A good floor plan can make or break a house. While the position and quality of the property are important, the layout is often the key factor that differentiates a good house from a great one.
So, what should you look for in a great floor plan? There are several aspects to consider, but here are a few of the most important ones:
1. Natural Light
Does the floor plan make the most of natural light? Rooms that face north with large windows will generally benefit from more sunlight throughout the day. This is crucial for ensuring a bright home, which is often preferred over a darker space. Focus on kitchens, living areas, and dining rooms, as these are the heart of everyday living.
If natural light is limited, consider how you can improve it—perhaps by adding an extra window or even a skylight.
2. Open Plan
Having a seamless and unimpeded flow throughout the house can make your home feel bigger, share light throughout rooms, and creates a sense of space which importantly can make watching kids or entertaining family and friends easier and more enjoyable!
A well-designed open plan also enhances indoor-to-outdoor flow, making it ideal for entertaining guests.
3. Separation of Living Rooms from Bedrooms
A well-laid out property will have good separation between bedrooms and living areas and the kitchen, with both able to easily access bathrooms.
Bedrooms and bathrooms that are off hallways are usually preferred. And if they are down the south side of the house, even better.
An optimum floor plan will not only have good separation of living rooms from the bedrooms, but also the master bedroom separated from the other bedrooms.
4. Size of Bedrooms
Bedrooms should be spacious enough to fit a decent-sized bed and furniture without feeling cramped. We typically recommend a minimum of 3×3 metres, though this can vary depending on whether the room includes built-in wardrobes. Be cautious about relying on floor plan measurements in listings—if you’re unsure, it’s worth measuring the space yourself.
5. Ceiling Heights
Ceiling heights play a significant role in how spacious a home feels. Higher ceilings generally make a room feel larger and more open.
A typical ceiling height is around 2.4 to 2.7 meters, but period homes, warehouses, or modern luxury properties may feature ceilings that are 3.6 meters or more.
6. Multi-level
For multi-level properties, functionality is key. No one wants to constantly run up and down stairs, so it’s essential that the layout is convenient and practical. For example, having a powder room on each level can improve the home’s usability. A master bedroom on the ground floor is also a great feature, as it can appeal to buyers who may not want to deal with stairs as they age.
A good floorplan balances functionality, flow, and flexibility, it makes everyday living more comfortable and efficient. Whether you’re designing a new space or evaluating an existing one, focusing on layout, natural light, and room connectivity can make all the difference. Ultimately, a well-thought-out floorplan lays the foundation for a home that feels both practical and welcoming.