If you’re thinking about building a custom home, we know you’re already dreaming of those custom home upgrades you can’t wait to make. And why not? One of the advantages of building your dream home is coming up with a list of special items that will make your home uniquely yours.
The great news is many of the features that used to be upgrades in custom homes are now considered standard inclusions for many home builders. In fact, as we plan new designs, we typically start planning using the features our buyers routinely favored, meaning “standard” may already be what you’ve been considering all along. And while some details might vary by region, many options—like hardwood floors, open-concept kitchens, and luxurious bathrooms—are tried-and-true across the boundaries of regions and states.
If you’re wondering what custom home upgrades to consider, we have a few highlights for you to think about as you look beyond builders’ basic offerings.
Create a Bathroom Sanctuary
One of today’s hot custom home upgrades is all about giving yourself an incredible bathroom that’s more of a getaway than anything else. The long-popular trend of separate tubs and showers are just a given today. Most builders are incorporating those distinct spaces into even the most basic floor plans.
For something a little more personal to you and your needs, we see two great trends for you to consider. First of all, if you have time for an oversized tub with more at-home time, deep, freestanding soaking tubs may just give you the spa-like atmosphere you’re looking for. These tubs have the ability to transform a classic design into a statement piece that’s both modern and elegant.
If you don’t think you’ll make time for long soaks you don’t need to sacrifice with a lackluster shower stall. Cave-like grotto showers with seating and intricate stonework can give your bathroom a rustic feel that’s perfect for the aesthetic of a custom lake home.
Make the Kitchen the Heart of the Home
As homeowners continue to look for ways to entertain, you’ll likely be looking for spots where your guests can sit and chat. That’s why large kitchen islands that serve as the centerpiece of the kitchen and extend into living spaces remain at the top of the list of hot custom home upgrades. Once again, islands are largely a must-have with most modern builders and are typically designed into every home.
In fact, today’s modern kitchens are taking on new life through other premium upgrades. For example, stainless cooktops and ranges are perfect for any dream kitchen while under-counter lighting and lighted cabinet interiors create an elegant ambiance.
And while granite countertops were once enviable upgrades, this style, too, is becoming something more standard. However, consider adding granite that features an exotic pattern and contrasting it against the rest of the kitchen’s design to give it more dimension. White granite exists but is hard to find in large slabs, so a great alternative is marble. Or, quartz countertops like Silestone or Caesarstone are not only beautiful, but they are also highly durable, easy to maintain, and non-porous. It’s a difference you’ll notice through the years.
The Rest is in the Details
One of the custom home upgrades to consider as a splurge item may be in your lighting. Fabric shades and intricate glass designs can add a touch a class in normally subtle locations.
Material upgrades will continue to be an opportunity to create a home with distinction. On the outside of the home, upgrading from brick to stone can add an inviting richness to the exterior. And the moment you walk in the door, hardwoods can draw the eye into the great room areas. We’re seeing dark-stained planks in multiple widths growing in popularity for eye-catching design elements.
And finally, mudrooms and smartly planned storage areas just outside of the garage still provide well-designed “drop zones.” Whether it’s a place to stash keys or store mail or an organized spot for backpacks and computer bags, there are countless opportunities to create a spot that’s both parts form and function. While some of these spaces also double as laundry rooms, you may want to customize them with coat lockers and cubbies for simple but smart storage.
