Today's prefabricated home manufacturing technologies have virtually eliminated design constraints. Here are a few tips that you will find useful in designing your custom prefab home. You can always contact DRM Investments for help with any questions or to learn more about prefab home design.
A prefab home is constructed by assembling a group of modules to create the finished home structure. Each of these modules is individually transported to your site. When designing a modular home it is more cost effective.
A large variety of complex roof lines add to the overall expense of the construction for your home. While it is important to design a home you will be proud to live in, don't underestimate the positive impact on your home budget of simplified roof lines.
Don't feel constrained by placement of bathrooms. Plumbing is relatively cheap. Don't let your concern for plumbing costs impact your plan. Design it for your lifestyle first.
Open space is important. Prefab homes allow for vaulted ceilings, cathedral ceilings, and even 9' high ceilings. Open spaces on marriage walls (the structural joint where modules meet) have typical engineering restrictions. If you want larger openings it is usually possible to insert a small support with a decorative covering to make it appear as an intended part of the design.
Keep track of the exterior appearance and location of windows and doors as well as the interior appearance. There are building code requirements that determine the minimum size and opening areas for windows.
The size of the rooms of your home ultimately depends on you and your lifestyle requirements. The basic area guidelines for homes that you may follow are:
- Dining Room: Between 125 - 200 sq. feet
- Living Room: 175- 330 sq. feet
- Master Bedroom: 145- 300 sq. feet
- Bathroom: 40-80 sq. feet
- Kitchen: 135- 300 sq. feet