Purchasing a new construction home comes with all kinds of necessary steps and processes. Some of these are not particularly enjoyable, such as securing financing or signing all the papers to close the deal. On the other hand, new construction design for your dream home can be incredibly fun and rewarding when you have the right designer at your side.
When you purchase an existing home, you might make some cosmetic updates. But for the most part, you probably move into the house as it is. Sort of like a hermit crab. And that is great most of the time!
But many people prefer to buy something brand new that they can help plan and design. They want a dream home that reflects their dreams, not someone else’s. New home design can feel like a daunting undertaking if you don’t have someone experienced to help you.
At Design Elements NW, we love the opportunity to work with new construction projects. Interior design for a new house is one of our specialties, and it brings us great joy. We’d love to help you with your new home.
Types of New Construction
When it comes to building a brand new home, there are two primary options available.
- Production Builder
- Custom Builder
If you choose to buy from a production builder, your options are somewhat limited. In this situation, the builder offers several design options with specific floor plans. You will select a floor plan and have some choices to make regarding cabinets, counters, flooring, and finishes.
Many production builders have design teams to help you make your selections, or you can have your preferred interior designer assist you. Although you do not have full control over the final look of the home, you do have many areas where you get to choose items based on your preferences.
Custom new home construction is the most flexible path to a new home. With just about every option on the table, the sky’s the limit with new home design from a custom builder. You will have endless choices in configuration, layout, finishes, and fixtures. Aside from working within the size of the lot and the local building codes, you have significant freedom in designing your space.
Although it is fun to have this much range, it can also feel overwhelming. So when you take this route, working with an experienced interior designer like Design Elements NW is the best choice. We work directly with your builder to make the most of your budget as we deliver the dreamiest of dream homes.
Where Do I Get New Construction Design Ideas?
Regardless of whether you go with a production builder or a custom builder, you will have decisions to make. Leaning into the assistance and expertise of your interior designer will make the process much smoother for you.
As you start to think about the design aesthetic you want in your new home, you have a lot of resources you can utilize:
- Websites and blogs devoted to design
- Pinterest boards
- New home builder tours
- Magazines
Save photos and color swatches that speak to you. Pay attention to the types of furniture and decor you are drawn to when you’re out shopping. And take advantage of the experience of your designer.
What Does the New Home Design Process Look Like?
You have your ideas and inspiration and team. Now, how will it work to watch your dream home take shape? Here are some pieces of the process to keep in mind.
Timing
Before any new construction design and building can happen, you and your team must lay out a proposed timeline. Depending on the location and contractor availability, a new-home build can take up to six months. At a minimum, you should plan on it taking three to four months.
Ask as many questions as you need to understand the process and the timing. And then be prepared for the timeframe to shift once construction begins. Weather is the most frequent offender when it comes to delays in the building process.
From downpours that slow down the roofing job to storms that prevent shipments from arriving, you are somewhat at the mercy of the weather. So plan as carefully as you can with your team. But also recognize that some things are beyond anyone’s control.
Budget
Big or small, every construction project has a budget. Be sure that you are crystal clear from the beginning about yours. Once you have the dollars figured out for each step of the process, you can rely on your interior designer to help you stick with it.
At Design Elements NW, we honor our clients’ budgets and can find beautiful options at any price point. When the construction and design process starts to feel overwhelming, you will be glad to have us in your corner. We help keep things running on time and budget so that building your dream home doesn’t turn into a nightmare.
Options
A significant part of new construction design is decision-making. You will have a tremendous number of options placed in front of you, and it can feel overwhelming at times. Your designer will be with you through each step.
Your saved photos and inspirations will come into play during these conversations. They will help you stay true to the things that bring you joy as you plan your stunning new home. The designer will help you see the big picture as you choose fixtures, finishes, paint colors, and decor. This expertise allows you to have a cohesive look throughout your house.
Most of all, take time to enjoy the process. Not everyone gets the opportunity to create their ideal home, so have fun with the interior design for your new house.
Have an Expert on Your Side
When you are facing a home design process, having an expert on your team is critical. At Design Elements NW, our lead designer, Kym, is here to serve you. Her years of experience and her joy in turning your new home into a haven will help you realize your dreams. Reach out today to get started on your project.