Expert Tips and Inspiring Ideas for Creating the Ultimate Ranch House Design

Embarking on the journey of crafting the ultimate country abode involves a delicate blend of expertise and imagination. A harmonious balance of architectural finesse, aesthetic appeal, and functionality is essential to fashion a residence that encapsulates the spirit of rural living. This article delves into the art of designing a remarkable country residence, offering invaluable insights and captivating concepts to transform your vision into reality.

Unveiling the secrets of master craftsmanship

Designing an exceptional country dwelling necessitates the mastery of architectural principles and an acute understanding of the idiosyncrasies that define rural landscapes. Our experts will guide you through the intricacies of capturing the charm and character of a ranch-style home while infusing it with personalized touches. From structural elements to intricate details, we will unveil the secrets of crafting a residence that effortlessly merges with its idyllic surroundings.

Striking a chord between timeless elegance and contemporary flair

Achieving the perfect fusion between timeless elegance and contemporary flair is paramount when envisioning a country residence that stands the test of time. Our insightful tips will help you navigate through the myriad of design possibilities, enabling you to assimilate classic influences and modern design trends harmoniously. Whether your heart resonates with traditional craftsmanship or yearns for a touch of urban sophistication, we have the inspiration to propel your dream residence towards unmatched beauty.

Incorporating Nature into Ranch House Design

Embracing the natural world and seamlessly blending it with the architecture of a ranch house can create a harmonious and captivating living environment. This section explores innovative ways to bring nature indoors and connect the outdoor surroundings with the interior design. By seamlessly blending materials, colors, and design elements inspired by nature, homeowners can create a serene and inviting atmosphere that truly embraces the essence of ranch living.

One way to incorporate nature into ranch house design is by utilizing natural materials throughout the home. From exposed wood beams and stone accents to earthy textures, these elements bring a touch of the outdoors inside, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The use of sustainable materials, such as reclaimed wood or bamboo flooring, not only adds a natural aesthetic but also promotes eco-friendly practices.

In addition to incorporating natural materials, incorporating large windows and open floor plans can provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. This allows for ample natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The strategic placement of windows also invites gentle breezes and the sounds of nature, further enhancing the connection to the outdoors.

Another way to incorporate nature into ranch house design is through the use of natural color palettes. Earth tones, such as warm browns, soft greens, and sandy neutrals, evoke a sense of tranquility and mimic the natural surroundings. These colors can be applied to walls, furniture, and decor, creating a cohesive and calming environment that complements the ranch-style architecture.

Furthermore, integrating indoor greenery and plant life into the design can bring a refreshing burst of nature into a ranch house. Whether it’s potted plants, hanging terrariums, or even a living wall, these natural elements add vitality and freshness to the interior space. The presence of greenery not only improves air quality but also nurtures a connection to nature, bringing the beauty of the outdoors inside.

Incorporating nature into ranch house design allows homeowners to create a sanctuary that harmoniously blends with its surroundings. By embracing natural materials, maximizing natural light and views, utilizing natural color palettes, and integrating indoor greenery, individuals can truly establish a ranch house that celebrates the beauty and serenity of its natural setting.

Embracing the Rustic Charm

Incorporating the authentic allure of the countryside into your ranch house design is a captivating way to infuse rustic charm and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. By embracing the rustic aesthetics, you can evoke a sense of timelessness and connection to nature.

Embracing the rustic charm doesn’t necessarily mean sticking to traditional design elements; instead, it’s about capturing the essence of rustic living and incorporating it into every aspect of your ranch house. From the choice of materials to the color palette and furniture selection, every decision can contribute to the overall rustic vibe.

One way to infuse the rustic charm into your ranch house is through the use of natural materials such as reclaimed wood, stone, and exposed brick. These materials not only add visual interest but also bring a sense of warmth and organic beauty to the space.

To further enhance the rustic ambiance, consider incorporating vintage or antique elements, such as weathered furniture, distressed finishes, and vintage accessories. These unique pieces add character and tell a story, enriching the overall charm of your ranch house.

Color plays a crucial role in embracing the rustic aesthetic. Opt for earthy tones and muted hues that reflect the natural landscape, such as warm browns, deep greens, and soft neutrals. These colors create a soothing and harmonious environment, evoking a sense of calmness and serenity.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures to intensify the rustic charm. Mixing rough and smooth surfaces, incorporating textiles like burlap or linen, and adding elements like woven baskets or handcrafted ceramics can add depth and visual interest to your ranch house design.

In conclusion, embracing the rustic charm in your ranch house design allows you to create a space that exudes warmth, authenticity, and a connection to nature. By incorporating natural materials, vintage elements, earthy tones, and various textures, you can achieve a harmonious balance that showcases the rustic allure of your home.

Highlighting Natural Materials

Incorporating natural materials into the design of a ranch house can bring a sense of authenticity and connection to the surrounding environment. By utilizing elements that mirror the beauty and texture found in nature, homeowners can create a warm and inviting space that seamlessly blends with its surroundings.

Emphasizing organic textures and colors

One way to highlight natural materials is to emphasize their organic textures and colors. Whether it’s using rich wooden beams, stone accents, or earth-toned tiles, these elements add depth and character to the overall design. It’s important to choose materials that evoke a sense of nature, such as rough-hewn wood or unpolished stone, as they create a timeless and rustic atmosphere.

Integrating sustainable and eco-friendly materials

An essential aspect of highlighting natural materials is considering sustainability and eco-friendliness. Incorporating materials that are locally sourced and renewable, such as bamboo flooring or recycled glass countertops, not only reduces the environmental impact but also adds a unique touch to the design. Additionally, utilizing energy-efficient windows and insulation can improve the overall efficiency of the house while maintaining its natural aesthetic.

Creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection

Another way to emphasize natural materials is by creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Incorporating large windows, skylights, or glass sliding doors allows for an unobstructed view of the natural surroundings, blurring the boundaries between the interior and exterior spaces. Connecting living areas with outdoor patios or decks made from natural materials like wood or stone can further enhance this connection and provide a relaxing space to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Introducing natural accents and decor

In addition to using natural materials in structural elements, incorporating natural accents and decor can further enhance the overall design. Utilizing indoor plants, nature-inspired artwork, or organic textiles can add a touch of freshness and life to the space. Items crafted from reclaimed wood or repurposed materials can also act as unique focal points, showcasing the beauty and versatility of natural resources.

Highlighting natural materials in the design of a ranch house creates a harmonious and timeless aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of the surrounding environment. By utilizing organic textures, sustainable materials, and emphasizing the indoor-outdoor connection, homeowners can achieve a space that not only showcases their love for nature but also provides a serene and inviting retreat.

Maximizing Natural Light

Enhancing the entry of sunlight can greatly transform the ambience and aesthetics of your ranch retreat. By strategically incorporating various design elements and utilizing creative techniques, you can infuse your home with an abundance of natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

One effective way to maximize natural light is through the use of large windows and glass doors. These architectural elements not only allow ample sunlight to enter your home but also provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Consider installing expansive floor-to-ceiling windows or sliding glass doors that open up to your outdoor living spaces, creating a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors.

In addition to windows and doors, skylights can be a fantastic option for introducing natural light into interior spaces that may have limited access to external walls. Placing a skylight in strategic locations, such as above staircases, in hallways, or in bathrooms, can instantly brighten up these areas and create a sense of openness.

Another way to maximize natural light is by utilizing lighter colors and reflective surfaces in your interior design. Opt for light-colored walls, ceilings, and flooring as they can enhance the reflection of natural light, making your home feel more spacious and airy. Incorporating mirrors or other reflective objects can also help bounce light around the room, further enhancing the brightness and overall illumination.

Furthermore, consider the placement of furniture and the arrangement of your rooms to allow for unobstructed sunlight. Avoid placing large or heavy furniture in front of windows or blocking potential light sources. Instead, arrange your furniture to take advantage of natural light, emphasizing the welcoming glow and creating cozy corners bathed in sunshine.

In conclusion, maximizing natural light in your ranch house is an essential aspect of creating a comfortable and inviting space. By incorporating large windows, glass doors, skylights, utilizing lighter colors, and thoughtfully arranging your furniture, you can harness the power of sunlight to transform your ranch into a blissful haven filled with warmth and natural beauty.

Creating a Functional and Open Layout

In this section, we will explore the art of constructing a practical and spacious layout for your ranch house. By focusing on optimizing the functionality and promoting an open environment, we can ensure that every square foot of your home serves a purpose and maximizes the overall flow of the space.

When designing your ranch house, it is essential to prioritize space utilization and efficiency. The layout should be carefully planned to accommodate the various activities and needs of your household, while also facilitating easy movement between different areas. By incorporating smart storage solutions, flexible furniture arrangements, and multipurpose rooms, you can ensure that every inch of your home contributes to the functionality and organization.

Achieving an open layout is another crucial aspect of creating a functional ranch house. An open floor plan not only enhances the visual appeal and spaciousness of the interior but also fosters connectivity and interaction among the occupants. By minimizing unnecessary walls and barriers, you can create seamless transitions between different areas, such as the kitchen, dining room, and living space, allowing for effortless communication and shared experiences.

Strategic placement of windows and the use of natural light are key components in creating an open and inviting atmosphere. By maximizing the amount of natural light that enters your home, you can create a sense of airiness and eliminate any feelings of confinement. Additionally, utilizing architectural features, such as vaulted ceilings or skylights, can further enhance the openness of your ranch house, making it a visually stunning and comfortable space to live in.

Remember, the ultimate goal of designing a functional and open layout for your ranch house is to strike a balance between practicality and aesthetics. By considering the needs of your household and incorporating design elements that promote efficient use of space and encourage connectivity, you can create a truly harmonious living environment that reflects your unique style and meets your family’s daily requirements.

Open Concept Living Spaces

Experience the ultimate in modern living with open concept living spaces. Embrace the seamless flow and integration, where walls are replaced with stylish yet functional design elements. Discover the freedom and versatility that open concept living offers, as it transforms your ranch house into a dynamic and inviting environment for both relaxation and entertainment.

Open concept living spaces provide a harmonious balance between various functional areas of your home. By removing the traditional barriers of walls and doors, these spaces create a sense of unity and connectivity. Whether it’s the integration of the kitchen, dining area, and living room, or the seamless transition from indoor to outdoor spaces, open concept designs enhance the overall functionality and livability of your ranch house.

One of the key advantages of open concept living is the opportunity to maximize natural light throughout your home. With fewer walls, natural light can easily flow from one space to another, creating a bright and airy ambiance. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the overall well-being of the residents, promoting a sense of positivity and comfort.

Furthermore, open concept living spaces allow for increased social interaction and connection with family members and guests. The removal of physical barriers encourages conversations to flow effortlessly, ensuring that no one feels isolated while performing various activities. This not only fosters a sense of togetherness but also enhances the overall enjoyment of shared experiences and gatherings.

When it comes to designing your open concept living space, consider incorporating stylish yet functional elements to delineate different areas. This can be achieved through the strategic placement of furniture, the use of different flooring materials, or the creative use of architectural features. By doing so, you can maintain a sense of visual separation while preserving the open and cohesive feel of the space.

In conclusion, open concept living spaces offer a modern and inviting solution for your ranch house. Embrace the freedom, connectivity, and natural light that these designs provide to create a harmonious and functional environment for you and your loved ones.

Efficient Use of Space

The art of optimizing space is a fundamental aspect of creating a ranch house that is both functional and visually appealing.

To make the most of the available area, it is important to carefully consider the layout and arrangement of each room. By strategically placing furniture, utilizing built-in storage solutions, and incorporating versatile pieces, you can optimize the functionality of every corner.

Maximizing storage options is essential in achieving an efficient use of space. Innovative solutions such as hidden cabinets, under-the-bed storage, and multipurpose furniture can help minimize clutter and make the most of limited square footage.

Additionally, incorporating open floor plans and flexible room designs can create a sense of spaciousness even within smaller dimensions. This allows for seamless transitions between different areas and maximizes the usability of the overall space.

Moreover, incorporating natural light through well-placed windows and skylights can create an illusion of space and enhance the overall ambiance of the ranch house. By bringing the outdoors in, you can make the interior feel more expansive and open.

Efficient use of space is not just about physical arrangements, but also about making deliberate design choices. Utilizing elements such as mirrors, light colors, and minimalistic decor can visually enhance the space and create an airy atmosphere.

In conclusion, when designing a ranch house, emphasis should be placed on efficient use of space. By carefully considering layout, storage solutions, flexibility, natural light, and design choices, it is possible to create a functional and visually appealing home that maximizes every inch available.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow

Creating a harmonious connection between the interior and exterior spaces is a key element when designing a ranch house. The concept of seamless indoor-outdoor flow focuses on the uninterrupted transition between the inside and outside, blurring the boundaries and bringing nature closer to the living spaces.

One way to achieve a seamless indoor-outdoor flow is by incorporating large windows and glass doors that allow ample natural light to flood the interior while providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. These expansive openings not only visually connect the indoors with the outdoors but also invite fresh air and ventilation into the living spaces.

In addition to maximizing natural light and views, carefully selecting the right materials can also contribute to a seamless flow. Opting for flooring materials that extend from the interior to the exterior, such as hardwood or stone, can create a sense of continuity and unity. Similarly, utilizing similar color palettes and finishes throughout both spaces can further enhance the flow and create a cohesive design.

Outdoor living areas, such as patios, decks, or verandas, play a crucial role in achieving a seamless connection. Thoughtfully designed and strategically positioned, these outdoor spaces become extensions of the interior and can be seamlessly integrated into the overall layout. Incorporating elements like outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, or seating areas further blurs the line between inside and outside and encourages a seamless transition.

Key Elements for Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow:

Large windows and glass doors

Maximizing natural light and views

Continuity in flooring materials

Consistency in color palettes and finishes

Strategically positioned outdoor living areas

Overall, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow in a ranch house encourages a seamless connection with nature, enhances the overall living experience, and allows homeowners to fully embrace the beauty of their surroundings.

Choosing the Right Color Palette

Opting for the perfect combination of hues can tremendously enhance the visual appeal and ambiance of your ranch house. Carefully selecting a harmonious color scheme sets the foundation for a well-designed living space that feels both inviting and aesthetically pleasing.

When it comes to choosing the right color palette, it is essential to consider the overall style and feel you wish to achieve. Are you aiming for a warm and cozy atmosphere or a cool and contemporary vibe? Each choice will dictate the colors that work best for your ranch house.

Neutral tones, like soft beige, warm taupe, or light gray, provide a versatile base for a variety of design styles. These colors create a calm and timeless backdrop that allows for furniture and accents to take center stage. Utilizing natural hues can also help to bring the outdoors in, especially if your ranch house is surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

If you prefer a more vibrant and energetic look, consider incorporating bold and saturated colors. Rich burgundies, deep teals, or fiery oranges can add personality and create a focal point in specific areas of your ranch house. However, it is crucial to balance these daring shades with more neutral or muted colors to ensure a visually balanced and harmonious space.

Another option to consider is the use of complementary colors. These are hues found opposite each other on the color wheel, such as blue and orange or yellow and purple. Combining complementary colors can create a striking visual impact and lend an element of excitement and contrast to your ranch house. Just be sure to use these vibrant combinations sparingly to avoid overwhelming the space.

Lastly, never underestimate the power of white. A crisp and clean white color palette can create a sense of lightness and purity, making your ranch house feel fresh and inviting. White walls, combined with natural wood tones and accents of greenery, can create a timeless and serene ambiance that is both modern and classic.

Ultimately, selecting the right color palette for your ranch house is a personal choice that should reflect your unique style and preferences. Whether you opt for soothing neutrals, bold and energetic hues, complementary combinations, or a clean white aesthetic, a well-chosen color scheme will elevate the overall design of your ranch house and create a space that you love coming home to.

Earthy Tones for a Cozy Feel

Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your ranch house is all about embracing earthy tones. With a wide range of shades inspired by nature, you can transform your space into a cozy retreat that exudes a sense of comfort and tranquility. From warm browns to soft greens and soothing neutrals, incorporating earthy tones in your design scheme will bring a touch of natural beauty and a homely feel to your ranch house.

One way to introduce earthy tones is through your choice of wall colors. Opting for warm shades of brown, such as caramel or chestnut, can instantly add a welcoming and cozy feel to any room. These earthy hues create a sense of grounding and stability, making them ideal for living areas or bedrooms. If you prefer a more subtle approach, consider painting your walls in soft greens like sage or olive. These calming tones evoke a connection to nature and can make a space feel harmonious and serene.

In addition to wall colors, incorporating earthy tones through furniture and decor accents can further enhance the cozy feel of your ranch house. Natural materials like wood and stone can create a rustic and inviting ambiance. Choose furniture pieces with warm wood finishes that showcase the natural grain and texture. Add soft textiles in earthy tones, such as cozy blankets or cushions in shades of terracotta or tan, to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

When it comes to flooring options, consider using earthy materials like hardwood or natural stone. These choices not only add elegance and durability to your space but also contribute to the cozy feel you’re aiming for. Rich wood flooring with warm undertones or natural stone tiles in earthy hues can instantly elevate the overall aesthetic of your ranch house while providing a comfortable and grounding foundation.

To tie everything together, incorporate earthy tones in your choice of accessories and artwork. Display nature-inspired paintings or photographs that highlight the beauty of the outdoors. Choose accent pieces in shades of rust or burnt sienna to add a pop of warmth. Additionally, incorporating indoor plants can bring a touch of greenery and a sense of serenity to your ranch house, enhancing the cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Key Points
– Embrace earthy tones to create a cozy feel in your ranch house.
– Choose warm shades of brown or soft greens for your walls.
– Incorporate wood, stone, and natural materials for furniture and decor.
– Opt for hardwood or natural stone flooring options.
– Display nature-inspired artwork and incorporate indoor plants.

Neutral Colors with Pops of Vibrant Accents

Embracing the power of understated elegance, the concept of using neutral colors with vibrant accents brings a sense of sophistication and playfulness to your ranch house design. By opting for a neutral color palette as the foundation, you create a versatile canvas that allows pops of vibrant accents to truly shine.

Neutral colors such as beige, cream, and taupe establish a timeless and calming atmosphere, providing a harmonious backdrop for your ranch house. They create a sense of warmth and tranquility, making a space feel inviting and cozy. Utilizing neutral colors in larger areas such as walls, floors, and furniture allows for more creative freedom with the introduction of vibrant accents.

• When incorporating vibrant accents, consider using colors such as fiery red, electric blue, or lush green to inject energy and visual interest into your space.
• One approach is to use vibrant accent colors in smaller elements such as throw pillows, artwork, or decorative accessories. This allows for easy experimentation and flexibility when it comes to changing or updating the look of your ranch house.
• Another option is to select a key furniture piece or focal point in a vibrant accent color, such as a bold statement chair or a vibrant area rug. This can create an eye-catching centerpiece and add a dash of personality to your overall design.

Contrasting the neutral background with pops of vibrant accents adds depth and character to your ranch house, while also creating visual balance. It is important to strike the right balance between the neutral and vibrant elements, as overwhelming the space with too many vibrant colors can result in a chaotic and cluttered look.

By carefully selecting and strategically placing vibrant accents throughout your ranch house, you can achieve a beautiful and harmonious design that reflects your personal style and creates an atmosphere that is both inviting and visually captivating.

Timeless White for a Classic Ranch Aesthetic

Embracing a timeless white color palette is a foolproof way to achieve a classic ranch aesthetic for your home. This versatile hue exudes elegance, simplicity, and a sense of nostalgia, making it an ideal choice for ranch-style houses that aim to capture a vintage charm.

White walls serve as a blank canvas, allowing homeowners to showcase their personal style through furniture, decor, and architectural features. Whether you opt for a clean and minimalistic approach or prefer to incorporate rustic elements, white provides a neutral backdrop that effortlessly complements any design direction.

When it comes to creating a classic ranch aesthetic, white doesn’t have to be limited to just walls. Consider incorporating white cabinetry in the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room to add a touch of timeless elegance. Pair it with vintage-inspired hardware, such as brass or iron handles, to complete the nostalgic feel.

Another way to infuse white into your ranch house is through furniture and upholstery. Opt for a white linen sofa, accent chairs, or dining chairs to create a crisp and inviting atmosphere. Layering white fabrics with various textures, such as a cozy cable-knit throw or embroidered cushions, adds depth and visual interest to the space.

To enhance the classic ranch aesthetic further, consider incorporating white accessories and decor pieces. Vintage white ceramics, such as pitchers, vases, and bowls, can be displayed on open shelving or mantels to add character and charm. White curtains or blinds can also be used to bring in natural light while maintaining privacy.

In addition to its timeless appeal, white also has the power to visually expand smaller spaces, making it an excellent choice for ranch houses with limited square footage. The light-reflecting properties of white help create an airy and spacious feel, enhancing the overall ambiance of your home.

Overall, embracing a timeless white color scheme is an excellent way to achieve a classic ranch aesthetic that will never go out of style. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refresh your current ranch house, incorporating white as a dominant hue will create a cohesive and visually appealing living space that stands the test of time.

Questions and answers

What are some key design elements to consider when designing a ranch house?

When designing a ranch house, there are several key design elements to consider. First, think about the layout and flow of the home, such as open floor plans that promote easy movement between rooms. Additionally, incorporate large windows to allow for plenty of natural light and to take advantage of the surrounding views. Lastly, prioritize outdoor living spaces, such as a spacious patio or deck, to embrace the ranch lifestyle.

What are some inspiring ideas for adding unique features to a ranch house?

There are numerous inspiring ideas for adding unique features to a ranch house. One idea is to incorporate rustic elements, such as exposed wooden beams or stone accents, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Another idea is to include a separate guest house or casita for visitors to enjoy their own space. Additionally, consider incorporating a large kitchen with modern appliances and ample storage for a contemporary touch.

How can one maximize the use of outdoor space in a ranch house?

To maximize the use of outdoor space in a ranch house, there are several strategies one can employ. First, consider adding a covered outdoor seating area with comfortable furniture, allowing for year-round enjoyment. Additionally, include a barbecue or outdoor kitchen space to make entertaining easier. Finally, consider incorporating landscaping features, such as a fire pit or a swimming pool, to enhance the overall ambiance and create a true oasis.

What are some tips for creating a cohesive design style throughout a ranch house?

To create a cohesive design style throughout a ranch house, it is important to establish a theme and stick to it. Consider using a neutral color palette as a base and then incorporate pops of color through accessories and artwork. Use similar materials and finishes throughout the house, such as wood or stone, to create a harmonious look. Lastly, pay attention to details and ensure that the furniture and decor complement each other in terms of style and proportions.

How can one add a touch of modernity to a traditional ranch house design?

To add a touch of modernity to a traditional ranch house design, consider incorporating sleek and contemporary finishes, such as stainless steel appliances or glass accents. Incorporate clean lines in the architectural design of the house and choose furniture pieces with a modern aesthetic. Additionally, consider adding technology features, such as smart home systems or energy-efficient fixtures, to bring the house into the 21st century.

What are some expert tips for designing the perfect ranch house?

Some expert tips for designing the perfect ranch house include creating an open floor plan to maximize space, incorporating natural materials such as wood and stone for a rustic feel, and utilizing large windows to bring in abundant natural light.

Are there any specific architectural styles that work well for ranch houses?

While there are no strict rules, architectural styles such as Craftsman, Mid-Century Modern, and Farmhouse tend to work well with ranch houses. These styles often complement the ranch house aesthetic with their simplistic yet stylish designs.

What are some inspiring ideas for ranch house design?

Some inspiring ideas for ranch house design include incorporating a wrap-around porch for a cozy and inviting outdoor space, adding a spacious mudroom for practicality, and incorporating a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams for a touch of rustic charm.

How can I make my ranch house feel more modern?

To make your ranch house feel more modern, you can consider adding sleek and contemporary furniture, opting for a minimalist color palette, integrating smart home technology, and incorporating energy-efficient fixtures and appliances.

What are the benefits of designing a ranch house?

Designing a ranch house offers several benefits such as a single-level layout, which provides convenience and accessibility, the ability to have a spacious and open floor plan, and the opportunity to connect with nature through large windows and outdoor living spaces.