Small houses of 90 square meters (about 970 square feet) are gaining popularity as more people embrace downsizing and efficient living spaces. These compact homes offer a balance between comfortable living and reduced environmental impact. A well-designed 90m2 house can provide all the essentials for modern living while minimizing wasted space and energy consumption.
Architects and designers are creating innovative small house plans that maximize functionality within limited square footage. These designs often feature open floor plans, multi-purpose rooms, and clever storage solutions to make the most of every inch. By focusing on smart layouts and thoughtful details, 90m2 homes can feel spacious and accommodate various lifestyles.
The trend towards smaller houses reflects changing priorities and a growing awareness of environmental issues. Homeowners are reconsidering the need for large spaces and embracing the benefits of a reduced footprint. From lower utility bills to easier maintenance, 90m2 houses offer practical advantages without sacrificing comfort or style.
Designing a Small House
Creating a functional and appealing 90m2 home requires thoughtful planning and clever design choices. Effective space utilization, ample natural light, and cohesive aesthetics are key elements to consider when developing small house plans.
Maximizing Space Efficiency
Small house designs demand creative solutions to make the most of limited square footage. Open floor plans work well in compact homes, creating a sense of spaciousness. Multi-functional furniture, such as storage beds or expandable tables, can serve dual purposes. Built-in shelving and cabinetry utilize vertical space effectively.
Consider:
- Loft areas for sleeping or office spaces
- Sliding doors to save floor space
- Compact appliances sized for small kitchens
- Under-stair storage solutions
Clever room layouts can make 90m2 feel much larger. Position furniture strategically to create clear pathways and maintain an uncluttered appearance.
Incorporating Natural Light
Ample natural light is crucial in small house plans to create an open, airy atmosphere. Large windows, skylights, and glass doors can flood interiors with sunlight, visually expanding the space. Reflective surfaces like mirrors and glossy finishes help bounce light around rooms.
Key strategies include:
- Positioning windows on multiple walls for cross-ventilation
- Using clerestory windows to bring light deep into the home
- Opting for light-colored walls and ceilings to brighten spaces
- Installing glass interior doors to allow light flow between rooms
Natural light not only enhances the perceived size of a small house but also reduces the need for artificial lighting during daytime hours.
Choosing the Right Aesthetics
The visual design of a small house significantly impacts its overall appeal and functionality. A cohesive color scheme and consistent design elements create a harmonious flow throughout the 90m2 footprint. Light, neutral colors can make spaces feel larger, while strategic pops of color add visual interest.
Consider:
- Minimalist design to reduce visual clutter
- Vertical stripes or patterns to enhance ceiling height
- Seamless indoor-outdoor transitions to extend living areas
- Scaled-down furniture proportionate to room sizes
Thoughtful material selection, such as using the same flooring throughout, can unify spaces and create a sense of continuity in small house designs. Emphasize quality over quantity in finishes and decor to achieve a polished look without overwhelming the space.
Essential Components of a 90m2 House
A well-designed 90m2 house maximizes space efficiency while providing comfortable living areas. Key elements include smart bedroom layouts, a functional kitchen, and an organized living space.
Layout of Bedrooms
Bedrooms in a 90m2 house require careful planning to maximize space. A master bedroom typically measures 12-14m2, while secondary bedrooms range from 9-11m2. Built-in wardrobes save floor space and provide ample storage.
Large windows invite natural light, creating an illusion of spaciousness. Multi-functional furniture, such as beds with storage drawers, optimizes room usage.
Strategic placement of electrical outlets and lighting fixtures enhances functionality. A neutral color palette can make bedrooms feel larger and more open.
Kitchen Design
In a 90m2 house, the kitchen often adopts an open-plan layout, seamlessly integrating with the living area. L-shaped or galley designs work well in compact spaces, typically spanning 8-10m2.
Efficient storage solutions are crucial. Floor-to-ceiling cabinets maximize vertical space, while corner units utilize awkward areas. Pull-out pantry shelves offer easy access to supplies.
Energy-efficient appliances save space and reduce utility costs. A kitchen island can serve multiple purposes, providing extra counter space, storage, and a casual dining area.
Good ventilation and task lighting are essential for a comfortable cooking environment.
Living Space Organization
The living room in a 90m2 house usually occupies 20-25m2. An open-plan design creates a sense of spaciousness and improves flow between areas.
Multi-functional furniture is key. A sofa bed accommodates guests, while coffee tables with hidden storage keep the space tidy. Wall-mounted shelves and TV units free up floor space.
Large windows or glass doors leading to outdoor areas extend the living space visually. Light colors and mirrors can make the room appear larger.
Strategic furniture placement creates distinct zones for relaxing, dining, and working. Proper lighting, including ambient, task, and accent options, enhances the room’s versatility.
Exterior Features
Small houses of 90m2 can showcase charming and functional exterior designs. Key elements like porches, landscaping, and garages contribute to maximizing curb appeal and usability in compact spaces.
Front Porch Design
A well-designed front porch enhances the entrance of a small house. For 90m2 homes, compact porches around 2-3m2 work well. Consider a covered porch to provide shelter and extend usable outdoor space. Railing designs can include simple wood balusters or decorative metal for added character. Built-in seating optimizes space usage.
Porch flooring options include:
- Wooden decking
- Stamped concrete
- Brick pavers
Lighting is crucial for safety and ambiance. Wall sconces, pendant lights, or recessed lighting in the porch ceiling illuminate the area effectively.
Landscaping for Small Houses
Strategic landscaping enhances small house exteriors. Focus on low-maintenance plants that complement the home’s architecture. Vertical gardens and container plantings maximize limited ground space.
Key landscaping elements:
- Foundation plantings to soften edges
- A small tree as a focal point
- Defined pathways using pavers or gravel
- Raised beds for flowers or vegetables
Incorporate hardscaping elements like a small water feature or decorative rocks. Use outdoor lighting to highlight landscaping features and improve security. Consider drought-resistant plants to reduce water usage and maintenance.
Garage Options
For 90m2 houses, garage solutions must be space-efficient. A single-car attached garage is common, typically 3x6m. Detached garages can preserve the main house’s facade if space allows.
Alternative parking solutions:
- Carport (covered parking without walls)
- Parking pad with permeable pavers
- Compact underground garage (where terrain permits)
Garage doors impact curb appeal significantly. Modern designs include:
- Glass panels for natural light
- Wood-look materials for warmth
- Smart openers for convenience
Multi-functional garages can incorporate storage solutions or workspace areas. Consider adding a small loft for extra storage in garages with pitched roofs.
Comparing Small and Large Living Spaces
Living spaces come in various sizes, each with distinct advantages and challenges. The choice between small and large homes impacts lifestyle, finances, and environmental footprint.
Benefits of Smaller Living Quarters
Small house plans offer numerous advantages. Lower utility costs make them more economical to maintain. Reduced cleaning time frees up hours for other activities. Compact spaces encourage minimalism and thoughtful organization.
Smaller homes often have a cozier atmosphere, fostering closer relationships among occupants. They typically have a lower environmental impact due to reduced energy consumption. In urban areas, smaller living spaces can provide access to desirable locations at more affordable prices.
Many small houses maximize functionality through clever design features like:
- Multi-purpose furniture
- Built-in storage solutions
- Open floor plans to create a sense of spaciousness
Challenges of Downsizing
Transitioning from big houses to smaller living spaces presents certain hurdles. Storage becomes a key concern, requiring creative solutions and decluttering. Homeowners must often part with excess belongings or find alternative storage options.
Limited space can feel constraining, especially for those accustomed to larger homes. It may require adjustments in lifestyle and social habits. Hosting large gatherings becomes more challenging in compact quarters.
Privacy can be harder to achieve in smaller homes, particularly for families. Noise travels more easily, and personal space may be at a premium. Adapting to these changes takes time and patience.
Some struggle with the perceived status associated with home size. However, many find that the benefits of downsizing outweigh these initial challenges, leading to a more streamlined and intentional way of living.
Construction and Budgeting
Building a 90m2 house requires careful planning and budgeting. Selecting cost-effective materials and creating a detailed financial plan are crucial for a successful small house project.
Cost-Effective Building Materials
For 90m2 small house plans, choosing affordable yet durable materials is essential. Engineered wood products offer strength at a lower cost than solid timber. Concrete blocks provide excellent insulation and are typically less expensive than poured concrete walls.
Metal roofing is a long-lasting option that can reduce long-term maintenance costs. For interior finishes, consider laminate flooring instead of hardwood, and opt for standard-sized windows and doors to avoid custom pricing.
Prefabricated elements like wall panels or roof trusses can significantly cut on-site labor costs and construction time.
Budgeting for a 90m2 House
A detailed budget is critical for a 90m2 house project. Start by researching local construction costs per square meter. Factor in site preparation, foundation work, and utility connections.
Allocate funds for:
- Structural components (30-40% of budget)
- Mechanical systems (15-20%)
- Interior finishes (10-15%)
- Exterior finishes (10-15%)
- Labor costs (20-30%)
Include a contingency fund of 10-15% for unexpected expenses. Obtain multiple quotes from contractors and suppliers to ensure competitive pricing. Consider energy-efficient features that may increase upfront costs but reduce long-term expenses.
Regular budget reviews throughout the construction process help maintain financial control and prevent overspending.
Furnishing a 90m2 House
Maximizing space and functionality is key when furnishing a 90m2 house. Smart furniture choices and clever decor strategies can transform a small living area into a comfortable, stylish home.
Space-Saving Furniture
Multi-functional pieces are essential in a 90m2 house. Consider a sofa bed for the living room, which doubles as guest accommodation. Wall-mounted desks and fold-down tables save floor space when not in use. Built-in storage solutions, like under-stair drawers or floor-to-ceiling shelving units, utilize vertical space effectively.
Modular furniture adapts to different needs. Sectional sofas can be rearranged to suit various room layouts. Nesting tables provide extra surface area when needed and stack neatly when not in use.
Opt for slim-profile furniture to maintain open pathways. Floating shelves and wall-mounted cabinets keep the floor clear, creating an illusion of more space.
Decor Tips for Small Houses
Light colors on walls and floors reflect light, making rooms appear larger. Mirrors strategically placed opposite windows amplify natural light and create depth.
Use multi-level lighting to define different areas within a room. Pendant lights over dining tables or reading nooks create focal points without taking up floor space.
Vertical stripes on walls or curtains draw the eye upward, enhancing the perception of height. Choose low-profile window treatments to maximize natural light.
Dual-purpose decor items, like storage ottomans or decorative baskets, add style while providing extra storage. Large-scale art pieces create impact without cluttering the space.
Avoid overcrowding with furniture and decor. Carefully curate items to maintain a balance between functionality and aesthetics in the limited space.