Choosing the right house plan is the first step toward building a home that truly fits your family. A pre-designed plan from Architectural Designs gives you a strong starting point, but it’s those personal touches that will make it feel like your home. Each plan is thoughtfully designed with the modern family’s lifestyle in mind. Whether you’re collaborating with your builder on design choices or using our modification services, there are so many opportunities to make it unique. Let’s look at five simple ways to personalize your house plan and create a space your family will love!
Modify the House Plan Layout to Suit Your Lifestyle
Making a pre-designed house plan fit your family’s lifestyle is simpler than you might think. If you love hosting, you might consider expanding the great room or kitchen to create more space for gatherings. Need an extra bedroom for guests or a growing child? Converting a bonus room or adding some square footage to the floor plan can take care of that. Even small tweaks, like shifting kitchen appliances for better flow or replacing a tub with a shower, can make a big difference.
For larger changes, like moving walls or altering plumbing, we recommend using our modification services. However, an experienced builder may be able to handle some adjustments directly on-site. Keeping an open line of communication with your builder will help make sure the finished home matches your vision. These small but thoughtful changes can turn a house into the perfect home.
Customize Exterior Finishes and Materials
The exterior of your home sets the tone—let’s make sure it reflects you! Choosing materials and finishes that speak to your style is a great way to add a personal touch. Whether you’re swapping siding, adding stone accents, or tweaking the roof design, these changes can transform the look and feel of your home.
If you’re in an HOA community, you’ll need to keep neighborhood guidelines in mind, but don’t worry—there’s still plenty of room to make it yours. Simple adjustments, like altering window styles or adding decorative elements, can boost curb appeal while still reflecting your taste. Thoughtful choices will help your home stand out while fitting right in. In the examples below, we see Plan 51837HZ taking on three completely different looks.
Incorporate Unique Architectural Details
Adding unique architectural details can give your home a special kind of charm. Exposed beams bring warmth, built-in shelves add function and style, and charming archways create a sense of flow. These details aren’t just about looks—they tell a story about who you are and what makes your home special.
Picture stepping into a living area with a beautifully crafted mantel or intricate moldings. Whether you lean toward modern simplicity or classic elegance, these features can transform your house into a home that truly reflects your family’s personality.
Personalize Outdoor Spaces
Your outdoor spaces are just as important as your indoor ones, especially if your family loves spending time outside. With pre-designed house plans, there are so many ways to make these areas work for you. You might add a front porch for casual chats with neighbors or a covered back porch for a quiet place to read. An outdoor kitchen can make your home the go-to spot for BBQs and gatherings.
If you want to blend indoor and outdoor living, consider adding extra-wide sliding glass doors. They open up the space and create a natural flow, making your home feel bigger. Stylish furniture, cozy fireplaces, and vaulted ceilings can all bring character to your outdoor areas. With thoughtful design, these spaces become natural extensions of your home, perfect for relaxing or entertaining.
Modify Ceiling Heights and Styles
Ceilings have a big impact on the feel of a room. Raising them in the living room can give it a more open, airy vibe, while adding architectural details like coffered or tray ceilings brings elegance to spaces like the dining room or bedroom. These touches add depth and visual interest, making a plain ceiling into a standout feature.
Even small changes, like adding beams or decorative molding, can elevate the whole look of a room. Though they may seem like minor adjustments, they can completely change the atmosphere, turning everyday rooms into welcoming spaces for the family to enjoy.
Browse Our Curated Collection to Find Your House Plan
Personalizing a pre-designed house plan gives you the chance to create a home that’s truly yours. After all, your home should be a reflection of you. Ready to start your journey? Explore our curated collection of house plans and let’s bring your vision to life!