Space planning and room layout decisions can make your new home more comfortable, functional, and visually appealing right from the start. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help new homeowners on how to strategically create a custom floor plan for their new home before move-in day:

  1. Assess Your Needs and Lifestyle
  • List your must-haves.
  • Consider how you’ll use each space. Do you need a home office, kids’ play area, or workout space?
  • Think about your daily routines. Place frequently used rooms and items where they’re most convenient.
  1. Measure Your New Space
  • Obtain a floor plan.
  • Request one from your builder or real estate agent, or measure each room yourself.
  • Note features – pay attention to windows, doors, built-ins, and electrical outlets.
  1. Take Inventory of Your Furniture and Belongings
  • Measure your furniture -ensure it fits comfortably in your new rooms.
  • Decide what to keep and what to replace, as your current furniture may not fit as well.
  • Sell or donate items that won’t work in your new layout.
  • Order new furniture and arrange delivery to your new home.
  1. Sketch Your Custom Floor Plan
  • Use graph paper or try free online planners/tools.
  • Experiment with layouts – try multiple arrangements to see what works best for traffic flow and functionality.
  1. Plan for Flexibility
  • Leave space for change – avoid over-furnishing as your needs may evolve once you have lived in your new space for a while.
  • Create multipurpose areas. Use furniture that can serve double duty, like a guest room with a fold-out desk or a Murphy bed that has a built-in desk.
  1. Focus on Functionality and Comfort
  • Prioritize walkways – allow at least 3 feet of clearance for easy movement between furniture.
  • Group related activities – for example, place the dining area near the kitchen for convenience.
  1. Lighting
  • Consider natural light – position seating and workspaces near windows when possible.
  • Plan for artificial lighting: Identify where you’ll need lamps, overhead fixtures, or task lighting.
  1. Organize Before Move-In
  • Label boxes and general contents by room – this will make the move-in process smoother and quicker by directing movers to the right spaces.
  • Set up the essential rooms first – focus on bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen so you can settle in comfortably.
  1. Final Walk-Through

Imagine living in the space. Does the flow feel right? Are outlets accessible? Adjust as needed before move-in day so that the movers can place furniture in the correct rooms.

By planning your space before move-in, you’ll save time and reduce stress. For more information on how to create a custom floor plan for your new home before move-in day, and to get a moving quote, contact Premiere Van Lines.