The Hospice Foundation of the South’s signature event in Slidell.
Crawfish Cookoff
Fritchie Park
901 Howze Beach Road
Slidell, LA 70458
April 26, 2025
11am – 6pm
Tickets $35.00 in advance, $40 at gate.
Click Here for More Information!
A boat parade during Mardi Gras in Madisonville.
Marie’s Marina
Madisonville, LA 70447
February 22, 2025
1pm
They will be electing a new chairman in Ponchatoula.
Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival Board
Ponchatoula Memorial Park
351 N 6th St
Ponchatoula, LA 70454
April 11 – 13, 2025
5:30pm – 6:30pm
Click Here for More Information.
This event is put on by The Atrium Gallery in Covington.
Brushstrokes & Beyond Open Reception
100 Christwood Blvd
Covington, LA 70433
January 18, 2025
4:30pm – 6:30pm
Click Here for More Information.
Building a custom home is an exciting journey that begins with selecting the right floor plan. This crucial step sets the foundation for your home’s functionality, aesthetics, and overall design. If you’re unsure about how to navigate this process, follow these essential steps to find the perfect layout that suits your needs and lifestyle.
The first step in selecting a floor plan is determining the amount of space you need. Consider your current and future living situation—whether you’re starting a family, downsizing, or planning for multi-generational living. Decide on the number of floors, bedrooms, and bathrooms that will best accommodate your lifestyle.
Think about the essential features you want in your home, such as a home office, a formal dining area, a playroom, or a finished basement. Do you prioritize an expansive outdoor space, or would you prefer maximizing indoor square footage for additional amenities? Identifying these must-haves will help refine your options when exploring different floor plans.
Once you have a general idea of your space requirements, start researching various floor plans to understand how different layouts function. Browse websites, visit home design platforms, and attend open houses to see real-life examples of floor plans in action. Focus on homes with similar square footage but avoid restricting yourself to one architectural style. Instead, analyze the flow of each layout and how it aligns with your vision for your custom home.
Taking the time to thoroughly examine different designs will provide valuable insight into how various configurations affect everyday living. Consider aspects such as the placement of bedrooms, proximity of entertaining areas, and overall usability of the space.
When evaluating potential floor plans, it’s important to focus on function rather than decorative finishes. Beautiful hardwood floors or intricate molding might catch your attention, but remember that these elements can be added later. A well-designed floor plan should cater to your lifestyle, offering a seamless flow between rooms and efficient use of space.
Ensure that the layout accommodates your daily routines. Open-concept designs may provide an airy feel but could lead to noise concerns, while traditional layouts offer more privacy but may limit natural light. Weigh these factors carefully to choose a floor plan that meets your specific needs.
Every floor plan has advantages and disadvantages. A spacious great room may create a welcoming atmosphere but might also limit the number of enclosed rooms. A kitchen located near the main entrance can be convenient for unloading groceries but could also mean more foot traffic in the area. Understanding these trade-offs will help you make an informed decision before finalizing your choice.
Once you have narrowed down your preferences, start compiling images, sketches, and references that capture your ideal floor plan elements. Whether it’s an online blueprint or a unique combination of features from different homes, bringing a collection of inspiring concepts will help convey your vision when meeting with your custom home builder.
After gathering ideas and finalizing a preferred layout, it’s time to consult with your custom home builder. Presenting your research, inspirations, and functional needs will facilitate a productive discussion with your builder and architect. They can refine your ideas, offer professional recommendations, and create detailed blueprints tailored to your specifications.
A high-quality custom home builder will work closely with you to ensure that your vision translates seamlessly into the final design. Be open to suggestions while maintaining your core preferences. Once you approve the final floor plan, the construction process will begin, and before long, you’ll be stepping into your newly built home, crafted to reflect your unique style and needs.
Building a home is an exciting but complex process that requires careful planning and consideration. While challenges may arise, being well-prepared can help ensure a smooth experience. Here’s what you need to know before breaking ground on your dream home.
Before designing your home, consider both your current and future needs. Think about how you use space and how your lifestyle might evolve over the next decade. For instance, if you frequently host guests, a spacious kitchen and living area may be essential. If you work from home, a dedicated office space away from high-traffic areas could be beneficial. Family size also plays a role in determining the number of bedrooms and bathrooms required. Additionally, storage is often overlooked but crucial—planning for adequate closet space, garage size, and built-in storage can prevent future frustration.
Budgeting is one of the most critical aspects of homebuilding. A well-structured budget should include the costs of construction, permits, materials, and finishing touches. It’s also wise to set aside a contingency fund to cover unexpected expenses that may arise during construction. While it may be tempting to cut costs in certain areas, prioritizing high-quality materials and skilled labor can save money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.
If financing is needed, obtaining pre-approval from a lender before selecting a builder is a smart step. Pre-approval provides insight into how much you can borrow and allows for better financial planning. There are several financing options available, including construction-to-permanent loans, which streamline the process by converting to a traditional mortgage after construction is complete. Comparing loan options from multiple lenders can help you secure the best rates and terms.
Location is a crucial factor in homebuilding. Consider proximity to work, schools, shopping, and recreational areas. Safety is another major concern, so researching crime rates and community developments can provide peace of mind. Additionally, look into local building codes, zoning regulations, and environmental factors such as water tables and soil conditions, which may impact construction.
Choosing a builder is one of the most important decisions in the homebuilding process. Look for licensed and insured professionals with a strong track record and positive customer reviews. Reviewing past projects, checking references, and visiting model homes can help ensure a good fit. Transparency in pricing, timelines, and communication is also essential. A good builder will not only bring your vision to life but will also keep you informed every step of the way.
Maintaining open and clear communication with your builder can prevent misunderstandings and delays. Be specific about your expectations and regularly check in on progress. Ask questions whenever necessary and request updates to stay informed about each stage of the process. Addressing concerns early can help avoid costly changes down the line.
Even with careful planning, unexpected delays can occur due to weather, supply chain issues, or labor shortages. Having realistic expectations and a flexible mindset can help manage stress during the building process. A good builder will anticipate potential disruptions and work with you to find solutions.
While building a home requires patience and attention to detail, careful planning and a trusted builder can make the experience rewarding. From defining your needs and budget to selecting the right location and professionals, each step plays a crucial role in creating a home that suits your lifestyle. By staying proactive and prepared, you can ensure a smoother construction journey and look forward to moving into your custom-designed dream home.
