At American Heritage Homes, our New Home Consultant Emily brings more than just experience—she also holds a degree in Interior Design. That unique combination allows her to guide homeowners through smart structural choices and thoughtful layout customizations that elevate both form and function. Here are her top five tips for designing a home that works beautifully for your everyday life.

1. Think About How You Live—Not Just Square Footage

A large home doesn’t always mean a better home. Consider how each space will actually be used. Need a private home office like the one in the Pembroke? Looking for a larger laundry room, similar to the one in the Oxford? Or maybe a kid-friendly mudroom, like the Meadowbrook offers? Let your lifestyle lead the layout.

2. Prioritize Flow Between Spaces

Pay close attention to how rooms connect and interact with each other. An open-concept design may suit some families perfectly, while others may prefer more defined spaces for added privacy or sound control.

3. Add Smart, Functional Extras

Little design decisions—like adding a pocket office, walk-in pantry, or extra storage in the mudroom—can make a big impact on how comfortable and efficient your home feels.

4. Customize with Confidence

Your home should reflect you. Adjusting room sizes, reconfiguring layouts, or adding bonus spaces is not only possible—it’s encouraged. That’s the beauty of working with a truly custom home builder like American Heritage Homes!

5. Design for Now—and Later

Whether it’s preparing for a growing family, future aging-in-place needs, or resale value, think long-term. Flexibility and foresight in your home’s design today can save stress—and money—tomorrow.