Dream Home Dilemma: Architecturally Designed vs. Project Home in Western Australia
Building your dream home in Western Australia? Whether you're eyeing off the beaches of Broome or the city suburbs of Perth, the question arises: architecturally designed masterpiece or project home practicality? Both options have their pros and cons, and the answer ultimately depends on your unique needs and budget.
Project Home: Quick & Convenient
There’s nothing wrong with a project home (well, maybe a few things…). Sometimes it’s exactly what you need for the stage of life you’re in. As i’ve mentioned before, my family and I have recently sold our architecturally designed home to move into a project home temporarily while we work on building the next one. There are many positives to it such as easily closed off rooms, as opposed to our previous open living arrangement, as well as a large more spacious backyard. Of course, I wouldn’t be an architect if I didn’t also point out some of its drawbacks such as large, wasted spaces and inconsistent flow!
Pros:
Budget-Friendly: Project homes offer pre-determined plans and fixed costs, making budgeting easier.
Faster Build Time: In a normalized market; standardized designs streamline the construction process, leading to a quicker move-in date.
Minimal Hassle: With pre-selected finishes and materials, decision-making is simplified, potentially reducing stress.
Cons:
Limited Flexibility: Customisation options are usually restricted, meaning you might compromise on your ideal layout or features.
Cookie-Cutter Appeal: Your home might resemble many others in the neighborhood, sacrificing individuality.
Hidden Costs: Upgrades and changes to standard plans can add up quickly, potentially exceeding your initial budget.
Not always quick: Currently WA is going through an interesting period that started with COVID-19. Due to huge demands on your typical spec builders; we’re finding construction times for project homes are pushing out more than 2 years, while custom home builders have time frames that can sometimes be half of this.
Architecturally Designed: Uniquely You
As an architect… I’m a big fan of architecturally designed homes. If I had my way, every house would be. It offers you the full range of customisability and allows each home to be perfectly tailored to the individual and their specific needs, likes and dislikes. However, I gotta stay impartial here and make sure we touch on some of the very few negatives such as additional time commitment and increased upfront cost considerations.
Pros:
Tailor-made for YOU: Embrace your individuality with a home that reflects your lifestyle, aesthetics, and dreams. From ocean views to sun-drenched courtyards, an architect creates a space that seamlessly blends with your vision and the Western Australian landscape.
Sustainable Savvy: Architects prioritize energy efficiency and environmentally friendly materials, saving you money on bills and minimizing your environmental footprint. Imagine cool breezes naturally ventilating your home or solar panels harnessing the WA sun!
Investment for the Future: A well-designed home often boasts increased resale value due to its unique features and thoughtful layout. Think of it as an investment in your future.
Cons:
Cost Consideration: Hiring an architect adds an initial expense compared to project homes. However, long-term benefits like energy efficiency and increased resale value can offset the initial cost.
Time Commitment: The design process takes time, requiring patience and collaboration with your architect. But remember, good things come to those who wait!
Finding the Right Fit: Choosing the right architect is crucial. Look for experience in WA's climate and regulations, and someone who aligns with your design vision.
The Verdict: It's All About You!
As we tend to say frequently at Cynosure; there's no one-size-fits-all answer. If you prioritize personalisation, sustainability, and a unique home reflecting your lifestyle, an architecturally designed home might be your perfect match. But if budget and speed are major concerns, a project home could be a viable option.
Remember, building your dream home is a significant investment. Carefully consider your needs, priorities, and budget before making a decision. The big takeaway here is that you should consult with both architects and builders in Western Australia to gain insights and find the path that leads to your dream home before committing to either.
Bonus Tip: Consider a hybrid approach! Some builders offer semi-customisable project homes, allowing for some modifications to pre-existing plans. You could even take it a step further by working with an architect’s design and collaborating with a builder to achieve even greater cost savings. This could offer a balance between affordability and personalisation.
Looking for an architect in Western Australia? We can help! Contact us today to discuss your dream home vision and explore the possibilities!
