Gina Jennings, Author at Landmark Fine Homes

Understanding Flooring Options in Home Design

One of the most exciting parts about designing your own new home is choosing all the details, like fixtures and flooring. Particularly if you have not designed a home in a while, however, some of the flooring options available to you may surprise you. New developments in technology and design have elevated some flooring types you might have previously avoided, and that means you have more choices and more room to express yourself. As you are considering the different types of flooring, keep in mind that your final decision should be based not just on the look of the floor, but how well it will fit with your lifestyle and stand up to the usage your family will give it.

Different Flooring Types to Consider

Whether you are looking for something durable for a high traffic area, moisture resistant for a bathroom, or stylish for an entertaining space, you are spoiled for options.

For people who want the look of a wood floor, there are a variety of different flooring options that fit the bill.
- Solid hardwood is beautiful and can be refinished if it sustains damage. However, it requires a fair amount of maintenance and can get expensive, especially if you opt for exotic hardwoods like mahogany or Brazilian cherry.
- Engineered hardwood can give the same look as solid hardwoods, but it is less expensive and doesn’t require the same level of maintenance. Engineered wood floors do not shrink and swell with the seasons, as solid wood floors are likely to do, and they can be installed directly over a concrete subfloor. Some engineered wood can be refinished, but only once, whereas solid wood can be refinished several times.
- There is porcelain tile flooring that looks like wood. While this won’t have the same feel as a true wood floor, it can be a very practical choice for a room with heavy foot traffic, like a hallway, foyer, or mudroom. Tile flooring has many benefits, because it is durable, will not scratch, stain, or wear out, doesn’t fade, and is waterproof.
- Laminate flooring is made to look like wood. It is an economical option, and is fairly low maintenance, though it cannot stand up to a lot of water, so it must be cleaned with a damp mop or Swiffer.
- Vinyl flooring can also be made with a wood look. Vinyl plank flooring is made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and it is less expensive than wood floors. It can be very durable in high traffic areas, and is waterproof. However, while it is sturdier option than laminate, even the best vinyl plank flooring does not mimic hardwood up close, so while it is a good option for a basement, it might not give you the aesthetics you want in a living room.
Vinyl flooring has come a long way, and it is a durable, low-maintenance option. In addition to wood, vinyl can now be made to look like stone or other natural materials, but at a fraction of the cost. It can stand up to high moisture environments like bathrooms, and it won’t scratch or chip. Vinyl flooring comes in tiles, sheets, or planks, and is a good option for laundry rooms, basements, porches, and other places where durability is the primary concern.
Porcelain tiles can take a lot of punishment, and they are versatile enough to give you the look you want. The beauty of today’s flooring is that it can be made to eliminate pattern repetition and incorporate texture. That means that you can get the look of stone, marble, or wood in a much sturdier material. In addition to natural materials, porcelain tiles can be made to look like handmade ceramic tiles. It is an extremely durable and low-maintenance option, though it can crack if something heavy is dropped on it. Still, it is a good option for just about every room of the house, and can even be made with a textured surface to prevent slips.

Design Your Perfect New Home with Landmark Fine Homes

If you are looking for a builder that provides plenty of design options for creating your perfect new home, you have found us! Landmark Fine Homes has beautiful new and custom-built homes in a variety of sizes and floorplans, just waiting to become yours. Our homes are energy efficient and built with the utmost attention to detail, located in active adult communities where you’ll find plenty to do. Make your next house the home of your dreams by contacting Landmark Fine Homes today!\

Planning Ahead for Home Modifications

When you invest in a home, it should be a place where you can comfortably live for many years. Since situations change as life goes on, however, many families find that they outgrow their house, or it ceases to meet their needs. Carefully planning ahead for home expansions and modifications while you are still in the design stage of home building is a wise move, because it makes it more likely that your home will still work for you in the future.

Why Plan for Future Home Expansions and Modifications?

Let’s face it: moving is a hassle. What’s more, you chose your home because you like the neighborhood and the house. In fact, if you are building a new home, you are probably custom designing it to be perfect for you. The question becomes one of keeping it perfect for you, even if your life changes. Is there a possibility that your family will expand? This could happen if you have another child, need to care for an aging relative, or have a grown child who returns to the nest. Preparing for this possibility by ensuring you can add on to your home is a wise move, even if the idea seems remote at the moment. Then, too, if you plan to age in place, you may need to modify your home for accessibility purposes.

Home Expansions for Future Life Changes

In order to build onto a house, several elements must be in place. First, your addition must be in compliance with local regulations. Then, you will need to have structural elements in place to support the expansion of your home. A strong foundation is crucial if you plan to add another floor, and crawl spaces and basements make it easier to remodel. Simple roof design and strategic placement of walls can also make it easier to expand a house without compromising its structural integrity. If you think you may eventually need a stairway or elevator, this should be discussed and planned during the initial design phase of home building. Consider utilities and layout, as well. Make sure you have an HVAC, electrical system, and plumbing system that will support future expansion. Leaving an unfinished space, like an attic or the area over your garage, can give you the flexibility to expand as you need to.

Modifications to Allow Your Home to Change with You

Accessibility is one reason you might need to modify your home, but it’s not the only reason. Think about the possibility-- likely an inevitability—of technological upgrades in the future. Designing a home that keeps up with modern technology will ensure that you won’t have to do a major overhaul later. It may also be wise to allow space for potential renewable energy sources like solar panels. Planning ahead for accessibility needs is not difficult. By incorporating universal design principles, like using wide doorways and hallways, you can create a home that will accommodate you now and in the future, remaining accessible as your needs change.

Let Landmark Fine Homes Build Your Forever Home

Landmark Fine Homes has beautiful new and custom-built homes in a variety of sizes and floorplans, just waiting to become yours. Our homes are energy efficient and built with the utmost attention to detail, located in active adult communities where you’ll find plenty to do. Make your next house the home of your dreams by contacting Landmark Fine Homes today!

Since the implementation of the ADA, you have probably noticed more accessible features in corporate buildings. Elevator access, wheelchair ramps, and handicap restroom stalls are all examples of accessible spaces in commercial environments. But what does accessibility mean when you are designing your home? The key to designing for accessibility in a home environment is to avoid anything that feels sterile, opting instead for a design that adapts to you organically, in a way that feels natural, welcoming, and comfortable.

Considerations for Accessible Design

When planning for accessible design, consideration should be given not only to current needs, but also to future accessibility requirements. Especially for those planning to age in place, it is crucial to anticipate what will be necessary as time goes by and occupants grow older. What’s more, accessibility is not just about avoiding trip hazards or navigating space with limited mobility. Vision and hearing tend to diminish as people grow older, and an accessible home needs to provide for those needs, as well.

Building an Accessible Home

One consideration for accessible design is an open floor plan. This type of layout ticks a lot of boxes when it comes to accessibility, offering wider areas and fewer obstacles so that people with mobility issues can navigate the home safely. Open floor plans also provide clear sight lines, as well as ample light. They eliminate walls, which allows sound to travel more freely, which can be beneficial for those with hearing difficulties. It should be noted, however, that open floor plans can sometimes be cacophonous, which might be detrimental for people with certain types of hearing loss. What are some other home elements to consider?

Doorways should be expanded. At home entry points and inside the house, door frames need to be at least 32 inches wide, preferably 36 inches. This allows people to navigate safely, even when using a wheelchair or another mobility device.
Make doors easy to use. A no-step entry or ramp can make getting in and out of the house easier, and interior doors need low or flat thresholds as well. Rather than round doorknobs, use lever-style handles or open-shaped pulls, so that people with poor motor skills or hand strength can easily open doors.
Lighting is crucial. Natural light from large windows is beneficial, but when designing an accessible home, make sure to include ample lighting throughout the house, as well. Lighting areas that can be hazardous is particularly important, so make sure lights are appropriately placed near staircases and in bathrooms. Be careful that the lighting you choose is properly placed to avoid glare or extra shadow. Extra lighting under cabinets and in closets is helpful, and rocker light switches or motion sensors make it easier to navigate the home.
Lower work surfaces are helpful. Consider where eye level will be for the occupants of your home, and lower cabinets and countertops so that they can be reached easily and safely. Choose adjustable shelving and rods in your cabinets and closets, as well as drawers and roll-out shelving for large, heavy items.
Bathroom safety is vital. This is also one of the most straightforward rooms for achieving accessibility. Grab bars in the shower and by the toilet are required, and the toilet should be chair height. Showers should be stepless, to eliminate barriers, with a seat and a hand-held shower head to facilitate independent bathing. Walk-in bathtubs are also an option, and of course all floors should be non-slip.

Let Landmark Fine Homes Help You Build Your Forever Home

When you are ready to talk to a builder about creating the perfect home to meet your needs, we are ready to help. Landmark Fine Homes has beautiful new and custom-built homes in a variety of sizes and floorplans, just waiting to become yours. Our homes are energy efficient and built with the utmost attention to detail, located in active adult communities where you’ll find plenty to do. Make your next house the home of your dreams by contacting Landmark Fine Homes today!

The effect of light fixtures on a home is undeniable. The way we light our homes informs our mood, lights our activities, and creates the home ambiance experienced by our family and friends. More than just utilitarian, light has the power to change the way your home looks and feels. If you are in the process of designing a new home, it is important to consider your options carefully when it comes to the selection and placement of lighting.

Different Lights for Different Moods

What is the purpose of the lighting in any given room? It is to illuminate the space, certainly, but lighting does more than that. Think about the ambiance you want to achieve when choosing your lighting.

For a romantic mood, use warm lighting. Overhead lights and table lamps with dimmer switches and warm, white bulbs can make a space feel intimate.
To make a room feel inviting, layer your lighting. Floor lamps and sconces can add dimension, creating warm spaces of light around the room.
If you want to feel energized, use cool bulbs. Cool white bulbs are perfect for overhead and task lighting in workspaces and kitchens.

Different Types of Lighting

It can be helpful to identify the different types of lighting, to determine what you need in which area.

Task lighting is used to direct light onto a specific area. This enables you to do detailed work, as you might in a home office or a kitchen. Examples of task lighting include pendant lights over a kitchen counter, under-cabinet lights in a food preparation area, or a lamp on the desk in a home office.
Ambient lighting illuminates the entire space. Overhead lights, recessed fixtures, and floor lamps are examples of this, and you can use warm or cool bulbs, depending on the mood you are trying to achieve.
Accent lighting highlights a focal point. This could be track lighting around artwork, or a light that shines on an architectural feature.

How to Place Your Lights

Positioning your lights correctly can make a world of difference. While you are designing your décor scheme, consider these tips when placing your lights.

Layer lighting to create ambiance. When you use different types of lighting in one room, you can establish different moods and allow the lights to complement each other.
Distribute light sources uniformly. This eliminates dark corners and harsh shadows, as well as preventing eye strain.
Consider scale. Keep the light fixtures properly aligned with the dimensions of your room.
Make use of dimmers. When you use dimmers, you give yourself flexibility and the option to change the ambiance whenever you want to change the mood.

Choose Your Perfect Design with Landmark Fine Homes

Landmark Fine Homes has beautiful new and custom-built homes in a variety of sizes and floorplans, just waiting to become yours. When you build your new home with us, you have access to our design studio, where you can choose the finishing touches for your home, with the guidance of our experienced design team. Our homes are energy efficient and built with the utmost attention to detail, located in active adult communities where you’ll find plenty to do. Make your next house the home of your dreams by contacting Landmark Fine Homes today!

When you have pets, they are more than just companion animals. They are members of your family, and so you naturally want your home to be as comfortable and welcoming for them as it is for all of your other family members. Creating a pet-friendly home environment, then, will be a top priority. What does this mean? It means ensuring that your home is not just a safe environment for your pets, but also an enriching place. How can you accomplish this?

Create a Pet-Friendly Home Environment at Your Home

Make it safe. First and foremost, your home should be a safe place for your pets to live. Pet-proofing is important, so inspect your home thoroughly to determine any hazards that could harm your pets. Small items that could be ingested, household plants that could be toxic, and cabinets or drawers that hold harmful substances should all be addressed. Secure your trash bins, so that curious pets cannot get into the trash, and make sure the plants in your garden are non-toxic.
Give pets their own areas. A place where your pet can go to feel secure is important, and it helps keep your home orderly. Set up a comfortable bed or crate in a quiet, low-traffic area for your pets to go when they need time to get away and rest. Food and water should be easily accessible, along with safe toys.
Make sure they have enough exercise. Pets need plenty of opportunities to engage in physical activity. Take your dog for walks or runs. Set up a cat tree or scratching post for your cat. Incorporate playtime into your daily routine, to provide your pet with mental stimulation as well as physical exercise.
Create a grooming station. Keep grooming tools like brushes, combs, nail clippers, and pet-friendly shampoos together, in a place where you can offer regular grooming. If you have the space, a pet-grooming sink in your mudroom or laundry room can be perfect for this. Establish good grooming habits for your pets early in their lives, and inspect them for signs of parasites, skin issues, or other health problems as you groom them.
Provide comfortable places to rest. Aside from their dedicated “getaway” space, pets should have comfortable resting spots throughout your home. Pets generally want to be near their owners, and having blankets, soft beds, and cozy nooks in various quiet parts of the house will facilitate this.
Keep your home environment clean. Vacuum and sweep regularly to remove pet hair and dander from the house. This will improve your indoor air quality and reduce allergens. Make sure that your cleaning products are pet-safe, and read labels to make sure nothing you’re using is harmful to pets. Pay attention to the areas where your pets sleep and eat, taking care to keep them clean and hygienic.

Home Builders and Pet-Friendly Design

Increasingly, home builders are recognizing the importance of accommodating people’s pets as members of their families. Homes are being designed with that in mind, providing creative solutions to the needs of families and their furry companions. From pet bathing sinks in mudrooms to built-in crates in living areas to spaces to accommodate pet food dishes and supplies in the kitchen, there are nearly endless possibilities for pet-friendly building. Additionally, builders who use sustainable materials in their construction processes and safe materials inside the houses can create non-toxic environments for every member of the family, including pets.

Come to Landmark Homes for the Right Home for Your Whole Family

Creating a Workout Space in a Home

In our post-pandemic world, people are increasingly taking to the idea of a home gym. For some people, it may have started with workouts at home while the fitness centers were closed, but it has turned into something bigger than that. It makes sense, because having a workout space at home has many benefits. It provides a way for you to keep up with your fitness goals without ever leaving the house.

Benefits of a Home Gym

The most obvious benefit of having a home gym is the convenience of being able to work out from the comfort of your home. This means you don’t have to brave bad weather or share machines to get some exercise. But while skipping the commute and having your own equipment is a big draw, there are many other benefits, as well.

You get to make the rules. Gyms have set hours, dress codes, and control of the thermostat. When you work out at home, you can do it at any time, in whatever clothes make you most comfortable. You can watch your favorite show, blast your favorite music, and have control over the environment in which you do your workouts.
At your home gym, you have privacy. Many people feel anxious about going to the gym. They’re nervous that people will judge them for their weight, for not being athletic enough, for looking awkward, or for using equipment incorrectly. There is also the problem of having to undress and shower in an unfamiliar environment. When you are at home, you can exercise however you want, with no judgement from others, and you can shower alone.
In your home fitness space, you can make exercising a family affair. Your whole family needs exercise, so why not make it easier for them? It can be hard to find the time to exercise, but when the gym is in your house, you can encourage your family to get the exercise they should.
You don’t need childcare to work out at home. For those family members too little to work out, there may not be a lot of good options when you are at the gym. Some fitness centers offer childcare, but this is not always the best place to leave your little one. What’s more, if you have children who are too old for the gym nursery but not yet old enough to stay home alone, finding a place for them can become complicated.

Home Gym Design

One benefit we haven’t discussed yet is that when you have your own gym, you get to design it in any way you choose. You can choose the machines in the fitness space, and you can get more than one of something if you want to work out with a friend or family member. Your home gym can be anything you want it to be, and you can be confident that it is clean and safe. And while a home gym might initially be expensive, you will find that it is cost-effective in the long run. You will no longer need to pay for a gym membership, you will reduce your carbon footprint by not driving to the gym, and you will be making an investment in your health and overall wellbeing.

Let Landmark Fine Homes Help You Find Space to Incorporate Fitness Design

If you are looking for floorplans large enough to accommodate your home gym, you have come to the right place. Landmark Fine Homes has beautiful new and custom-built homes in a variety of sizes and floorplans, just waiting to become yours. Our homes are energy efficient and built with the utmost attention to detail, located in active adult communities where you’ll find plenty to do. Make your next house the home of your dreams by contacting Landmark Fine Homes today!

Building a home involves countless decisions, including choosing the right roof style. The material affects your roof’s durability, efficiency, appearance, and more. Compare various roofing materials and learn how to make the best choice for your home.

Exploring Roofing Materials

Here are some of the most popular roofing options in the Oklahoma City metro area:

Asphalt shingles are versatile and budget-friendly. They come in a variety of colors and styles to match different exteriors.
Metal roofing is known for its durability and energy efficiency, with a lifespan of up to 70 years. It comes in styles like standing seam and shingles for a sleek, modern look.
Wood shingles or shakes, often made from cedar, redwood, or pine, provide a rustic charm that other roof styles can’t match. However, they require regular maintenance to prevent mold, pest, and insect damage.
Slate tiles are made of natural stone and offer an elegant appearance. Keep in mind that their weight makes them harder to install and may require additional structural support.
Clay or concrete tiles are durable against fire, rot, and pests but can be brittle and prone to cracking in hail or extreme temperature changes.

Tips for Choosing a Roof Style

Every material has pros and cons, so weigh the following factors to guide your decision:

Exterior architecture: Your roof should complement the rest of your home. For instance, the Mediterranean style pairs well with clay tiles, while a rustic farmhouse looks great with a metal roof. If you’re going for a traditional suburban look, you can’t go wrong with classic asphalt shingles.
Oklahoma’s weather: Hot summers, high tornado risk, and the occasional hailstorm mean you should prioritize durability. Impact-resistant asphalt shingles and metal roofing have the best reputations for withstanding storms.
Budget constraints: Roofing materials vary greatly in price. Asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective, while premium slate and clay tiles are more expensive.
Energy efficiency: Some roofing materials offer better insulation or reflect solar heat more effectively to reduce energy costs. Look for lighter-colored options or shingles specifically designed to be reflective for a cooler home during Oklahoma’s hot summers.
Longevity and maintenance: Consider how long you want your roof to last and how much maintenance you’re willing to perform. Wood shingles have the shortest lifespan and require the most upkeep, but the effort could be worth it if you love the rustic appearance.

Why Choose Landmark Fine Homes?

At Landmark Fine Homes, we’ve been building great homes for great people for over 25 years. Our Certified Green Professional designation means we construct highly energy-efficient houses that cost less to keep comfortable. Our in-house design studio makes it easy to plan the architectural design for your roof and finalize other materials, fixtures, and finishes with professional guidance. Whether you go fully custom, buy a pre-built home, or build on your own lot, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to find your next home in the Oklahoma City metro area.

Do you need an ideal place for your family’s muddy boots, wet umbrellas, and heavy backpacks? That’s where a mudroom comes in. This space is designed to keep everyday clutter contained so your home stays clean and organized. Whether you have kids and pets or simply love the idea of a well-ordered entryway, learn how to design a functional mudroom to simplify your life.

What Exactly Is a Mudroom?

A mudroom is typically located at the back, side, or garage entrance to your home. It’s where the family ditches their outerwear before stepping into the main living space. Proper mudroom design prevents this from being a mere dumping ground, adding style, organization, and resale value to your home.

Entryway Solutions for Your Mudroom

A good mudroom creates a space that works for your household’s daily routine. Here’s what to consider when designing your mudroom:

Settle on an organization method: Think about what will work best for your family. You might want a designated spot for backpacks, another for shoes, and yet another for sports equipment. Alternatively, you can incorporate individual cubbies or lockers to separate personal items. In this setup, each person has one or more shelves, hooks, and drawers to stash their stuff, making things easier to find.
Choose durable, easy-to-clean materials: Mudrooms take a beating, so the flooring should be moisture-resistant and easy to wipe down. Tile, vinyl, and sealed concrete are all excellent options. Walls also need protection from scuffs and mud. A washable paint finish or wainscoting keeps things looking fresh.
Incorporate seating and shoe storage: A functional mudroom should make it easy to sit down and remove your shoes. A built-in bench with storage underneath offers the perfect solution.
Install hooks and hanging storage: Sturdy hooks at varying heights make it easy for family members to hang up coats, backpacks, purses, and hats as they come through the door.
Make it pet-friendly: For pet owners, the mudroom is the perfect spot to store leashes, food, and grooming supplies. If space allows, a small pet washing station is ideal for cleaning muddy paws.
Combine your laundry room and mudroom: Since both areas deal with wet or dirty clothes and daily messes, merging these rooms into one highly functional space makes sense. A dedicated laundry area with a washer, dryer, and folding station keeps clothes organized, while built-in cubbies, hooks, and seating provide a clear entryway solution for your mudroom.

Create a Thoughtfully Designed Mudroom in Your Dream Home

If you’re looking to build a house in the Oklahoma City metro area, Landmark Fine Homes would be honored to facilitate your journey. We are an award-winning company with over 25 years of experience building quality homes that fit our clients’ lifestyles. Our design studio lets you personalize every detail, ensuring your mudroom (and the rest of your house) exceeds your expectations. Contact us today for help finding your next home.

Natural ventilation is the secret to a fresh, comfortable home. It improves indoor air quality, reduces reliance on mechanical systems, and lowers energy bills. Explore the ins and outs of natural ventilation in home design and how to make the most of it.

Elements of Natural Ventilation

Natural ventilation moves air through a home using wind and temperature differences—no mechanical fans or air conditioning required. Primary strategies include:

Cross ventilation: Multiple open windows encourage airflow.
Stack ventilation: Warm air rises in a process known as the stack effect. This is most apparent in multi-story homes or those with cathedral ceilings.
Thermal mass: Materials like stone, concrete, and brick absorb heat during the day and release it at night, regulating the indoor temperatures naturally.

Design Choices for Comfort and Efficiency

Thoughtful design enhances natural ventilation. Some effective choices include:

Window placement: Locating windows in line with prevailing winds increases airflow. Larger openings on the windward side and smaller openings on the leeward side create a pressure difference that promotes circulation.
Open floor plan: Fewer walls make it easier for air to move freely, preventing stagnant, stuffy areas. Sliding or louvered doors are a great solution for improving ventilation while maintaining privacy.
High ceilings and clerestory windows: Rooms with taller ceilings have better air movement. Installing clerestory windows or operable skylights gives hot air a place to escape while cooler air enters from lower openings.
Shading and landscaping: Trees, awnings, and roof overhangs reduce heat gain by shading windows and walls. Outdoor water elements and courtyards also cool incoming air.

Considerations

Opening your windows and doors isn’t always beneficial. Consider these factors when designing a naturally ventilated home:

Humidity levels: Opening the windows on a rainy or humid day leads to mold growth and clammy skin. Balance natural ventilation with dehumidification to prevent moisture buildup.
Outdoor pollutants: Homes near busy roads, industrial areas, or agricultural zones may need to rely more on mechanical ventilation. Even in natural areas, high pollen counts may negatively impact indoor air quality.
Outdoor temperatures: Natural ventilation is most effective during mild weather. Supplemental heating and cooling is the best way to stay comfortable in hot or cold conditions.

Supplementing Natural Ventilation

When high humidity, poor air quality, or extreme temperatures prevent you from ventilating your home naturally, it’s time to switch to mechanical ventilation. Common systems include:

Exhaust fans: Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms should all be outfitted with exhaust fans that remove excess moisture, odors, and pollutants.
Whole-house ventilation systems: A balanced ventilation system keeps fresh air circulating, even when windows stay closed.
Whole-house fans: Open windows and run a whole-house fan on summer nights to pull in cool outdoor air. In the morning, trap this air inside to reduce the need for air conditioning.

Experience the Landmark Difference

Landmark Fine Homes builds houses to be comfortable, efficient, and long-lasting. Natural ventilation for home design is just one of many elements we consider when crafting energy-efficient spaces that feel as good as they look. Whether you’re building a custom home in the Oklahoma City metro area, purchasing a move-in-ready option, or bringing your dream home to life on your own lot, we’re here to help. Contact us today to make your next house the home of your dreams!

Building a home that caters to every family member’s needs requires thoughtful planning and smart choices. The most family-friendly designs foster togetherness while also allowing personal space. Above all else, a family-friendly home ensures safety for all. Here are seven tips for designing a safe, functional, and welcoming home in the Oklahoma City metro area.

Include open spaces for togetherness: An open floor plan encourages family interactions. Merging the kitchen, dining, and living areas into an undivided great room creates a communal space where family members can cook, eat, and relax together. This layout encourages communication and makes it easier to supervise children while attending to household tasks.
Offer private retreats: While togetherness is essential, having quiet, distraction-free spaces is equally important. Make sure your family-friendly home has sufficient room to escape the noise. This balance between communal and private areas ensures everyone has a place to focus on work, homework, or personal activities.
Use durable, stylish materials: Choosing kid- and pet-friendly materials that withstand daily wear and tear is crucial in a family home. Opt for leather or linen-blend upholstery, furniture with rounded edges, and washable slipcovers to maintain a chic yet practical living space.
Provide ample storage: Clutter can quickly accumulate in a busy household. Savvy storage solutions keep your home organized and safe. Consider built-in cabinets and bookshelves, under-stair storage, and multi-functional furniture to maximize space.
Put safety first: Safety features of a home with kids include soft-close cabinets, cordless window blinds, and temperature-controlled faucets. Pets need a safe and comfortable environment, too, so keep toxic plants, small objects, and electrical cords out of reach. For aging family members, install bathroom grab bars, non-slip flooring, and adequate lighting to improve accessibility and prevent falls.
Think about the future: As your family grows and changes, so do your needs. Design flexible spaces that can adapt over time to ensure your home remains functional. For instance, a playroom for young children can transform into a study area as they grow older. Also, a guest bedroom and bathroom may be a suitable in-law suite if aging parents ever move in.
Plan outdoor areas strategically: The backyard is important for many families, as it offers additional space for activities and relaxation. Create a safe, inviting backyard that encourages children and pets to play and allows adults to relax. Features like a privacy fence, deck or patio, outdoor kitchen, and grassy lawn extend your living area outdoors.

Landmark Fine Homes builds great homes for great people. With over 25 years of experience serving the Oklahoma City metro area, we understand the importance of a home that grows with your family. Our design studio allows you to customize every detail to fit your needs without compromise. Whether you’re looking to build on your own lot or live in one of our curated communities, we would be thrilled to make your dream home a reality. Contact us today to start creating your family-friendly home.