1. Orient Rooms Based on Sun Path, Privacy, and Views

   • Position the main living area facing the southwest to enjoy sunsets after work.

   • Place the kitchen on the east side to benefit from morning sunlight.

   • Design bedrooms in the most private area of the lot, away from the main living space, to enhance privacy and minimize noise.

2. Adopt an Open Floor Plan

   • Combine the living room and kitchen into one seamless space to create a more spacious and light-filled area.

   • Keep the kitchen partially open to the living room to maintain a connection while concealing clutter from direct view.

3. Plan an Efficient Kitchen Layout

   • Design the kitchen for optimal workflow by creating a “work triangle” connecting the refrigerator, sink, and range.

   • Follow the food preparation sequence: retrieve from the fridge, wash at the sink, prep, cook, and serve.

4. High Ceilings with Clerestory Windows in the Living Room

   • Elevate the main living area with higher ceilings to increase spaciousness.

   • Add clerestory windows to bring in natural light and sky views. Use 10′ ceilings for other rooms.

5. Minimize Indoor Air Pollution from the Garage

   • Add a well-ventilated mudroom as a buffer between the garage and living areas.

   • Seal the garage-to-house wall and install exhaust fans in both the garage and mudroom to reduce CO concentrations.

6. Include a Separate Garage Storage Room

   • Provide dedicated storage space in the garage to eliminate the need for external storage units.

   • A 10′x10′ garage storage area pays for itself in about 6.5 years compared to renting a storage unit.

7. Locate Laundry Near Bedrooms

   • Place the laundry room near the master closet or in an easily accessible location for all bedrooms.

   • For two-story homes, ensure the washer and dryer are on the same floor as the bedrooms.

8. Maximize Natural Light and Ventilation

   • Ensure window glazing equals at least 20% of a room’s floor area to improve daylighting and reduce energy costs.

   • Provide natural ventilation openings equal to 5% of the floor area to prevent mold and improve air quality.

9. Build a Covered Porch on the Side

   • Add a side porch or deck to encourage outdoor activities while keeping living room windows unshaded for optimal natural light.

   • Enhance the space with trees and flowers for a calming connection to nature.

These strategies combine functionality, aesthetics, and energy efficiency to create a comfortable and practical home environment.