joomla analytics
Select Page

At PSE Consulting Engineers, Inc., we are big advocates of building modular. Prefabricated modular buildings are the most affordable and fastest ways to get from design to a complete project. Modular homes can be custom-made with the same freedom and flexibility as designing a traditionally built home, and the design process looks similar.

Designing a modular home is one of the most accessible ways to get the custom home you have always dreamed of. However, since the design process can be daunting to newcomers, we will share some of the most important things to think about while designing a modular home, so you end up with everything you want.

WHAT IS A MODULAR HOME?

The difference between a modular home and a traditional home is where they’re built. Manufacturers build modular homes in sections within a controlled factory environment, unlike conventional homes built outdoors on-site. A controlled environment means a faster building process and less waiting time. Once construction is complete, the pieces are brought to the property and installed on a permanent foundation.

Modular builds have significant advantages over traditional on-site buildings without sacrificing quality. Modular homes tend to be more affordable than traditional homes, and they can take as little as half the time to build and assemble. Every aspect of a modular home can be customized, which means you can have a custom home sooner than ever for less money.

DESIGNING A MODULAR HOME

Designing your dream home should be an exciting experience, not a stressful and challenging one. The following guide to modular home design is an overview of what you should consider while designing your new modular home. The following process is not concrete, but these steps will help you have a better idea of your next home and enable you to effectively communicate with designers, architects, and modular home manufacturers in the future.

BRAINSTORM

Before committing to any design choices, we recommend taking the time to brainstorm a laundry list of ideas for your new modular home. Start broad at first and narrow your choices down as you proceed through the design process. You should consider things such as the number of rooms and bathrooms, number of stories, and must-have amenities.

You will refine the list throughout the process but making it will get you thinking about what you want and make future decisions much more straightforward. After the brainstorming process is complete, you can begin finalizing your design by focusing on one area at a time.

HOW MUCH ROOM DO YOU NEED?

A common misconception about modular homes is that they are smaller than traditional homes. Not only is this untrue, but most people end up paying less per square foot for a modular home than they would a traditionally built home of the same size. 

Size is the most important consideration when designing a modular home, and you should get an idea of the amount of space needed before getting into particulars. First, determine how many rooms you need to accommodate your household, and then ask yourself if you plan to increase your family’s size anytime in the future?

You should also consider things like office space, playrooms, dining rooms, washrooms, and any other type of room you feel is essential to your future home.

Now that you have a number in mind for the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and other rooms, you should consider a general layout, specifically, whether you want all of the rooms on a single story or spread out between two floors.

LAYOUT DESIGN

With all the necessary rooms in mind, you can start to figure out where everything will go. Once building begins, you can’t change the layout, so you should take your time on this step and fully consider the implications of room placement.

For example, if you have young children, putting their bedroom close to yours might make sense. You wouldn’t want a bathroom attached to the kitchen, but one inside the master bedroom is different. It may seem trivial now, but taking the time to consider such things is better than moving into your new home just to discover it was a bad idea to place a theater above your office.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Have you always dreamt of having a patio, fireplace, or balcony attached to your bedroom? Now is the time to consider all your wants and decide between those things you must have and those you can live without. This step is where you make your modular home design truly unique to your tastes.

Additional features may seem insignificant, but they take considerable planning to incorporate into the final product. Having these things in mind before you meet with an architect or modular home manufacturer will streamline the official design process.

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DESIGN

The final step in our brief approach to modular home design is the interior and exterior finish. You should consider the finish and color of exterior siding, windows, and doors. On the inside, you need to think about floor type, paint color, light and fan fixtures, cabinets, kitchen, and bathroom design.

The interior and exterior design of your new home will be discussed in-depth with a representative from the modular home manufacturer you choose. This process goes much smoother when you arrive with a clear vision of how you want your new home to look.

MODULAR HOME DESIGN FROM PSE CONSULTING ENGINEERS, INC.

Designing your new modular home should be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. Our team of engineers and designers is licensed in several states and can assist you throughout the entire design process. Contact PSE Consulting Engineers for a comprehensive, cooperative, and ideal modular house design.