When it comes to new home design, there are seemingly endless considerations. One of these involves the question of whether you should prioritize form or function. Not only do you want your home to be appealing, but you want the design to function in a way that meets your family’s needs. So, what do you do? Let us help uncover what these design elements are and find the answer to this question!
These shelves are the perfect example of a functional design element in a home.
Form vs. Function
Building a new home is not only an exciting journey but a big investment in your life. And when it comes to the design the big question about form or function comes into play. But what do each of these design principles mean?
Form is the aesthetic aspect of a home. Think of artsy architecture (that isn’t structurally necessary) and finishes like flooring and the wood used for cabinetry. The layout of a home and the way a room is used is the function. Function also includes practical things like storage space and a large kitchen island if you like to cook and entertain.
So, Which is More Important?
Of the two design principles, function is more important in terms of home design and construction. If you sacrifice function for the sake of form, then you’ll be left with a house that looks incredible but will have some unusable spaces. A home without functional design elements may also have issues with proportions and accessibility, or could lack essentials like storage space and adequate lighting.
With that said, there are reasons that you shouldn’t give up form completely. For example, there might be a stunning view you want on one side of your home, but installing a wall of windows might affect the energy rating of your home. To get the views, you’ll have to sacrifice a little function in favor of form.
This is an example of balancing form and function. The form comes in through the funky wainscotting and wallpaper, while the bigger space helps to balance everything out with its functionality.
How to Balance Both
Striking a balance of both form and function for your new home design is ideal. Before any building starts, make sure you and the builder sit down and talk about your priorities, needs, wants, and how the home will be used.
Will several children be living in the home, or will grandchildren only visit occasionally? Do you like entertaining large groups or prefer spending quiet nights alone? Do you prefer clean lines, or do you have more of a maximalist, eclectic taste? These are important questions to consider and go over with the builder so they can find you the perfect balance of form and function for your home. At the end of the day, your perfect balance is unique to your situation and has to work for when you live there.
Ridgeline Homes Will Bring Your Ideas to Life
The right balance of form and function is unique to each family. So, use a builder you can trust to get the balance right. Ready to start your new home design? Ridgeline Homes would be happy to help! We’re based in Montrose, Colorado, and are ready to start this exciting process with you.
