Smart, Fun, and Functional: Affordable Upgrades for Your Custom Home Build

Fun and Cost-Effective Additions for Your Custom Home Build: Making Life Easier, Productive, and Fun

Building a custom home with Buffum Homes gives you the chance to design a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle. While choosing floorplans and materials is exciting, it’s also a great opportunity to think about fun and cost-effective additions that can enhance everyday life. From boosting productivity to adding efficiency or a bit of joy to your routine, here are some features to consider when designing your dream home.

1. Smart Home Features

Integrating smart technology into your custom build is a simple way to make your home more efficient and enjoyable. Devices like smart thermostats, lighting systems, and locks can be controlled from your phone, making your daily routine seamless. These systems help conserve energy and provide convenience at your fingertips.

◦ Smart Thermostat: Save energy by automatically adjusting temperatures based on your schedule.

◦ Smart Lighting: Set mood lighting with voice commands or control the ambiance with scheduled lighting.

◦ Smart Locks: Keyless entry systems let you unlock the door from anywhere, and even give access to guests without needing to be home.

These features are affordable, easy to install, and add both functionality and fun to your space.

2. Built-In Charging Stations

Tired of hunting for chargers or dealing with tangled cords? Installing built-in charging stations in key areas of your home—like the kitchen, office, or living room—can help eliminate the clutter of cables and make life more efficient. Consider integrating USB outlets directly into kitchen counters or desk spaces for a clean, convenient charging solution.

3. Drop Zone/Mudroom Lockers

A well-organized entryway or mudroom can be a game-changer for busy households. Incorporating cubbies, hooks, and built-in benches for shoes and bags keeps clutter under control and makes it easier to head out the door. This feature is especially useful in Michigan, where the weather is unpredictable and having a designated spot for wet boots and coats is a lifesaver.

4. Outdoor Living Space

Adding a cost-effective outdoor living space doesn’t just enhance your home’s fun factor—it can extend your usable square footage for entertaining or relaxing. A simple patio with a fire pit, or a deck for grilling and outdoor dining, creates a space for spending quality time with loved ones. Plus, these spaces are easy to customize to fit any budget.

5. Multi-Functional Laundry Room

Laundry may not be the most exciting task, but designing an efficient, multi-purpose laundry room can make it easier. Adding features like folding tables, hanging rods for drying clothes, or even pet washing stations can turn the laundry room into a functional space that works harder for you. Buffum Homes can help customize this space to fit your specific needs, from practical shelving to fun additions like chalkboard walls or bright color schemes to add some personality.

6. Home Office or Study Nook

With more people working remotely or tackling projects from home, a dedicated workspace can be both productive and cost-effective. It doesn’t have to be a full-sized office— a study nook tucked under the stairs or in a quiet corner can be perfect for keeping work organized. Add some custom cabinetry or shelving for a streamlined look.

7. Energy-Efficient Appliances

While we all want our homes to be fun and comfortable, efficiency is key. Choosing energy-efficient appliances helps reduce your energy bills while still providing top-tier performance. Buffum Homes can assist you in selecting appliances that not only fit your kitchen or laundry spaces perfectly but also contribute to the overall efficiency of your home.

8. Hidden Storage

Incorporating hidden storage solutions throughout your home can be a fun and creative way to keep clutter out of sight. Consider features like built-in shelves under the stairs, pull-out cabinets in the kitchen, or even a hidden pantry. These additions don’t just help organize your space—they also create a sleek, uncluttered look.

9. Entertainment Areas

Create fun spaces that the whole family will enjoy. Whether it’s a cozy home theater, a game room, or a basement bar, adding an entertainment area can make your home the ultimate destination for relaxation and socializing. Buffum Homes can help design a space that suits your lifestyle, whether it’s adding surround sound for movie nights or setting up an area for gaming or board games.

10. Dog Wash Station

For pet owners, a built-in dog wash station is a simple yet incredibly helpful feature. It saves time and mess, especially during Michigan’s rainy seasons when muddy paws are a common occurrence. A tiled shower with a handheld sprayer in the mudroom or garage makes cleaning up after your pets a breeze.

Your Custom Home, Your Way

Building a custom home isn’t just about making something beautiful—it’s about creating a space that reflects your lifestyle. At Buffum Homes, we’re here to help you choose features that make life easier, more productive, and more fun without breaking the bank. Whether you’re considering smart technology, hidden storage, or a functional laundry space, our team is ready to guide you through the process and help bring your vision to life.

Thinking of something specific that would make your home more enjoyable? Reach out to our team, and let’s talk about how we can make it happen!

Image is of the Parade of Homes 2023 House, featuring the Oakfield floorplan