10 Essential Features to Include in Your Custom Home Design

Jul 25, 2023

If you're reading this, you're probably dreaming about your perfect home. You know, the one with the spacious kitchen, the cozy fireplace, and the master suite that feels like a five-star hotel. 

With over 60 years of experience building luxury homes in the Chicago suburbs, we've identified some essential features that should be included in every custom home design. 

Here are the top 10 home features you'll never regret investing in:

Two Story Entry

If you're looking to make an impressive first impression, a two-story entryway leading into the family room is the way to go. 

A double-height foyer with a grand staircase creates a breathtaking entrance that can be seen from all angles of the home. This feature allows light to flow freely through your home while also making it look much larger.

Our Americana offers just this sort of spacious and welcoming atmosphere. Plus it features:

  • 4 oversized bedrooms
  • 4 baths
  • A private study
  • A loft
  • A huge kitchen with a walk-in pantry and tons of storage

For those who want to make a grand statement, this is the perfect floor plan!

Open Floor Plan

Even the smallest home can look and feel more spacious when an open floor plan is at play. An open-concept design leaves no room for closed-off areas but instead allows each space to flow seamlessly into the next. 

The Wellington stands out as one of our most sought-after models. The two-story family room and foyer gracefully flow into the dinette and kitchen, optimizing every inch of the abundant 3,106 square footage. 

Gourmet Kitchen

Every home needs a heart, and that's usually the kitchen. The best kitchens are designed with functionality and style in mind, often featuring:

  • Oversized islands
  • Granite countertops
  • Stainless steel appliances
  • Custom cabinets 
  • Ample storage space

Entertaining is another key component in the modern kitchen and the Castleby is a perfect example of this. The gourmet kitchen is adjacent to the expansive two-story family room, creating a perfect flow for parties and gatherings. 

Architectural Detail

The term "cookie-cutter" has no place in luxury home design. Architectural details are what set one house apart from another, and investing in the right touches can make all the difference. 

The Carlisle is a masterpiece of architectural detail, boasting exquisite art niches, captivating look-throughs, and elegant columns that add a touch of grandeur.

One Level Living

Did you know that sprawling single-story homes and first-floor owner's suites are becoming increasingly popular?

With one-level living, you can enjoy easy access throughout your home with minimal effort. 

Our Arlington floor plan is the epitome of one-level living at its best. This ranch home features:

  • An elegant brick exterior
  • Spacious three-car garage
  • 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms
  • A vaulted great room with a fireplace
  • A gourmet kitchen with island and a dedicated breakfast area

At almost 3,000 square feet, this is a one-story floor plan that will never leave you feeling cramped or confined!

Personalized Exterior

When you drive down your street you want your home to stand out from the crowd. That's why eye-catching elevations that have stone, brick, and wood exterior options are a must!

At Overstreet Builders, we understand that the exterior of your home is just as important as the interior. That's why we offer a variety of exterior elevations to choose from and we offer a phenomenal design team who can help you to create a one-of-a-kind home that looks just the way you imagined. 

Flooring

Flooring takes a lot of abuse, so you want it to be durable and timeless. But it also takes up a lot of real estate, so you want it to look good too. 

A well-built custom home will feature flooring that complements the overall aesthetic of your home while also standing up to wear and tear over time. 

Whether you prefer the warmth of wood, the coolness of tile, or the comfort of carpet, just make sure you invest in quality flooring that will last

Cozy Fireplace

Whether the whole family is gathering on a cold Chicago night, or you're snuggling up with your partner for a romantic evening, there's nothing quite like a crackling fire in the background.

Our Bordeaux is a floor plan with this must-have feature. The first floor includes a two-story family room with a fireplace, creating an inviting atmosphere and adding charm to your home.

Private Study

With so many people working from home these days, we couldn't miss an opportunity to mention a private study. If you need a quiet place to take important phone calls, or a designated area for your home office, having a separate space is essential. 

In addition to 4 bedrooms, the Windsor model includes a private study, tucked away from the living spaces of the home, that's perfect for focusing on work or personal projects. 

Spa Bathroom

Whether you're taking a long, relaxing bath or getting ready for the day ahead, having a beautiful and well-designed space to do it in is on the top of most buyers’ lists. 

Our beautiful Kensington model, showcased in the 2022 Cavalcade of Homes, offers a spa-like bathroom experience that will make you feel like absolute royalty!

Investing in a custom home is all about making sure you get the details just right. With these features, you can create a stunning home that's both luxurious and comfortable! Contact the Overstreet team today to get started.