Crafting Paradise: 10 Must-Haves for Your Ground-Up Orange County Home

Congratulations! You're right on the cusp of turning your dream of a custom family home in sunny Orange County into a reality!

Let's pause for a moment and soak in the sheer excitement of crafting your very own piece of paradise in this picturesque locale.  It's like being handed a blank canvas and a palette of endless possibilities. In this blog, we're diving deep into the top 10 absolute must-haves for your new Orange County abode – the features that will elevate your daily life and make your Orange County residence truly amazing!


1. Abundant Natural Light

Imagine waking up to sunlight streaming into every corner of your new home. It's not just about feeling good; it's about being eco-smart too! Those strategically placed high quality windows will give you an energy-efficient home that mother nature herself would approve of!

Living room designed by newport beach interior designer, Vieve Interiors

Living room designed by VIeve Interiors

2. Walk-In Pantry or Butlers Pantry

Now, let's talk about the heart of your home – the kitchen! Say hello to a walk-in pantry that's basically an organizer's dream come true. Hosting a party? Consider a butler's pantry, often referred to as the "dirty kitchen," where you can prep food or contain the culinary chaos, all while seamlessly entertaining your guests.

Custom black butlers pantry designed by newport beach interior designer

Butlers pantry designed by Genevieve Chambliss of Vieve Interiors while working at Dwellings Design Group.

3. Energy Efficiency

Go green and save green! Solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, energy-efficient appliances, and a tankless water heater are your eco-warrior companions, reducing your carbon footprint while cutting down those pesky utility bills!

4. Smart Home Technology

Your home isn't just bricks and mortar; it's your new best friend. With smart lighting, a sophisticated thermostat, built-in sound systems, and top-notch security, your home becomes your ultimate sidekick. Oh, and don't forget about those motorized window treatments – the perfect blend of luxury and convenience!

Luxurious master bedroom designed by newport beach interior designer

Motorized window treatments in master bedroom designed by Genevieve Chambliss while working at Dwellings Design Group.

5. Thoughtful Electrical Outlet Placement

The unsung heroes of your home! Plan your electrical outlets like a pro – behind nightstands for device charging, cleverly hidden in spacious living areas, your outdoor living areas, and even in the bathroom (for future upgrades like bidets or washlets – trust us, it's worth it)! Make sure to consider aesthetics too when placing your outlets. Hiding them under kitchen cabinet uppers is key to keeping your beautiful new backsplash as stunning as ever.

Modern master bathroom designed by newport beach interior designer, Vieve Interiors

Master bathroom designed by Vieve Interiors with hidden electrical outlets in medicine cabinets as well as in a drawer.

6. Motion Switches

Ever stumbled in the dark during a midnight bathroom trip? Fear not! Motion switches, especially the ones hidden under bathroom toe kicks, are like your guardian angels, lighting your way without you even lifting a finger.

Bathroom with blue cement tile floors designed by newport beach designer

Bathroom with toe-kick lighting on a motion sensor designed by Genevieve Chambliss of Vieve Interiors while working at Dwellings Design Group

7. Built-in Accessibility

Everyone deserves comfort and convenience. Make your home accessible to all with widened doorways and in the lower level suite that include a add curbless showers with grab bars – it's the ultimate gesture of hospitality.

8. Laundry Room Proximity

Bid farewell to laundry-day struggles! A laundry room near the bedrooms means no more lugging baskets up and down stairs. Laundry day? More like laundry minute!

9. Steam Shower

Welcome to your personal spa retreat! A steam shower in your bathroom is like having a 24/7 oasis of relaxation right at your doorstep.

Spa-like master bathroom with steam shower designed by Newport Beach interior designer

Master Bath with steam shower designed by Genevieve while working at Dwellings Design Group

10. Covered Outdoor Living Space

Last but certainly not least, extend your indoor living experience to the great outdoors with a covered living space. Whether it's a patio, deck, or porch, a covered outdoor area is your year-round escape – perfect for savoring the fresh Orange County air. Not to mention, an outdoor living area can raise the value of your home by 12.4 percent.

In the enchanting landscapes of Orange County, crafting your new home with these 10 must-have features is the key to enhancing your daily living experience. By seamlessly blending functionality, aesthetics, and modernity, you can create a residence that not only caters to your needs but also reflects your personality. Embrace these elements, and watch as your home becomes a sanctuary of comfort, destined to bring you joy for years to come. Welcome to the future of living in Orange County!