Building a custom home is an exciting opportunity to create a living space tailored to your exact needs and lifestyle. At Cut Above Construction & Design, we believe in going beyond the basics to deliver homes that are both functional and forward-thinking. Here are 7 future-proof custom home features to consider when planning your custom home that will add convenience, efficiency, and a touch of luxury to your everyday life.
1. Ice Line Loop Under the Kitchen Sink
If you’re considering installing a reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration system in the future, an ice line loop under the kitchen sink is a game-changer. By adding this feature during construction, you can easily connect the RO system to your refrigerator’s ice maker and water dispenser without the need for additional plumbing work later. This foresight ensures that your family will always have access to purified water and ice, enhancing both the quality of your drinking water and your overall kitchen experience.
2. Strategically Placed Floodlights with Remote Control
Lighting plays a crucial role in home security and convenience. Installing corner and roof peak floodlights around your home, connected to your smartphone, allows you to control exterior lighting without leaving the comfort of your bed. Additionally, placing switches by the front and back doors provides easy access when entering or leaving the house. This setup not only adds an extra layer of security but also ensures that your property is well-lit during nighttime hours, making your home safer and more accessible.
3. Air Returns in Every Room
Efficient heating and cooling systems are a must for homes in 2024. By ensuring that each room has its own air return, you create a more balanced and efficient HVAC system. This feature prevents pressure imbalances that can lead to uneven heating or cooling across your home. Moreover, installing a large cold air return at the HVAC unit with oversized filters (larger than typically recommended) helps to maximize airflow and filter efficiency. For example, a standard 20 x 25 x 1 filter may only be rated for around 2.5 tons of airflow, which is generally sufficient for 1,800 to 2,000 square feet of space. By opting for a larger filter, you can ensure optimal air quality and system performance, making your home more energy-efficient.
4. Electrical Outlets Near Every Toilet
With the increasing popularity of bidets and smart toilets, having an electrical outlet near each toilet is a smart addition to any custom home. These outlets provide the necessary power for advanced features like heated seats, built-in bidets, and automatic flush mechanisms. Even if you don’t plan on installing these features right away, having the outlets in place will make future upgrades hassle-free and keep your home ahead of the curve in terms of modern amenities.
5. Electric Car Charger in the Garage
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, having a dedicated electric car charger in your garage is quickly becoming a must-have feature for custom homes. Installing a Level 2 charger during construction ensures that your home is ready for the future of transportation. This feature not only adds convenience for current or future EV owners but also increases your home’s resale value as more buyers look for homes equipped with EV charging capabilities.
6. Pre-Wired Smart Home System
In today’s digital age, a smart home system is no longer a luxury but a standard expectation for many homeowners. By pre-wiring your home for smart technology, you can easily integrate various devices, such as lighting, thermostats, security cameras, and sound systems, into a centralized control system. This setup allows for seamless automation and control of your home environment, whether you’re at home or away. Investing in this infrastructure during the construction phase saves time and money compared to retrofitting an existing home and ensures that your home is equipped to handle the latest smart technologies.
7. Pre-wiring for Solar Panels and Battery Storage
When building your custom home, it’s wise to consider the future of energy consumption and sustainability. Pre-wiring for solar panels and battery storage is a strategic move that can significantly enhance your home’s value and reduce long-term energy costs. By integrating the necessary infrastructure during construction, you’ll be ready to install solar panels and battery systems whenever you’re ready, without the need for expensive retrofitting. This not only positions your home to take advantage of renewable energy but also provides the flexibility to go off-grid or significantly reduce your dependence on traditional power sources as energy technology continues to evolve. Future-proofing your home in this way ensures that you’re prepared for the growing shift toward sustainable living, making it an investment in both your property and the environment.
Modern Custom Home Builder in Pueblo, CO
Building a custom home is an opportunity to create a living space that is uniquely yours. By incorporating these seven features, you can enhance your home’s functionality, convenience, and long-term value. At Cut Above Construction & Design, we specialize in bringing your vision to life with precision and expertise. Let’s build your dream home, complete with the thoughtful touches that make all the difference.
Whether you’re just starting the planning process or ready to break ground, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you create the perfect custom home tailored to your lifestyle and needs.