5 Tips to Build Affordable

Before you break the bank, know these worthwhile tips from architects and builders on how to save cost in your next building project. Undoubtedly, keeping things simple is financially wise. Read our 5 tips on how to build affordable.

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Keep it small

Do you really need 20 square meters of space for your bedroom? and is it necessary to have a bathroom for each room, or can they share one instead? Keep things small. In this age, many people are now opting for small living spaces to save costs. Keeping it small also reduces the efforts that comes with cleaning a huge house. Sell or give away stuff you don’t need as they also clutter your mind and take up plenty of storage space.

Complex design in contrast with a simple modern house.

Avoid complexity

As an Architect, i understand complicated designs are beautiful in its own right, but it is also unnecessarily expensive. Having too many moldings, corners, and edges just skyrockets the cost. We definitely wont protest if you want a complex design, but since you’re reading this article, I presume you want to save cost. There are a lot of modern and minimalist designs possible that are just as elegant which makes it a popular and affordable choice.

Splurge on specific areas only

I’m not an advocate of being stingy in construction materials, but when it comes to finishes, splurge strategically. Kitchens are often the busiest place in your house, therefore, spend on durable and easy to clean finishes. Using modular kitchens is a wise choice as they are easy to clean, and it’s smart space-saving appurtenances will come in handy.

As for material finishes, there are a lot of alternatives than using the authentic ones. For example, instead of using real stone or wood for your floors, synthetic ones are now available that are just as durable yet cheaper in cost. Some of these are high-grade vinyl imitating real wood, or manufactured stone cladding. Also, place these finishes strategically like on your porch or living room. Don’t place them everywhere as it just defeats its purpose.

Spend on furniture/furnishing

Many homeowners make the mistake of building an expensive home yet buy furniture based on what’s left of the budget. You wont be lounging on your floor nor will you be leaning back on your walls to relax. It will be on your furniture. So set aside a reasonable budget for your furniture. It doesn’t matter how simple the house may be, its the furniture that will bring out the best in it!

Invest on green technologies

No other means of saving can give more benefit in the long run than investing on energy saving materials and technologies. There are plenty of innovative and sustainable methods available in the market such as the use of LED lights, Inverter Air Conditioning, Rainwater harvesting and others. These elements can reduce energy and water consumption by as much as 70%. Energy savings however, is not limited to technology. There are also smart solutions that may be implemented on the building envelope. Use of double glazed windows allows natural lighting, thus reducing electric costs while minimizing heat transfer. Insulated wall panels keep the air cool inside, consequently reducing air conditioning costs.

Some of these components may be pricey at first, but the savings realized in the long run far outweighs the initial costs.