Building a vacation home is an exciting endeavor, but it’s necessary to consider all aspects before taking the plunge. While many focus on aesthetics and décor, thinking about practical elements like quality kitchen appliances that make your stay comfortable is essential.
Get inspired to build your vacation home with these six crucial considerations when planning the property’s location, design, and layout.
1. Find the Perfect Location
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when building a vacation home is where to build it. Do you want a secluded cabin in the woods, a beach house with ocean views, or a mountain retreat with panoramic vistas? Consider proximity to activities, accessibility, and privacy before deciding on the location.
For example, if you love the beach and want to build a house with a beautiful ocean view, look for a location close to the beach that offers plenty of activities like snorkeling, surfing, and paddleboarding. Alternatively, the mountains may be ideal if you enjoy forests and want a place to relax and enjoy nature. Look for a spot that offers panoramic views and is close to hiking trails and other outdoor activities.
2. Consider the Climate
The climate of the area you choose will play a crucial role in determining the design of your vacation home. For instance, if you’re building a beach house, a post, and pier foundation may be necessary to protect against flooding. Mini split air conditioning units, like the MRCOOL mini split, are also ideal for beach homes, as they can cool individual rooms, allowing your guests to adjust the temperature to their liking.
Consider sun exposure, ventilation, insulation, and cooling systems when building a home in a warm climate. Materials that reflect heat and natural shading can help keep the house cool, while energy-efficient appliances and window coverings can reduce energy loss by around 30%. Proper ventilation can also promote airflow and prevent mold growth.
3. Orientate Rooms Toward the View
Orienting rooms toward a scenic view is an essential consideration when designing a vacation home. Whether building a mountain retreat or a beach house, you want to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings. One way to do this is by lowering window sills and installing larger windows, allowing you to enjoy the view even when you’re inside.
Another option is to create a wrap-around deck that provides unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. A large deck can be used for outdoor dining, lounging or simply taking in the view. When designing the deck, consider the climate and the materials used to ensure it’s durable and low maintenance.
For example, in a beach climate, use wood resistant to moisture and decay, such as cedar, and redwood, or tropical hardwoods like teak. These woods have natural oils and chemicals that make them resistant to rot, insects, and decay caused by saltwater exposure. Also, consider using stainless steel or galvanized hardware to prevent corrosion.
4. Functional Kitchen
When designing the kitchen, consider investing in a quality kitchen appliance package deal that includes a range, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave. These cost-effective packages ensure that all appliances are of the same brand and style, giving your kitchen a cohesive look.
Another design consideration is whether or not to include a formal dining room. Many vacation homes are designed with an open floor plan, meaning the kitchen and living areas flow seamlessly into each other. This design often eliminates the need for a dining room, as guests can eat in the kitchen or patio.
Also, think about how you plan to use your kitchen. Will you cook large meals for a crowd or prepare simple meals for a smaller group? Consider the size of the appliances and the kitchen layout, ensuring ample counter space for food preparation and storage.
5. Plan for Amenities
If you’re considering adding a pool, think about the size and shape that would work best for your home and guests. A smaller pool may be suitable for a smaller group, while a larger pool may be necessary for larger gatherings. Consider factors like the amount of sunlight the pool will receive, the surrounding landscape, and the required maintenance level.
Hot tubs are another popular amenity that provides a relaxing and luxurious experience. They are particularly enjoyable in colder climates, where you can soak in hot water while taking in the surrounding scenery. When installing a hot tub, ensure that it’s in a location that’s both accessible and private.
6. Don’t Forget the Outdoors
The surroundings of a house are often what draw guests to the property. Vacation home outdoor spaces can include patios, docks, and landscaping. Consider adding a dock to your property if your vacation home is near the water. A dock provides a convenient place to dock boats and other watercraft, making it easy for you or your guests to enjoy water activities like fishing and swimming.
A well-designed dock can also provide space for lounging and enjoying the scenery. Landscaping is also an important consideration when building a vacation home. Low-maintenance vegetation is ideal, as it will reduce the need for constant maintenance, allowing you and your guests to enjoy the outdoor spaces more.
Native plants and trees are also a great option, as they’re adapted to the local climate and require minimal care. Don’t forget about lighting when designing your outdoor spaces. Proper lighting can enhance the ambiance and safety of your outdoor spaces, allowing guests to enjoy them well into the evening.
Enjoy the Process and Stay True to Your Style
Building a vacation home can be an exciting and rewarding process, but it can also be overwhelming, so enjoying the journey and staying true to your style is essential. Take the time to consider all aspects of your home’s design, from the location and amenities to outdoor spaces. Think about how each decision will impact the overall experience for you and your guests, ensuring that every element works together to create a cohesive and enjoyable environment.
Building a vacation home is about creating a space you will love and cherish for years. You can create a truly one-of-a-kind vacation home with careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to your style.
