Save the Day with Built-In’s

Regardless of the overall size of the house plan you choose to work with, storage is an issue for most American families these days.  And no one wants to take up valuable square footage with closets and storage areas that can seem unsightly or bulky. Built-Ins come in all shapes and sized, and are utilized with efficiency and cleverness to create storage in otherwise wasted space. Here are a few of our favorite suggestions for you to consider:

Bookcases: If your family is anything like ours, book accumulation is often an issue. And while we enjoy having a growing library, we don’t always want to take up all the available wall space with standalone bookcases. Built-in bookcases can go just about anywhere: over doorways and down each side in thin columns; under stairs leading to the second floor of your home; a bookcase can even be built in to a hinged door connecting two rooms!

Cupboards: Whether it’s intended for storing fine china, seasonal dishes, or large serving ware, having ample cupboard space is essential for many families who like to gather over a meal. As you look to build a custom home, consider a pass through area with a built in set of cupboards under a long counter for serving, or adding a butler’s pantry to serve as both a storage room and a preparation space.

Window Seats: Anywhere there is a bay window or a recess in the wall a window bench can be built. These are excellent no-brainer storage options, and they make lovely use of a space that can be otherwise difficult to furnish and utilize.

Home Offices/ Study Spaces: Not every family has the need for an entire room to be devoted to office space. Closets that seem to be in unusual places can easily be converted into a work station by removing hinged doors and building in shelves and electronics features.

As you search through our catalog of house plans, keep your eyes out for these kinds of features already inserted into many of the floor plans. And if you don’t see something you’d like to include, remember that all of our plans are customizable based on your needs. Storage options and clever solutions to your family’s needs are just a click away!