What to build is the real question.
Ask yourself, and those directly involved with “dwelling,” the following questions. The answers you provide will begin to recognize key aspects that will help shape your home and the way you will interact within it. Remember, building it is the easy part. What to build is the hard part.
Think about your current home.
What do you like about it? What don’t you like?
How do you expect to “inhabit your home?”
Are you there often or have a home based business? Do you like to entertain or cook? Do you have hobbies or special activities? Do you like to garden or spend time outdoors?
Why do you want a change?
Do you need more or less room? Do you have new interests or needs? What do you want from your home that you do not have now?
How will you use your new or improved home?
What activities will need space? Like cooking, sleeping, studying, working. How much space will you need for each function?
Are there features you want to incorporate?
A favorite cooktop, piece of furniture, or product you specifically need to accommodate?
What do you think it should look like?
What should it look like inside and outside (be general or specific)? Do you have photos or pages from magazines of what you like? If you do not, begin a folder of images and spaces you like.
How much time do you have to be involved in the process?
Do you plan to do any of the construction or finishing yourself? Who will be the primary contact during the design process? Who will be the primary contact during the construction phase?
What is your time line?
How soon would you like to be moved into your new home? Are there rigid time constraints or deadlines? What is your budget? How much can you realistically afford to spend on this project?
The answers to these questions will enable you to articulate your goals. The more details you provide, the better the design can begin to address your needs and goals.