Problematic Home Designs: Solve Them with Creativity and Make Them Functional

Posted: Sep 27, 2012
Author: 1st Choice Home Centers

Home designs are supposed to bring all the separate elements of a space together to make it look aesthetically pleasing and functional at the same time. But, often this goal is not achieved for whatever reasons. If you’re not happy with certain elements in your home, here are just two examples of how creative home designs can give a whole new feel.

PORCH

If you sense that something is missing at the front of your house, adding a porch can create a look of completion. One important rule, however, about a new porch is to stay with your home’s original design. For example, for ranch-style home designs, the porch should be narrower than the front of your house. Also keep the railings and spindles simple.

Conversely, if your home has two stories, a porch that covers the whole front of the house will create a fantastic gathering place for family, friends, and neighbors. If you wrap the porch around one side, the house will look bigger and you could even include a curve to add character.

TERRACED GARDEN

If there’s a steep slope in your backyard, don’t be discouraged – a terraced garden will solve the problem. There are several ways to create intimate, usable spaces on slopes. A terraced garden moves down a steep slope like steps. The terraces, each of which is a few feet tall, will give you a lovely garden for vegetables and flowers alike.

Plant bright flocks along the edges to create a dramatic color pallet to the gardens. Build the walls out of retaining wall blocks, treated wood, concrete or stone.