Most Keralites nurture a dream of building one’s own house that perfectly reflects their personality and interests too. However, some of them fall into the trap of vanity and compete with their neighbours when it comes to the size of their houses and the amenities that are included. There are hundreds of families who have been mired in debts after they have tried to imitate the mansion in the neighbourhood. It is the positive attitude of the family members and the incredible ambience that make a house extraordinary.
Some designer features are added only for the sake of looks and nothing else. While it might look amazing on some houses, over-the-top design gimmicks would only be a waste of money on other structures. Experts say that one should spend money on designer features only if you have the budget for that. There is no point in spending exorbitant amounts of money for designer features or décor items if you cannot afford it. There are some avoidable mistakes that people often commit while constructing homes. Take a note of them if you wish to build your dream abode without breaking your bank.
» Complex exteriors
Loading the exteriors with intricate cement works, mural works, expensive claddings and concrete works has become a common thing now. These ‘decorations’ are often a waste of money rather than adding an aesthetic quality to your house. If you are on a tight budget and cannot afford such design gimmicks, it is better to stay away from them and go for simple and minimal styles.
» No proper planning
Starting construction without proper planning could result in losses. Relatives and friends might chip in with instructions and opinions while the construction progresses. It is quite natural that the owner feels obliged to listen to them or might even begin to think that they are right. They would then make swift changes in the plan which eventually would topple the budget. Sticking to the plan would ensure that the budget wouldn’t overshoot.
» Teak doors and windows
There is a common misconception that having the doors and windows made in teak wood would ensure additional security. If not all the doors, people are interested in having at least the entrance door made in teak. However, it doesn’t ensure total safety; nor does it mean that a burglar wouldn’t break in. Alternate wood or timber that are equally sturdy but costs less could be used to make the doors and windows.
» Loading with decor
Most houses have now become museums or galleries where exquisite décor and furnishing items are exhibited by enthusiastic family members. Many falsely think that crowding the living spaces with over-the-top decor would make these areas ‘extra’ beautiful. Instead of decorating the interiors with expensive vases, bowls, paintings and crystals, the houses could be spaces where the creative flair of the family members is proudly flaunted.
» Light fittings
Light fittings can change the look and mood of both the interior and exteriors spaces. From warm and cool shade lights to expensive chandeliers, there are countless types of light fittings available in the market. However, these fancy lights are power-consuming and would make your electricity bill skyrocket. Some people might fix lots of beautiful lights in their house but never switch them on. Before spending money on fancy light fittings and installing lots of light points, one must think about whether they are actually required.
» Choosing colours
Designing each space in a unique color theme would definitely make your house look spectacular. However, this might not be a smart idea for those who are building houses on a proper budget. These bright colors could burn a hole in the pocket as they cost double the price of a lighter shade. Moreover, these brighter colors can never compete with the serene charm of the white hue. White or lighter shades of hues are cheaper and make the spaces look vaster too. Besides, you could decorate the spaces with colorful furniture or interesting décor to complement the white walls. It is important to remember that the charm of a house wouldn’t be lost if it isn’t colored in a thousand different hues.
» Is show kitchen really necessary?
Building a show kitchen, besides the working kitchen and the work area has become a trend now. Those who have the budget would build two or three kitchens as per their requirements. Emulating such trends without thinking whether you really need such luxuries would land you in a financial mess. A show kitchen isn’t really necessary in an ordinary household and could be avoided. The flooring, cupboards and furnishing in both the kitchens would cost you a bomb. Keeping a simple kitchen clean and tidy is the most important thing. An adjacent work area would be enough to make the kitchen area efficient. Building a show kitchen for a small family is a waste of money and space.
» Lavish curtain fittings
Interior designers say that there is no point in spending too much money for curtain fittings. Some people are fascinated by the luxurious drapes, inner and outer curtains and the exquisite fabric with tassels. Simple yet elegant curtains make the interiors look fabulous. Readymade curtains in amazing designs are available in the market in case you are looking for affordable options.
» Verdant lawns
Many believe that merely growing lush and verdant lawns in your front yard is called a landscape. Shady and fruit-bearing trees are cut down so that they can make way for ‘posh’ lawns. However, it must be noted that maintaining a lawn is extremely difficult and might require an extra set of hands. Another disadvantage of growing a lawn is that it requires lots of water. Maintaining a lawn is an expensive affair especially during the summers when there is a scarcity of water. Moreover, without any trees to cool down the premises, the temperature would soar inside the house.
» Boundary walls
Compound walls that are enormous and feature intricate design works are often symbols of luxury and flamboyance. Tall walls would block the view of the elevation from the road. Besides, these walls would stop cool breeze from entering the house too. This would cause the yard to heat up and the interiors would feel very hot and unpleasant. Simple and sturdy compound walls could easily be built on a moderate budget. Jali works and GI pipes would not only make the compound walls look amazing, but save you some extra bucks too.
