Totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve always wondered if adding stuff like a built-in coffee bar or a weirdly specific closet would make sense for us, but then I start thinking about resale. My approach is to list out “must-haves” vs. “nice-to-haves,” then check what’s common in listings around my area. If it’s something super personal, I try to keep it easy to remove or convert later. It’s tough, though—sometimes you just want what you want, right?
WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?
That’s a really practical way to look at it. I see a lot of people get tripped up by the resale question, especially with custom features. You’re right, sometimes you just want that built-in espresso machine or a closet that only makes sense for your collection of vintage board games. There’s always a balance between turning a house into your home and keeping one eye on how someone else might see it down the road.
From my experience, most clients who are happiest with their homes start by getting really clear on what’s truly essential for their daily lives. The “must-have” vs. “nice-to-have” list is spot on. What I’d add is looking at how often you use those unique features in your current space. For example, I had a couple who swore they needed a massive mudroom because they’re always outdoors with their dogs, but after a week tracking how they actually came and went, they realized it wasn’t as critical as they thought. Sometimes the dream feature is more about the idea than the reality.
I’m curious—how much do you think resale should factor into your decisions? I’ve seen people regret going too generic, just to play it safe. On the flip side, there are cases where ultra-personal choices make a place harder to sell, even if they brought joy to the owner. Do you feel like there’s a line where it’s worth it to just go for what you want, knowing you might have to undo it later?
Another thing that comes up a lot is flexibility. If you’re adding something unique, can it be easily converted back? For instance, I’ve built out home offices that could be turned into bedrooms with minimal work, or specialty storage that’s just drywall and paint away from being a regular closet again. It’s not always about avoiding the quirky stuff, but maybe planning so future owners don’t see it as a dealbreaker.
What’s the weirdest or most specific thing you’ve ever wanted in a house? Sometimes those stories are the most interesting part of the design process...
I’ve seen people agonize over resale value, but honestly, if you’re planning to stay put for a decade or more, I think it’s worth leaning into what makes you happy. That said, I always suggest designing with a bit of flexibility in mind—like making sure that wild home gym could become a guest room later. The oddest request I’ve had? Someone wanted a secret passage between their office and the pantry... surprisingly practical during Zoom calls.
Honestly, I get the whole “do what makes you happy” angle, but I’ve seen people regret going too niche. Ten years goes by fast, and life changes—kids, aging parents, whatever. That secret passage sounds fun until you’re trying to sell and buyers just scratch their heads. Flexibility’s good, but I’d argue practicality should come first.
Totally get where you’re coming from. I keep wondering if it’s worth spending extra on something super specific, like a built-in reading nook or a dog shower. Is it just wasted money if the next owner doesn’t care? Or do those little things actually help resale sometimes? I’m all for making a place feel like home, but I’d hate to regret it later.