What style, your dream home?

This stunning modern home was created
 by Henning Stummel Architects

It's an interesting question isn't it? If you were given the chance to build the home of your dreams, what would it look like?

Some of you will even be going through that process as we speak: deciding the style of your future home.

But what makes you choose that certain “look”? Pick one architectural style over another?

We've talked lots about where interior design inspiration comes from, but there is just as much out there when it comes to getting inspired about the exterior of your home. Unless you've dreamt of a specific style for years, the first thing to decide is whether it's the past, or the future, you want to stamp it's mark on your building...

 If your sticking with tradition, then it's really a case of researching each period to see which architecture “talks to you”.

Will it be the impressive facades of The Georgian era? Or maybe the stylish symetry of the Regency period? But before you head off to find a architect to start planning the family mansion, take a look at the plot of land you're building on, and the surrounding houses.  
Even if the final realization matches your dreams to tee, if it's not in keeping with it's immediate vicinity, it may fall by the wayside in terms of visual “acceptance” in the community. And that cannot be deemed either an architectural, or a design, success.

Now I know that local building departments are there to stop any style “faux pas” pass the permit stage, but you only need to spend a couple of hours touring housing areas, to know that what you hope for doesn't always happen. So try to be architecturally responsible when it comes to choosing the land you want to build on. Have a good idea of what “look” you're aiming for, and chose the environment accordingly: Georgian splendour on a 60's housing estate may be wonderful from the inside, but will always seem a little strange from outdoors, and you'll definately feel the effect in the resale figures... 

This is a good example of an original
Georgian interior. Check out the
built-in fixtures and fireplace.

If the past has weaved it's magic on you, take the time to really research that period.

Look at reference books, and visit actual homes that still have their original features, so you get a feel of proportions, the style of fixtures and fittings used, and even the colours and finishes in the decor.

You may not want to have a complete replica, but understanding how your chosen style was used in it's hay-day will always result in a better end product today.

And if it's the future you want to influence by building a more modern home, don't forget that contemporary design goes back a long way, so you too will be able to research the “foundations” of your next home.

So whatever your style, the more knowledge you have of it's roots will influence your choices tomorrow. Get as informed as you can, pick your plot with responsibility, and your next home is sure to be a design success.

And don't forget, if you have a building project, it's a good, and economical idea to get us onboard as quickly as possible. We can work alongside your designated architect so that there is a real harmony in design, from the outside in.

Contact us at design@designatdistance.com for details of our custom services, or simply buy a boxed service, to help you make each room reflect your decorative style and your lifestyle.



And if you already have a plot and are looking for inspiration, contact us to find out more about our sister company, Custom Built Homes, where exceptional, innovative design starts at ground level.