1. THE APPROACH TO A PROPERTY
A main feature in a property is the entrance as we all know. Not only the entrance, but the approach together with the landscape, the drive with the smell and outlook of beautifully kept gardens is what makes it. Personally, I really like to create an entrance patio where possible, which is almost like a part of the interior of the house. These patios can be created with walls, plants, sculptures, etc. If this isn’t possible, I would recommend opting for an internal patio. These are old farmhouse features which allow the property to be ventilated internally.
2. CHOICE OF FLOORING
The floor materials are of great input, and if working on a budget you should not save on this one. Coherence throughout, using the same material will increase the size of a villa immensely. If you’re on a higher budget I would suggest going for the best quality and size you can get.
3. TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT
It is essential to hide all technical equipment, such as air conditioning machines and solar panels. We have ways on how to hide these intrusive machines around the house, having a central heating system is an option.
4. MAKE IT PERSONAL
Often clients say to me that they would like to personalize the villa, but are hesitant as it might not be a selling feature. I have seen those properties that do stand out are selling way more than just a standard approach to architecture. In my opinion, you should not cut down on the amount of bedrooms for example, but you could always leave all kind of pre-installation for future use.
Do not be afraid to make personal design statements. Really cool and different houses sell quickly and for the highest prices. However, avoid round or triangular shapes in houses as they are quickly out-dated and show that the designer is just trying too hard!
5. RELAXING AREAS
Give your soul areas to settle. I tend to see, especially in many contemporary villas, that the house is just corridors, lots of activity in the choice of materials and not really a designated area to relax. Avoid passing through areas in living rooms, bedroom etc. One should create attractive relaxing areas in which to simply sit down and chill. I recommend avoid having to pass through one room to get to another.
6. SHADED OUTDOOR AREAS
Provide plenty of shade and as much covered terraces as you can. Decorate the covered areas with furniture and flowers and make them an exterior living room. Inside/outside living areas are key and should have as much shade as possible. This is far more important than sunny areas in my opinion.
7. CLOSET SPACE
Create as many walk-in closets as you can. Even having a small walk-in is better than fitted wardrobes in the room
8. LIGHTWELLS
When creating light wells, make them as big as possible, with lots of planting, which will make the basement feel less “basement-y”.
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