Architect Designed House Plans: Create Your Dream Home

An architect designed house plan is a detailed set of drawings and specifications that outlines the design and construction of a house. These plans are typically created by a licensed architect who has the expertise and experience to ensure that the house is safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. One example of an architect designed house plan is the Fallingwater house, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This house is known for its unique design, which includes a cantilevered living room that extends over a waterfall.

There are many benefits to using an architect designed house plan. First, these plans can help you to create a house that is tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Second, architect designed house plans can help you to avoid costly mistakes during the construction process. Third, these plans can help you to increase the value of your home. In the following sections, we will discuss the benefits of using an architect designed house plan in more detail.

There are many important points to consider when choosing an architect designed house plan. Some of the most important factors to keep in mind include:

• Functionality
• Aesthetics
• Cost
• Sustainability
• Lot size
• Local building codes
• Timeline
• Personal preferences
• Future needs

By considering all of these factors, you can choose an architect designed house plan that is right for you and your family.

Functionality

When it comes to architect designed house plans, functionality is key. A well-designed house plan will take into account the needs of the people who will be living in the house and will create a space that is both comfortable and efficient. Here are some of the key functional considerations that architects take into account when designing house plans:

1. Flow of space: The flow of space in a house plan is important for both comfort and efficiency. A well-designed house plan will have a natural flow from one room to the next, without any awkward or cramped spaces. The kitchen, dining room, and living room should be located in close proximity to each other to make entertaining and everyday living easy. Bedrooms and bathrooms should be located in private areas of the house, away from high-traffic areas.

2. Room size and shape: The size and shape of each room in a house plan are important for both functionality and aesthetics. Rooms should be large enough to accommodate the furniture and activities that will take place in them, but they should not be so large that they feel empty or impersonal. The shape of a room can also affect its functionality. For example, a square room is more efficient for furniture placement than a long, narrow room.

3. Storage space: Adequate storage space is essential for any home. A well-designed house plan will include plenty of storage space in the form of closets, cabinets, and shelves. Storage space should be located throughout the house, in both public and private areas.

4. Natural light: Natural light is important for both health and well-being. A well-designed house plan will take advantage of natural light by incorporating windows and skylights into the design. Natural light can help to reduce energy costs and can also make a home feel more spacious and inviting.

Aesthetics

In addition to functionality, aesthetics are also an important consideration when choosing an architect designed house plan. A well-designed house should be both beautiful and functional. Here are some of the key aesthetic considerations that architects take into account when designing house plans:

• Architectural style: The architectural style of a house is one of the most important aesthetic considerations. There are many different architectural styles to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular architectural styles include traditional, contemporary, modern, and rustic. The architectural style of a house should be chosen based on the personal preferences of the homeowner and the surrounding environment.
• Exterior materials: The exterior materials of a house can also have a significant impact on its overall aesthetic. There are a wide variety of exterior materials to choose from, including brick, stone, wood, stucco, and siding. The exterior materials should be chosen based on the architectural style of the house and the climate in which the house is located.
• Roof shape: The roof shape of a house is another important aesthetic consideration. There are many different roof shapes to choose from, including gable, hip, gambrel, and flat. The roof shape should be chosen based on the architectural style of the house and the climate in which the house is located.
• Landscaping: The landscaping around a house can also have a significant impact on its overall aesthetic. The landscaping should be designed to complement the architectural style of the house and to create a welcoming and inviting outdoor space. The landscaping should include a variety of plants, trees, and shrubs, as well as hardscaping elements such as patios, walkways, and driveways.

By considering all of these factors, you can choose an architect designed house plan that is both beautiful and functional.

Cost

The cost of an architect designed house plan will vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the house, the location of the house, and the experience of the architect. However, there are some general factors that will affect the cost of any architect designed house plan:

• Size of the house: The larger the house, the more it will cost to design. This is because the architect will need to spend more time and resources on the design process.
• Complexity of the house: The more complex the house, the more it will cost to design. This is because the architect will need to spend more time and resources on the design process.
• Location of the house: The cost of living in different locations can vary significantly. This is because the cost of land, labor, and materials can vary from place to place.
• Experience of the architect: The more experienced the architect, the more they will charge for their services. This is because experienced architects have a greater depth of knowledge and expertise.

It is important to keep in mind that the cost of an architect designed house plan is only a small part of the overall cost of building a house. The cost of land, labor, and materials will all be significantly higher than the cost of the house plan. However, a well-designed house plan can help you to save money in the long run by reducing the cost of construction and maintenance.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an important consideration for any architect designed house plan. A sustainable house is designed to minimize its environmental impact and to maximize its energy efficiency. There are many different ways to incorporate sustainability into an architect designed house plan, including:

• Energy efficiency: An energy-efficient house is designed to use less energy to heat, cool, and power the home. This can be achieved through a variety of measures, such as using energy-efficient appliances and lighting, installing solar panels, and incorporating passive solar design principles into the design of the house.
• Water conservation: A water-conserving house is designed to use less water. This can be achieved through a variety of measures, such as installing low-flow toilets and faucets, using drought-tolerant landscaping, and collecting rainwater for irrigation.
• Material selection: The materials used to build a house can have a significant impact on its environmental impact. Sustainable materials are those that are produced in a way that minimizes environmental damage and that can be recycled or reused at the end of their useful life. Some examples of sustainable materials include recycled steel, bamboo, and cork.
• Site planning: The way a house is sited on a lot can also have a significant impact on its environmental impact. A well-sited house will take advantage of natural features such as sunlight, wind, and vegetation to reduce energy consumption and improve indoor air quality.

By incorporating sustainability into the design of your house, you can reduce your environmental impact and create a more comfortable and healthy living environment for yourself and your family.

Lot size

The size of your lot will have a significant impact on the design of your house. A larger lot will give you more flexibility in terms of the size and shape of your house, while a smaller lot will require you to be more creative with your design. Here are some of the things to keep in mind when choosing an architect designed house plan for your lot:

• Setbacks: Setbacks are the minimum distances that your house must be set back from the property lines. Setbacks are typically determined by local building codes and zoning regulations. When choosing a house plan, you need to make sure that the house will fit on your lot with the required setbacks.
• Lot shape: The shape of your lot will also affect the design of your house. A rectangular lot will give you more flexibility in terms of the shape of your house, while an oddly shaped lot will require you to be more creative with your design.
• Slope: The slope of your lot will also affect the design of your house. A sloping lot may require you to build a house with a split-level or walk-out basement. You may also need to incorporate retaining walls into the design of your house to prevent erosion.
• Orientation: The orientation of your lot will also affect the design of your house. A lot that is oriented to the south will receive more sunlight than a lot that is oriented to the north. This can affect the design of your house in terms of the placement of windows and doors, as well as the use of passive solar design principles.

By considering all of these factors, you can choose an architect designed house plan that is right for your lot.

Local building codes

Local building codes are regulations that govern the construction of buildings within a particular jurisdiction. These codes are typically established by local governments and are designed to ensure that buildings are safe, habitable, and energy-efficient. Building codes may also address issues such as accessibility, sustainability, and historical preservation.

When designing an architect designed house plan, it is important to be familiar with the local building codes that will apply to the project. Building codes can vary from one jurisdiction to another, so it is important to check with the local building department to determine which codes will apply to your project. Building codes typically address a wide range of issues, including:

• Structural requirements: Building codes will typically specify the minimum structural requirements for buildings, including the size and spacing of structural members, the type of materials that can be used, and the methods of construction that must be followed.
• Fire safety requirements: Building codes will typically specify the fire safety requirements for buildings, including the type of fire-resistant materials that must be used, the location of fire exits, and the installation of fire sprinklers.
• Plumbing and electrical requirements: Building codes will typically specify the plumbing and electrical requirements for buildings, including the size and type of pipes and wires that can be used, the location of electrical outlets and switches, and the installation of safety devices such as circuit breakers and smoke detectors.
• Energy efficiency requirements: Building codes will typically specify the energy efficiency requirements for buildings, including the type of insulation that must be used, the efficiency of heating and cooling systems, and the use of renewable energy sources.

By following the local building codes, you can help to ensure that your architect designed house plan is safe, habitable, and energy-efficient.

In addition to the general building codes that apply to all buildings, there may also be specific building codes that apply to architect designed house plans. These codes may address issues such as the design of the house, the materials that can be used, and the construction methods that must be followed. For example, some jurisdictions may have specific codes that apply to the design of custom homes, historic homes, or homes that are located in environmentally sensitive areas.

Timeline

The timeline for an architect designed house plan will vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the house, the experience of the architect, and the local building codes. However, there are some general steps that are involved in the process:

1. Initial consultation: The first step is to meet with an architect to discuss your project. During this meeting, you will discuss your needs and goals for the house, as well as your budget and timeline. The architect will then provide you with a proposal for their services.

2. Schematic design: If you decide to hire the architect, the next step is to develop a schematic design. This is a preliminary design that will include the basic layout of the house, as well as the exterior and interior elevations. The schematic design will be used to obtain feedback from you and to make any necessary revisions.

3. Design development: Once the schematic design is approved, the architect will begin to develop the design in more detail. This will include developing the floor plans, elevations, and sections. The architect will also begin to select materials and finishes.

4. Construction documents: The final step is to prepare the construction documents. These documents will include all of the information that is needed to build the house, including the floor plans, elevations, sections, and details. The construction documents will be used by the contractor to build the house.

The timeline for each of these steps will vary depending on the factors mentioned above. However, as a general rule of thumb, you can expect the entire process to take anywhere from six months to a year.

Personal preferences

Your personal preferences will play a major role in the design of your architect designed house plan. These preferences will include your lifestyle, your family’s needs, and your aesthetic tastes. Here are some of the key personal preferences that you should consider when choosing an architect designed house plan:

• Lifestyle: Your lifestyle will have a significant impact on the design of your house. For example, if you love to entertain, you will need a house with a large kitchen and dining room. If you have a large family, you will need a house with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. If you work from home, you will need a house with a dedicated home office.
• Family’s needs: The needs of your family will also affect the design of your house. For example, if you have young children, you will need a house with a safe and secure backyard. If you have elderly parents living with you, you will need a house with a first-floor bedroom and bathroom.
• Aesthetic tastes: Your aesthetic tastes will also play a role in the design of your house. For example, if you prefer a traditional style, you will need a house with a classic exterior and interior. If you prefer a modern style, you will need a house with a sleek and contemporary design.
• Future needs: It is also important to consider your future needs when choosing an architect designed house plan. For example, if you are planning to have children in the future, you will need a house with enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate your growing family. If you are planning to retire in the future, you may want a house with a first-floor bedroom and bathroom so that you can age in place.

By considering all of these factors, you can choose an architect designed house plan that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Future needs

It is also important to consider your future needs when choosing an architect designed house plan. This is especially important if you are planning to stay in the house for a long time. Here are some things to consider:

1. Family planning: If you are planning to have children in the future, you will need to make sure that the house you choose has enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate your growing family. You may also want to consider a house with a flexible floor plan that can be easily adapted to your changing needs.

2. Aging in place: If you are planning to retire in the house, you may want to consider a house with a first-floor bedroom and bathroom. This will allow you to age in place and avoid having to move to a new home in the future.

3. Accessibility: If you or a family member has mobility issues, you may want to consider a house with accessible features such as wide doorways, ramps, and grab bars. This will make it easier for you to get around the house and live independently.

4. Sustainability: If you are concerned about the environment, you may want to consider a house with sustainable features such as energy-efficient appliances, solar panels, and a rainwater harvesting system. This will help you to reduce your environmental impact and save money on your utility bills.

By considering your future needs, you can choose an architect designed house plan that will meet your needs for many years to come.