Building a custom modern home is a thrilling endeavor that allows homeowners to create a space tailored to their unique needs and preferences. However, it is essential to understand that the cost of building a custom modern home can be higher compared to other options like semi-custom or production homes. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the various factors that contribute to the higher cost of building a custom modern home and elucidate why it is a worthwhile investment.
What Makes an AV Custom Home Expensive?
1. All-Inclusive Service
One significant aspect that affects the pricing of custom modern homes is the comprehensive, all-inclusive service provided by builders such as AV Architects + Builders. These companies offer an integrated approach where both the architectural and construction teams work together under one roof. This cohesive collaboration minimizes miscommunication and ensures a seamless and efficient project execution. Additionally, the cost includes architectural plans, structural engineering, civil engineering, and architectural and civil permitting fees. This all-inclusive service eliminates the need for homeowners to engage multiple parties separately, saving both time and potential additional costs.
2. Main Level Living
Custom modern homes often prioritize main level living, allocating a significant portion, typically around 60%, of the total square footage to the main floor. This design philosophy, known as Vacation Style LivingTM, aims to create a home that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle and daily needs. While this approach may be more expensive due to the larger footprint required, it enhances convenience and accessibility. By having essential living spaces on the main level, such as the kitchen, living room, master suite, and laundry room, homeowners can enjoy the ease of navigating their home without the need to frequently climb stairs.
3. More Windows and Less Doors
The emphasis on natural light and indoor-outdoor integration in custom modern homes often leads to the inclusion of more windows and fewer doors. This design choice allows for a greater influx of natural light, creating bright and airy spaces. However, incorporating more windows requires additional structural support, increasing construction costs. Nevertheless, the strategic use of windows throughout the home promotes a strong connection to the outdoors, providing captivating views and an immersive experience. This intentional design approach enhances the sense of openness and harmony with nature.
4. More Steel and Long Span Lumber
Custom modern homes frequently feature open-concept designs that prioritize spaciousness and fluidity between rooms. Achieving this architectural aesthetic necessitates the use of more steel and long span lumber, which are typically more expensive compared to traditional building materials. These materials provide the necessary structural integrity to support the open layout and create visually striking architectural elements such as expansive glass walls, soaring ceilings, and cantilevered structures. Incorporating these modern and innovative construction materials results in a unique and visually impressive home.
5. Covered Outdoor Spaces Included
Unlike many other builders, custom modern home builders often include covered outdoor spaces in their pricing. Recognizing the importance of indoor-outdoor integration, these builders incorporate at least one covered outdoor space, such as a patio or deck, and a covered front entryway into their designs. These covered outdoor areas not only extend the usable living space but also allow homeowners to enjoy the natural surroundings while providing protection from the elements. Such inclusion adds to the overall cost of the project but enhances the lifestyle benefits and provides opportunities for outdoor entertainment and relaxation.
6. Unique and Tailored Designs
One of the defining characteristics of custom modern homes is their individuality. Each home is designed from scratch, ensuring that no two floor plans are the same. The custom home design process allows for extensive personalization and tailoring to match the homeowner's unique lifestyle, preferences, and aesthetic vision. While this level of customization contributes to the higher cost, it also results in a home that truly reflects the homeowner's personality and supports their lifestyle.
7. High-Quality Modern Materials
Custom modern homes prioritize the use of high-quality building materials to ensure durability, longevity, and reduced maintenance requirements. These materials may cost more upfront but provide long-term benefits. For example, porcelain pavers are commonly used in exterior spaces due to their fade resistance, non-porous nature, and resistance to heat. Opting for such materials enhances the overall quality and functionality of the home.
Is a Custom Home Right for Me?
Building a custom modern home is a significant investment, but it offers unparalleled benefits in terms of personalization, functionality, and aesthetics. The higher cost associated with building a custom modern home can be justified by the all-inclusive services, main level living, abundant natural light, modern construction materials, covered outdoor spaces, and the ability to create a truly tailored and unique design.
If you are considering building a custom modern home and want to explore the possibilities, we invite you to reach out to us at AV Architects + Builders. We offer a free consultation to discuss your project, understand your vision, and provide guidance on how we can bring your dream home to life.
Our experienced team of architects and builders is ready to collaborate with you, ensuring a seamless and rewarding custom home building experience. Contact us today to take the first step towards creating your dream home.
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