Building a custom home can be one of the most exciting times in your life - but it also can be one of the most overwhelming. You get to design a space that's uniquely yours, tailored to your lifestyle and habits, but when you're deep in floor plans and finishes, it’s easy to overlook the little things that can make a huge difference over time. Thankfully, we’ve put together a list to help you out! Here are 10 must-have features you should seriously consider when designing your custom home.

1. A Thoughtfully Designed Mudroom

If you have pets, kids, hate tracking dirt into the house, or just want a place to stash your shoes and coats, a mudroom can be a complete game changer. You can customize it exactly how you want, too: add lockers, storage benches, or any other storage option you can dream to keep the chaos contained right at the door.

2. Extra Electrical Outlets (Everywhere!)

Consider putting in more outlets than you ever think you’ll need, and don’t neglect the low-traffic places. Hallways, closets, kitchen islands, outdoor spaces, windows (for holiday lights!) - the list goes on and on. You can never have too many places to plug things in, but you can have too few.

3. Walk-In Pantry

A spacious pantry is essential to help manage household supplies, groceries, and small appliances. It’ll keep your kitchen counters uncluttered, and everything you own will have a space.

4. Upstairs Laundry Room

This one is a bit more of a personal preference, but if your bedrooms are upstairs, your laundry room should be, too. You’ll save tons of time and energy carrying baskets up and down stairs by planning a laundry room near the bedrooms.

5. Dedicated Home Office or Flex Space

A home office, or flex space, offers huge value. If you work remotely, a quiet, private workspace is invaluable. And even if you don’t, you can use it as a hobby room or a homework zone - or even just an extra sitting area! It gives you plenty of options so your house can adapt to you and your family as you grow or change.

6. Oversized Garage or Storage Bay

A little extra space in the garage can be a life-saver for bikes, lawn gear, or future vehicles. A lot of times people who think they don’t need extra space in the garage end up grateful they have it - or wishing they did!

7. Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor spaces extend your living space beautifully. Seating areas, built-in grills, outdoor fireplaces or kitchens - all of these are great options to take your entertaining outdoors. Throw in a covered patio with a ceiling fan and lights, and you’re good to go!

8. Built-In Storage

Built-ins not only add character to your home, but they are a great option to give extra storage and seating areas without adding furniture. Some options include bookshelves, window seats, closet systems, under-stair drawers, custom cabinet pull-outs, breakfast seating nooks - the list goes on and on!

9. Energy Efficiency Upgrades

While the big push for energy efficient windows, insulation, solar panels, smart thermostats, appliances, etc. is to become more eco-friendly, that’s not the only reason to consider them. They can actually save you thousands in utility costs over time!

10. Primary Suite Luxury Touches

There is nothing more relaxing than a luxurious master bedroom. Think spa-like bathrooms with heated floors, double walk-in closets, luxurious shower heads, large jetted tubs, and whatever else you can think of. Some people even add little coffee bars in their master for easy access in the morning!

When you build custom, every choice feels personal - because it is. By planning for these often-overlooked features, you're creating a home that’s not just beautiful on move-in day, but beautifully functional for years to come.