House Trend: More Playful Homes

The playful Hip Cottage with Basement.

According to a RealtorMag.com article by Barbara Ballinger, more playful homes are what people want.  Why?  "Americans work harder now than ever, with many delaying retirement or starting second careers, so they want their homes to be a refuge and a place to unwind."

Adding that playful aspect to a house is something we know how to do.

Basement bonus room with kitchenette.

We design small homes for those looking to downsize, yet retain that playful space to relax. After deciding on a footprint for the necessary rooms, like the living room, kitchen, bedrooms, and baths, we look for ways to increase the enjoyment of your home life.  Adding a basement bonus room to a small house provides a place to unwind after the pressures of the day.  A theater room, billiards table, ping pong table or just a cushy couch and tv provide a place to loosen up and relax.  By adding a kitchenette to the room you've increased the opportunities.   
Example:  The Hip Cottage with Basement Foundation.

Porches Cottage with Roof Deck

We design homes that take advantage of the space under your house as well as above it.  If you're able to, building a basement under your house provides a place for a recreation or bonus room, as mentioned above.  Another way to add playfulness to your home is to build a roof deck above it.  A roof deck provides a place to watch the sunset or entertain guests at a dinner party with a spectacular view.  It's a spot to grill, a location to soak up the sun, or a place just sit and unwind.
Example:  The Lookout Cottage with Basement Foundation and the Porches Cottage with Roof Deck.

Backyard putting green by Carolina Custom Putting Greens.

Some of the ways you can get a more playful home is dependent on the lot you buy.  Look for one where you can have fun things like a backyard pool, your own putting green, a fire pit, install that pizza oven you've always wanted, or landscape the beautiful gardens you've seen in magazines.


If you're interested in designing or remodeling your home to add more playfulness to it, let us help you create a design at www.mcleodarchitect.com.  Or view our architect designed house plans, including the cottages mentioned above, at www.southerncottages.com.