We are always presented with the challenge of designing and building well-appointed, efficiently designed homes that fit the unique constraints of the small lots typically found on the Cape.   We found this article from Housingzone.com that provides some good ideas that will help you design your next "small home that lives large" Check it out!

docs/small homes that live large.pdf

    We found these interesting and innovative building and home designs. Great inspiration for your next project, although we will acknowledge that they are a little over the top!  Enjoy

 

 

http://villageofjoy.com/50-strange-buildings-of-the-world/

     The real decision makers, when it comes to home design, style and functionality. We have found that men are great with the "big picture" but women prefer to focus on the details.  Things like functionality of living spaces, smart use of storage and seating areas, good bathroom design are all areas at which women excel.  We found some helpful tips in the 10 Commandments of Woman-centric Design.  See below:

    Looks like some new trends are emerging at the International Builder's show in Orlando.  See link from Yahoo Real Estate to discover the latest trends.  One of the most interesting points is the turn back towards smaller, more efficiently-designed homes. It looks like crafstman-style homes are seeing a resurgence, while other styles, such as the classic split level are all but gone.

Click here for more: What's Hot in Homes for 2012

   Things are changing in 2012.  More of our customers are seeking value based designs and improvements that provide functionality, and flexible use of spaces.  Builder magazine recently published an article about the top 10 custom home trends for 2012. Bonus rooms, sunrooms / screened porches, exterior upgrades and garages are all on the top of the list. So far this year we have seen several requests for finished rooms over garages, finished basments with open, flexible spaces, and room additions that can serve multiple purposes.

    The current design trends are evolving into a lifestyle driven home, where you don't see things like formal dining rooms, separate living rooms, or dens. Most of the demand we have seen has been for open living spaces, where families and friends can gather and entertain with all of the important amenities in one place. 

Click here to see the article and slideshow from Builder Magazine :10 Custom Home Design Trends for 2012

If you are considering a project this year, and would like more information, click here for a no obligation consult:

The Design, Build and Renovation of a home requires an integrated systems approach.  Ideally the entire process, from design to construction, has been planned so as to maximize an efficient timetable for project completion.  Equally important is ensuring that the resulting home is a healthy environment for its occupants.

Systems Approach Can Save Money

"Applying the principles for a healthy home, to design, construction and renovation, does not have to result in significant cost increases.  By understanding interactions between building systems, we can identify cost saving trade-offs that improve building performance."

The link below directs you to a booklet which offers valuable insights into some key aspects and design criteria to consider prior to starting your project.  Some of the major design considerations are related to:

1. water

2. air

3. combustion

4. dust

5. creatures.http://www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/building_america/pdfs/db/32114.pdf

Although this pamphlet is intended for those in the construction industry, it's content is relevant and accessible to homeowners.

-Request Info

 

  Here are some interior shots of a new home that we have been working on for a few months in Dennis, MA.  This week we are installing the kitchen, finishing the interior trim work, and getting ready to install the plumbing fixtures.  This home is located in our Dr. Stanton Rd. neighborhood, and has a traditionally-styled exterior, with an open floor plan, and some more contemporary styling inside. If you would like to see more of this home, please click here -Request Info

 

Current and Future Construction Costs


Whether you are thinking of remodeling, renovating or building new, the biggest hurdle for most is the cost of construction.  Planning your project is a delicate balancing act between what you want in your home and what you need, and somewhere between those two limits is where you will want to add up.  Often times, people come in with a concept only to find out that they can't afford it. How do you avoid this? Planning!!. Working with a team of professionals who know design, construction, permitting and costs allows the consumer to set realistic expectations, budgets and goals.  Our suggestion is to find out what you can afford to spend, and then tailor a project to achieve goals that are within that budget.  Construction costs, although stable in many respects have changed, especially in the coastal areas of Massachusetts.. See our article for more information on  Current and Future Construction Costs