The Smartest Home Design Decisions We're Seeing in Asheville Custom Builds and Renovations
After working with hundreds of Asheville homeowners over the years, our design team has seen some truly ingenious solutions that make daily life so much easier. These aren't just flashy trends that'll be out of style next year; they're practical, thoughtful design decisions that solve real problems.
Here are the smartest home design ideas we've been incorporating into recent projects, and why they're worth considering for your next renovation or custom build.
Pet-Friendly Solutions That Actually Work
Custom Toe-Kick Pet Feeding Station
One of our favorite recent innovations is a custom toe-kick drawer system designed specifically for pet bowls. Instead of having food and water dishes cluttering your kitchen floor, we built a pull-out drawer right into the toe-kick area of our client’s kitchen cabinets.
The drawer slides out smoothly when it's mealtime, then disappears completely when not in use. It keeps the bowls at the perfect height for your pets while maintaining clean sight lines in your kitchen. Plus, no more kicking over water bowls when you're cooking dinner.
Built-In Dog Food Storage
Similar to pull-out trash systems, we designed custom pull-out containers for dog food storage. These built-in solutions keep large bags of pet food fresh and accessible without taking up precious pantry shelf space. The containers are airtight and sized to hold standard pet food bags, making feeding time simple.
Mudroom Pet Washing Stations
Pet washing stations in mudrooms have become increasingly popular, especially among active families in Asheville. These aren't just for dogs; they're perfect for washing muddy hiking boots, rinsing gardening tools, or cleaning up after any outdoor adventure.
We typically design these with standing-height bases to save your back, non-slip surfaces for safety, and handheld sprayers for maximum flexibility. The key is using durable, water-resistant materials that can handle daily use while still looking intentional and beautiful.
Laundry and Closet Innovations
Second Washer and Dryer in Primary Closet
This is a game-changer for busy households. Installing a compact washer and dryer unit right in the primary bedroom closet means you can wash and fold clothes in the same space where you get dressed. It's particularly smart for delicate items or clothes that need special care.
The units we install are compact but full-featured, and we design custom cabinetry around them to maintain a clean, built-in look. It's not replacing your main laundry room; it's adding convenience where you need it most.
Rolling Hamper Pass-Through System
Here's a clever detail that makes laundry day significantly smoother: a built-in pass-through between the primary closet and laundry room, complete with a rolling hamper system. Dirty clothes go directly from the closet into a hamper that rolls through to the laundry room.
We've designed these with appropriately sized openings that maintain the clean look of both rooms while creating a seamless workflow.
Additional Smart Design Solutions
Hidden Charging Stations
Built-in charging stations tucked into kitchen islands or bathroom vanities keep devices charged and cords organized. Creating dedicated slots for tablets and phones with USB outlets inside drawers ensures your counters stay clean and cord-free.
Multi-Level Kitchen Islands
Islands with different height levels, one for prep work and another bar-height section for casual seating, create natural zones for different activities. The raised section keeps guests out of the work area while providing a social space for them to enjoy.
Under-Stair Storage Systems
Instead of wasting the space under staircases, design custom storage systems with pull-out drawers and specialized compartments. These are perfect for storing everything from vacuum cleaners to seasonal decorations.
Appliance Garages with Pop-Up Outlets
Keep countertops clear by creating dedicated storage for small appliances with built-in outlets that pop up when needed. Your coffee maker or stand mixer is always ready for use, but hidden when not needed.
Custom Pantry Pull-Outs
Pull-out shelving systems in pantries make everything visible and accessible. No more buying duplicates because you forgot what you had buried in the back. Every inch becomes usable space.
Why These Solutions Work
The best design decisions solve real problems while looking intentional and beautiful. Smart storage solutions maximize space while minimizing clutter, maintaining both functionality and aesthetics.
What makes these ideas particularly smart is that they're designed around how people actually live. They anticipate daily routines and remove small frustrations that add up over time.
Planning Your Smart Home Features
The key to successful, smart design is assessing your specific needs and lifestyle during the planning phase. Every family is different, so cookie-cutter solutions don't work.
When we meet with clients, we take the time to understand their daily routines, pet care needs, and the biggest household frustrations they face. Then we design custom solutions that address these specific challenges.
Consider Your Long-Term Needs
Don't just design for what you need now; consider future lifestyle changes, family growth, or new hobbies. Flexible storage and adaptable systems give you room to grow.
Focus on High-Impact Areas
Start with the spaces that get the most use: kitchens, mudrooms, primary closets, and laundry areas. Smart solutions in these areas have the biggest impact on daily life.
Getting Started
The smartest home design decisions are the ones that make your daily life easier while adding long-term value to your home. Custom solutions that blend seamlessly into your home's design minimize clutter and maximize both beauty and functionality.
If you're planning a renovation or custom build, think about the small frustrations in your current home. Chances are, there's an innovative design solution that can solve them.
Visit our showroom to see some of these smart storage solutions in person and discuss with our designers which custom solutions might work best for your lifestyle. After all, the best homes are the ones that make daily life feel effortless.
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