When you’re building a custom home, there are many things to consider, like the design, the materials, and who will build it. But if you have kids, there are a few extra things you’ll want to take into account. Nevertheless, here are seven tips for building a custom home perfect for families with kids.
Include Easy to Clean Features
Kids are messy. That’s just a fact of life. By including easy to clean features in your custom home design, you can help reduce the amount of time you spend sweeping and scrubbing every week. Simply installing tile floors throughout the house, for example, will cut down on spills that could potentially ruin carpets or hardwood floors (and your sanity). Some of these could be in the master bathroom, where kids can help with simple tasks like emptying wastepaper baskets or cleaning glass surfaces.
Design a “Junk” Room for Kids
Speaking of messes, you’ll want to consider adding a room that can be used as a “junk” room for kids. This way, they’ll have their own designated space for days when creativity strikes (and it will strike!), and the stuff they bring home from school doesn’t fit in their rooms anymore.
Such a room could include a desk, bookshelves, and storage drawers for things like craft supplies. It should also be large enough to hold the items that don’t belong anywhere else, like sports equipment or old toys.
Add Extra Storage Spaces
Kids have a lot of stuff. From toys and clothes to homework, art projects, and sports equipment, kids have a lot that needs storing. Include extra storage spaces throughout the house, including their rooms, to help reduce clutter all over your custom modern home without sacrificing much space.
You can use the space under the bed for toy chests, use closet space to store extra clothes and backpacks, and design appropriate furniture pieces like ottomans with hidden storage inside.
Include an Outdoor Play Area for Kids
Kids love running around outside. If you want your kids to stay active, include an outdoor play area in your plans that’s big enough to support their energy. You might even ask your custom home builders in NC, or wherever you live, to add a sandbox or swing set into the mix for extra excitement. Doing this will give them a place to play while also helping you reduce the risk of electrical hazards, water hazards, and other household dangers that can lead to injuries.
Include a Kid-Friendly Laundry Room
Of course, everyone needs a laundry room. But with kids, you’ll also want to consider including a fold-down ironing board and kid’s chairs. This way, they can help out around the house if they choose to. They may even be more interested in folding clothes than you’d expect!
For their safety, too, you’ll want to include at least one safety gate that can be used to block the stairs. Consider installing child-proof locks on cabinets and closets, as well.
Build Stairs with Handrails
Kids should always have a stair railing installed when using stairs, but this is even more important for custom homes because of other features like low countertops and cabinets. Your kids’ safety is your most important priority, so always build stairs with handrails and child-proof locks to prevent any injuries.
Handrails will help your kids grip and hold on to the railings as they walk up and down the steps, while child-proof locks will help prevent them from playing with cabinets and drawers that could cause injuries if opened too quickly.
Have a Master Ensuite Bedroom with a Shower and Tub
Kids hate taking baths, but eventually, they have to learn. Having a master ensuite bedroom with a shower and tub provides some extra incentive, motivating them to take regular showers so they can use the tub whenever they want. It will also cut down on messes in bathrooms around the house caused by hair dye or bubble bath overflow.
And for your privacy, you’ll love the dual vanities, walk-in closets, and relaxing shower. These features can help you get ready for your day in the morning, making it a little easier to start on a positive note.
Wrap-Up
Building a custom home is a rewarding experience, but it can also be stressful. There are so many features to consider when planning your new home, from how it will look outside to who uses each room on the inside. Fortunately, with these seven tips in mind, you’ll have all the help you need to design a fantastic family home that’s safe for kids.
