Swanbuild Homes’ offer standard inclusions that are truly better than ‘standard', however, many clients choose to add a number of upgrades when designing their homes. These include: items that are difficult or more expensive to change later on; creature comforts that make life more effortless; or extras for the personal, stylish or modern touch.
Inalterable upgrades
When designing your home, you must inevitably weigh up what you want, and what you can afford. However, it is important to remember that certain elements of a home are almost impossible to change at a later date. In addition, incorporating them after the build will come at a greater cost.
High Pitched Roof/High Ceilings: A high pitched roof or high ceiling is clearly not something you can add to a house years later. Invest in a beautiful roof that will make your home feel spacious and give a sense of grandeur.
Sliding Stacker Doors: Invest in large sliding stacker doors that will transform your indoor/outdoor living area. Enjoy easy access to your outdoor area with doors that will stand the test of time.
Alfresco Under Original Roofline: In keeping with the indoor/outdoor theme, you may also like to splash out on a covered verandah and alfresco area during the original build. An outdoor area that comes under the same roofline of the house will look more unified and you can enjoy your alfresco area from the outset.
Windows: Another aspect difficult to change post build is the size, number and placement of windows in your home. Capture the light and warmth available to your home with windows of good size and all in the right places.
Upgrades in comfort
Invest in items that will make your home more comfortable and your life more effortless.
Heating/Cooling: Ducted and zoned reverse cycle heating/air conditioning will keep you comfortable, no matter the weather. Consider adding a heating vent and exhaust fan in the laundry for the ultimate drying room. Add fans to rooms that will be used often, for when you do not need to use the air conditioner. They can also be a statement addition to a room. Underfloor heating in tiled areas, while an investment to begin with, is an affordable heating option moving forward after your build.
Kitchen: Soft close doors and drawers means no more banging kitchen cupboards. This is ideal in a spot that is used regularly by the whole family. A bin drawer makes bench wiping and rubbish disposal easy. Incorporate a dishwasher to make cleaning dishes simple for everyone.
Bathroom: Build the ultimate bathroom. Think stepless showers and combination showers (with both an overhead shower and hand held shower). Invest in heat lamps and heated towel rails for the extra luxury of warmth after a shower. A built in shower niche gives you easy access to your shower products and keeps your shower space uncluttered. Build a back to wall toilet to eliminate the need to clean behind it.
Other: Whilst we don’t know everything that is in store for the future, it is good to be prepared for anything. Add capped plumbed points in areas where you may like a fridge, ice maker or filtered water station at a later date. Include points in your outdoor kitchen too, for water and gas, and extra power points in the garage, behind the television, and on the exterior of the house. This will give you more options for things like Christmas lights, a fridge in the garage, and gaming consoles alongside the television in the lounge area.
Personal, stylish and modern upgrades
Furthermore, we can customise your home to include personal touches to make it more ‘you’, to add style, or give a modern touch.
Downlights: Upgrade to smart lighting and future proof your home. Highlight your favourite artwork, photos or precious items on your walls, shelves and in your clear cupboards.
Brick bond or herringbone tile patterns: Rather than the standard traditional stack, opt for something different that reflects your tastes.
Black tapware: Be different and go for a sleek, modern look.
Upgraded electrical switches: Opt for safe and sophisticated switches, like Clipsal iconic.
Whilst the initial outlay may be more, it is worth considering upgrades that give you the quality of life you want, or make your home feel uniquely yours. (Especially elements that are almost impossible to alter or add later). Whether big or small, these upgrades will give you bang for your buck and make your house more liveable for the years to come. You really won’t have to change a thing!
Download your copy of our standard inclusions guide today to start planning your dream home.
