10 Custom Home Design Mistakes Maryland Homeowners Always Regret (And How to Avoid Them)
Building a custom home in Maryland is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create the perfect space for your family. But with so many decisions to make, it’s easy to overlook important details that can affect your comfort, functionality, and even resale value.
At Lilmac Builders, we’ve seen the pitfalls firsthand. To help you avoid costly regrets, here are 10 common custom home design mistakes Maryland homeowners make—and how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring Future Needs
Many families design their home for today but forget about the future. Whether it’s planning for children, aging parents, or retirement, your home should grow with you.
How to Avoid It:
Consider a first-floor primary suite for aging in place.
Add flexible rooms that can serve as offices, playrooms, or guest spaces.
2. Poor Kitchen Layouts
The kitchen is the heart of the home. A poorly designed layout can lead to constant frustration.
How to Avoid It:
Follow the “kitchen work triangle” (sink, stove, refrigerator).
Include plenty of counter space and storage.
3. Skimping on Storage
From closets to garages, lack of storage is one of the most common regrets.
How to Avoid It:
Walk-in closets in bedrooms.
Mudrooms with cubbies.
Built-in shelving in living areas.
4. Not Considering Natural Light
A dark home feels smaller and less inviting.
How to Avoid It:
Add larger windows, especially in main living spaces.
Incorporate skylights or transom windows where possible.
5. Placing the Laundry Room in the Wrong Spot
A laundry room that’s hard to access quickly becomes a nuisance.
How to Avoid It:
Place laundry near bedrooms.
Add soundproofing if near living spaces.
6. Overlooking Energy Efficiency
High utility bills are a regret you can avoid.
How to Avoid It:
Invest in quality insulation and windows.
Choose Energy Star-rated appliances.
Consider solar readiness.
7. Forgetting About Outdoor Living
Maryland homeowners often wish they had planned for more outdoor space.
How to Avoid It:
Add a covered porch or deck.
Include gas hookups for outdoor kitchens or fire pits.
8. Misplacing the Garage
A poorly located garage can hurt curb appeal and convenience.
How to Avoid It:
Position the garage with easy kitchen access.
Consider side-entry garages for aesthetics.
9. Overspending on Trends
Trendy finishes look great today but may not age well.
How to Avoid It:
Stick with timeless designs for major features.
Add trends through paint, furniture, or décor.
10. Choosing the Wrong Builder
Even the best design can fail without the right builder.
How to Avoid It:
Work with a reputable Maryland builder with proven experience.
Ask for references and view past projects.
