Designing a Low-Maintenance Home

From durable materials to practical layouts, here’s how to design a low-maintenance home that looks great and works for you.

1. Choose Durable, Low-Maintenance Materials
The materials you select for your new build can significantly impact how much upkeep is required over the years. High-quality, hard-wearing surfaces are an investment that pays off in durability and ease of cleaning.

For kitchen and bathroom benchtops, quartz and engineered stone offer the look of natural stone without the maintenance requirements of marble or granite. In high-traffic areas, porcelain tiles and vinyl flooring are excellent choices, as they resist scratches, stains, and water damage.

For exterior cladding, brick, metal, or fibre cement options require minimal maintenance, making them a great choice for a long-lasting, low-maintenance exterior.

2. Keep Your Home’s Design Simple and Functional
A well-thought-out house plan can reduce maintenance demands from the start. Open-plan living spaces aren’t just great for flow and natural light - they also mean fewer tight corners and awkward spaces where dust and grime can accumulate.

If you’re planning a new build, consider a customisable house plan that suits your lifestyle. Finding the right balance between the number of bathrooms, storage solutions, and finishes can make daily upkeep easier in the long run.

3. Select the Right Paint Finishes
Walls are one of the most used surfaces in a home, so choosing the right paint can save you time and effort in the long run. Washable, scuff-resistant paints in satin or semi-gloss finishes make it easy to wipe away marks and dirt - perfect for high-traffic areas such as hallways and living spaces.

4. Smart Storage for a Clutter-Free Home
A new home isn’t just about the design - it’s also about how easily it functions day to day. Well-planned storage solutions help reduce clutter, meaning less tidying and cleaning overall.

• Smart garage storage – Utilise overhead storage racks, built-in cupboards, and well-organised shelving can keep tools, outdoor gear, and seasonal items neatly tucked away.
• Well-designed linen cupboards – Thoughtfully arranged storage with dedicated spaces for towels, bedding, and household essentials ensures everything is easy to access and keep organised.
• Pull-out pantry shelves and deep kitchen drawers – These maximise storage space while keeping everyday items within easy reach.

5. Choose Low-Maintenance Fixtures and Fittings
Certain fixtures can make a big difference when it comes to keeping your new home looking clean with minimal effort.

• Opt for brushed nickel, chrome, or stainless steel finishes on taps and handles - these are more resistant to fingerprints and watermarks.
• Wall-hung vanities and toilets make it easier to clean the floors underneath.

6. Reduce Grout Lines in Bathrooms and Kitchens
Grout is one of the most common problem areas in kitchens and bathrooms, as it can easily discolour over time. Using larger tiles with minimal grout lines can significantly reduce the amount of cleaning required. In bathrooms, a walk-in shower with no glass is a great low-maintenance option - eliminating the need for scrubbing shower screens and water spots.

7. Plan for a Low-Maintenance Outdoor Area
Your home’s exterior can be just as important as the interior when it comes to minimising upkeep.

• Consider the size of your section - while a large lawn might seem appealing, it will require regular mowing and care. If you prefer a low-maintenance outdoor space, incorporating decking, paving, or artificial turf can reduce the need for constant upkeep.
• Opt for native or drought-resistant plants that require less watering and pruning.
• Choose durable fencing and exterior finishes - materials like composite decking and powder-coated aluminium fencing require minimal maintenance.

8. Invest in Smart Home Features
Technology can help reduce day-to-day maintenance in your new home. Smart home features - such as automated lighting, robotic vacuum cleaners, robotic lawn mowers, and app-controlled irrigation systems - can take care of household tasks with minimal effort. Even something as simple as a self-cleaning oven can save time and reduce the need for scrubbing and maintenance.

Less Maintenance, More Enjoyment

Designing a low-maintenance home means thinking ahead and making smart choices from the start. By selecting durable materials, functional layouts, and easy-to-clean finishes, you can create a home that works for your lifestyle - so you can spend less time on upkeep and more time enjoying the things that matter most.

If you’re looking to build a new home, Platinum Homes can help you create a thoughtfully designed space that’s as practical as it is beautiful. Get in touch today to start planning your dream home.