires, wood is certainly an efficient heat source to consider in winter.

4. Cooling and heating systems

Unless you’re lucky enough to live in an area blessed with year-round mild temperatures and have oodles of passive design features built into your home, built-in cooling and heating systems are a must. Ducted air-conditioning systems will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter and are an investment you’ll never regret.

5. Insulation

On the subject of cooling and heating, you can’t get by good-quality insulation. Don’t hold back – go for as much as you can afford – and be guided by the experts. Forego insulation and you can look forward to a lifetime of discomfort and hefty electricity bills. You have been warned!

6. Excellent alfresco design

Living in Western Australia, you’d be crazy not to make the most of our long, hot summers and include a wonderful indoor-outdoor flow to your home that includes an alfresco area. What’s more, these outdoor dining areas make the most of precious space on our blocks and bring us closer to nature. What’s not to love?

7. Butler’s pantry

A butler’s pantry has been a trend for a while – for good reason. Unlike the dated walk-in wardrobe, a butler’s pantry is an economical use of space and saveS you from a lifetime of annoyance caused by fumbling haplessly around dark and difficult cupboard spaces.

Photo by A Finess by Tine HundrupMore kitchen ideas

8. A high-quality benchtop

A good-quality benchtop can be a focal point of your home – and provide years of enjoyment in the kitchen – without showing wear and tear. For example, reconstituted stone bench tops are recommended by many for their colour, durability and low maintenance. Alternatively, you may want a bespoke wooden benchtop or perhaps something more urban looking like a custom concrete benchtop. Speak to our team about options suitable for your new home.

Photo by Granit ArchitectsBrowse kitchen ideas

9. Great cabinetry

Once again, the difference is in the detail. Customised cabinetry made of good-quality materials make a massive difference to the appearance of your kitchen. For example, woodgrain cabinetry can replicate the look and feel of timber and have the  rare knack of looking superb amongst almost any other finishes in the home. Make sure you choose cabinetry that is hard wearing, practical – and good-looking.

10. Self-closing cabinet drawers

No one likes the look of cupboard doors hanging open, so include self-closing cabinet drawers for a little touch of luxury – and a lifetime of neater-looking cupboards.

11. A large garage

Not many of us get sick of a double garage. Obviously, you can keep your cars safe off the road, but if there comes a time when you’re no longer a two-car family, there’s always something to store in a two-car garage. Think boats, bikes, canoes, musical equipment – or possibly even a moody teenager!

 

Photo by OUTHOUSE designBrowse patio ideas

12. Hot and cold plumbing outdoors

If you’re a fan of alfresco eating, you might be including a small outdoor kitchen, so having hot and cold water at your disposal is a must. And if you enjoy outdoor living, you might want to think about an outdoor shower. Hot and cold plumbing will add that extra touch of luxury while you wash away the day in your treasured garden on a balmy summer night.

13. Loads of storage

This article wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t include every sensible person’s favourite: built-in storage. Let’s face it, we never have enough storage, and the more you can pack out of sight, the better. So think ahead and include storage for televisions and stereos, internal bookcases, large wardrobes and even wall to floor storage spaces.

 

For more information on building your new home, call JFK Home Design Today: (08) 9355 1788