8 Floor Plan Tips for Designing the Perfect Rural Home
Are you ready to dive into the world of rural real estate development but feeling a bit stumped about how to craft the perfect floor plan? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are eight tips to help you nail your project’s layout and make sure those country dreams turn into reality, not headaches.
1. 3-Bed vs. 4-Bed: The Country Conundrum
The “three or four-bedroom” debate is a classic. If you’re stuck between building a top-notch three-bedroom or an “okay” four-bedroom, go for the quality three. Trust us, a good three-bed beats a squeezed-in four-bed any day.
You don’t want to skimp on the essentials – like spacious living areas, a laundry that doesn’t double as a broom closet, or a kitchen that feels less like a galley and more like the heart of the home. Keep those spaces roomy, and your buyers will thank you.
2. Powder Room Placement: Don’t Get Caught in a Sticky Situation
In rural homes, the powder room isn’t just a convenience—it’s a must. But make sure you place it where it doesn’t feel like it’s right in the middle of everything. You wouldn’t want guests to feel like they’re on stage every time they need a bathroom break.
Keep it tucked away and out of sight, so it feels private and practical without becoming the star of the living room show.
3. Master Bedroom Location: Keep It Grounded
In a one-story home, the master bedroom can enjoy a prime spot with easy access to the rest of the house while still offering some privacy. Think about locating it at the end of a hallway or in a quieter corner of the home, where it can benefit from natural light and perhaps even a view of the garden.
A well-positioned master bedroom adds a touch of luxury without making the layout feel cramped or awkward.
4. Single vs. Double Garage: Go Big or Go Smart
In a perfect world, every rural home would have a double garage with room for cars, tractors, and that vintage bike collection. But we all know reality often calls for compromise. If space is tight, think flexibly – perhaps a mix of a single garage and a carport can do the trick.
Remember, rural living often means wide-open spaces, so if the garage has to give, find other clever ways to make up for it, like extra driveway space for parking.
5. Storage: The Country Essential
You can never have too much storage, especially in the countryside. A one-story home means you don’t have attics or basements to stash things away, so be generous with built-in storage solutions.
Think walk-in closets, spacious pantries, and custom shelving in the laundry room. And don’t forget about clever outdoor storage options like garden sheds and covered spaces for tools and equipment.
6. Alfresco Areas: Outdoor Living Done Right
In rural settings, alfresco living is almost a way of life. But if your site coverage is maxed out, consider an uncovered outdoor area to keep that open-air feel without breaching regulations. Think pergolas, open rafters, or a simple patio for a rustic outdoor dining area.
You can still enjoy the outdoor charm of country living while keeping the floor plan spacious and functional inside.
7. Home Office: It’s Non-Negotiable
The rise of remote work has made the home office essential, not an afterthought. If you’re designing a rural retreat, make sure you include a space that’s more than just a “study nook” wedged into a hallway. Rural living often means slower commutes and more nature to enjoy, so make the home office a space that can be closed off and used as a real, functioning workspace. Make sure it’s away from the main living areas to reduce noise distractions, and consider including built-in storage to keep it tidy.
8. Reverse Living? Not So Much Here
In a one-story rural home, reverse living isn’t really a consideration. Stick to traditional layouts where living areas are the heart of the home and bedrooms are positioned for a little more quiet and seclusion. The key is to create a flow that feels natural and spacious, with easy access to outdoor areas.
