Have you ever looked at a new home or building and wondered what the designer, homeowner or architect were thinking? Or, have you ever driven by a home and wished yours looked as amazing? The term often used for a great looking property is curb appeal. It applies to both residential and commercial projects. The last thing anyone wants is to stand out in a negative way. Working with both an architect and designer will help ensure that your project is something that is aesthetically pleasing. If you’re planning a new property with an architect and designer, here are some things to think about and discuss.
Residential Tips
When planning a custom build in a community, you want your home to complement the neighborhood. And, because many communities have homeowners associations with requirements for everything from the roofing material to the type of grass, you have guidelines on which to base design. However, you don’t want it to look like every other house on the block. Some things you can do to ensure that your home stands out in a good way include:
- Look at the properties immediately around yours. Don’t choose the same color scheme as the five closest homes. However, don’t choose bold colors if the neighborhood is primarily neutrals and vice versa.
- Work with a designer to ensure that your windows, trim, roofing, siding, and doors complement each other and the overall style of the home.
- Have a landscaping plan. Adding plants, trees and shrubs without a plan does not create curb appeal.
Your architect will make sure your home design works with your community, or if you’re not in a community, with the landscape and general area. Your designer will help you choose the right colors for each individual element so they all coordinate, making your home stand out for all the right reasons.
Commercial Tips
Commercial design and construction require more consideration than residential. A manufacturing facility design doesn’t necessarily need to be welcoming like a house of worship or a commercial establishment where customers come and go. As your architect and designer learn about the purpose of your building, they can guide you with the right layout, exterior materials, and colors. Your team will need to consider any local ordinances regarding building height, signage, and other requirements. However, if you want to be the gem of your community, you should consider what the buildings around you look like and be sure you’re not designing something that won’t fit it.
Start Your Residential or Commercial Project with Sandbar Architects
Because we’re local architects, we can go to your land and look at the other structures in the area. We also welcome projects beyond our local area and will come to you. Whether you need both an architect and designer or just an architect, we can help ensure that your building stands out for all the right reasons. Of course, if you have a designer you want to work with, that’s fine too. Call us today at (727) 308-1773 or fill out our contact form to schedule your no obligation consultation with our team.