Many design firms here in Miami specialize in a specific style of architecture. More often than not, this style is a reflection of the typical modern home. This has resulted in a proliferation of homes that look very similar, both inside and out. 

Some might even say these homes are so similar that they get lost in the crowd, even though they’re so big and luxurious. Instead of admiring their beauty, people just look right past them.

Do you want a home that looks just like everyone else’s? It’s perfectly fine to want that – we don’t judge. We are less concerned with maintaining a certain style and more concerned with designing a home that speaks to the unique needs and taste of the owner. If that is to match the style of the neighborhood – we’re in. If it’s to stand out – we’re also in. 

With this in mind, here’s how we go about designing homes make you feel at home:

Priority #1: What is Your Lifestyle?

When we meet with new clients, we start by asking them about their lifestyle. How do they use their home? Which parts of their home do they spend the most time in? What’s their favorite thing to do in their home? What would they like to use their home for that they aren’t right now? Where would they like to spend the most of their time?

We ask these questions because everyone’s lifestyle is unique. One person’s favorite space might be the kitchen, another person’s might be the home office. One person might view their home as a lively social hub, another might view their home as a calming sanctuary. 

Asking these questions allows us to design a home that adds more value to your favorite space and simplifies your daily routine. 

Maximize the Value of Your Favorite Spaces

Let’s say your favorite part of your home is the living room. You love playing video games, having friends over to watch NFL Redzone, and unwinding in front of the TV after a long day. Since you spend so much time in this space, your newly designed living room should be as relaxing and accommodating as possible, as opposed to a standard living room with typical accessories (e.g. sectional sofa, TV, coffee table). 

Conversely, maybe you love to be outside in your backyard. The other homes on your block might have pools and a few lounge chairs in their backyards, but your unique personality demands more. In addition to more outdoor furniture, we might build you an outdoor kitchen and shaded entertainment area with a TV, ceiling fans, lighting, and a fire pit. 

Go Bold with Color Palettes

When a developer builds a home to sell, they tend to use neutral color palettes. Your home, however, doesn’t have to. What are some of your favorite colors? Which shades bring you joy and peace? If you prefer rich and vibrant colors, don’t be afraid to let those creative juices flow into your walls and furniture. 

Private spaces like your bedroom, bathroom, or study are more ideal for bolder color choices because they’re rarely inhabited by guests. Come to think of it, why not drench the entire space (walls, ceiling, trim) in your favorite bold color? Talk about unique!

Mix and Match Colors and Materials

Your lifestyle can also inform the colors you choose for different spaces. For example, let’s say you love cooking and hanging out in your kitchen. Your friends might have chosen to paint their kitchens white or black, but are these the colors you want to look at every day? 

The same concept applies to materials. Marble countertops are popular here in Miami, but they’re not as durable and easy to maintain as other options. When your friends ask you why your kitchen doesn’t look like everyone else’s, you can simply tell them, “It’s because I actually USE my kitchen!”. 

If you have a specific vision in mind for your home, it’s important to choose an architectural firm capable of accommodating a wide variety of stylistic preferences. At Debowsky Design Group, our signature style is to focus on client’s individual needs.  Our goal is to bring each client’s visions to reality, not to build the same home over and over again. 

So, when you’re ready to design a home that makes your life easier, get in touch and we’ll get started!