What criteria should I take into account when choosing my house plan?
- coraliefortin076
- Sep 1
- 5 min read
Are you planning a residential construction or renovation project in Quebec? Whether you're building your dream home, a family cottage, or a functional garage, choosing a house plan is a fundamental step that will not only influence the success of the project, but also your daily comfort for years to come. A good plan isn't just about a simple room layout: it reflects your lifestyle, adapts to your lot, respects your budget, and anticipates your future needs.
At Plan Maison Québec, we know how complex this decision can seem. That's why our team of architectural technicians and building designers will work with you with rigor and creativity to design a personalized plan that complies with standards and, above all, is perfectly suited to your reality.
In this article, we guide you through the main criteria to consider when choosing your house plan, sharing our local expertise and practical advice. Whether you are at the thinking stage or already ready to launch your project, this information will allow you to make informed, sustainable choices... and without compromise.
1 . Understanding your needs and defining your budget
1.1 Analyze your lifestyle
The first step in choosing a house plan is to consider your lifestyle. Every family is different, and a successful home is, above all, one that's adapted to your daily life. Do you spend a lot of time cooking? Do you work from home? Do you enjoy entertaining? These answers will help define priority spaces: a spacious kitchen, a closed office, an open space for entertaining, etc.
At Plan Maison Québec, our experts take the time to identify these key elements during the initial discussions. This ensures that each plan is designed not only with your tastes in mind, but also with your daily reality in mind. This step is essential to avoid regrets later on and to ensure that your home will make your life easier rather than more complicated.
1.2 Anticipating the evolution of the family
A well-designed home must also be adaptable. If you plan to expand your family, welcome a relative, or work from home in the long term, the plan must incorporate this medium- and long-term vision. This could involve adding a bedroom to the basement, providing an easily isolated office space, or designing a multifunctional room.
Plan Maison Québec always favors a flexible approach that allows you to easily adapt your home to changes in your family life. A plan isn't set in stone: it must follow your personal growth.
1.3 Establish a realistic budget
Many projects fail due to a lack of proper budgeting from the outset. In addition to the construction cost, you must factor in expenses related to land purchase, permits, connections, finishing touches, landscaping, and, of course, unforeseen events. A well-constructed budget avoids unpleasant surprises.
At Plan Maison Québec, we help you design a plan that respects your financial constraints. We also advise you on choices that can reduce costs without sacrificing quality, such as simple roof shapes, compact volumes, or durable materials with good value for money.
2 . Adapt the shape and size of the house to the land
2.1 Analyze natural constraints
A lot can present several challenges: slope, soil type, water, wind exposure, etc. These factors must be taken into account before designing a plan. For example, on a sloping lot, a walk-out basement can be an excellent solution. On a flat lot, a single-story house fits more naturally.
The Plan Maison Québec team always conducts a comprehensive site analysis to propose a plan that takes advantage of natural assets and overcomes challenges. It is this careful adaptation that makes the difference between an ordinary plan and an intelligent one.
2.2 Take advantage of orientation
The orientation of a house has a direct impact on energy consumption and comfort. A well-oriented house benefits from sunshine in winter, stays cool in summer, and offers beautiful natural light year-round. Living rooms should ideally face south, bedrooms east or west, and utility rooms north.
At Plan Maison Québec, we systematically integrate these bioclimatic principles into our plans to provide maximum comfort while reducing your energy bills.
2.3 Respect the authorized template
Urban planning regulations vary from one municipality to another. Maximum height, setback, habitable area, roof types... all these elements must be met to obtain a building permit. A non-compliant plan can delay your project by several months.
With Plan Maison Québec, you can rest assured that your plan will comply with all municipal standards from the start. We verify the regulations and adapt the plan accordingly, without compromising your expectations.
3 . Choose the type of house: single-story, two-story or with basement
3.1 The advantages of single-story living
A single-story home is ideal for those looking for a space without stairs, whether for mobility, security, or simplicity. It makes getting around easier and often offers a large, open living area, which is very popular in Quebec.
However, it requires more floor space, and therefore a larger lot. To optimize space, Plan Maison Québec offers compact, well-organized plans that maximize every square meter.
3.2 The modularity of two-story houses
A two-story house allows you to gain living space without increasing the footprint. This is ideal for smaller lots or urban projects. It also provides a clear separation between living and sleeping areas, which is appreciated by families.
Plan Maison Québec's two-story plans are designed to optimize circulation and light. The layout of the stairs, landings, and openings is carefully designed to provide privacy, comfort, and efficiency.
3.3 The potential of the subsoil
The basement is an excellent opportunity for expansion, especially when it's well-designed. It can accommodate a games room, a home theater, an office, or even a rental unit. This allows you to maximize the space and add value to your property.
At Plan Maison Québec, we often incorporate a habitable basement into our plans, taking into account natural light, insulation, ventilation, and access.
4 . Custom plans or pre-designed models
4.1 Standard models: a quick and economical solution
Our pre-designed plans are designed according to architectural best practices and field-tested. They're ideal for those looking to build a home quickly and on a budget. They're also perfect for self-builders or first-time buyers.
At Plan Maison Québec, we offer the option of making modifications to these models to adapt them to your style and your lot.
4.2 The custom plan: for a unique home
Do you have a clear vision of your ideal home? A custom plan is for you. It allows you to start from scratch and design a 100% personalized project, tailored to your land, your tastes, your needs, and your constraints.
Plan Maison Québec specializes in custom plans. Thanks to our team of experienced designers, we transform your ideas into a tangible, harmonious, and perfectly functional home.
Conclusion : criteria for choosing a house plan
Choosing the right plan means laying a solid foundation for a successful construction project. It requires analysis, planning, and rigor... but above all, good support. From understanding your needs to adapting to the site and addressing regulations, every detail counts. That's why you need clear criteria when choosing your house plan.
At Plan Maison Québec, we don't just draw up plans. We build a life project with you. Our experts advise you, listen to you, and offer concrete, sustainable solutions tailored to your Quebec situation.
Ready to take the first step towards your dream home?
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