01/09/2026
These are the build decisions I’d make again without hesitation (number 3 is the one everyone always asks about)
Building The Wattle House taught us a lot, but these are the calls that I feel have paid off the most. Higher ceilings changed the whole feel of the house, and the warmer white walls stop it from feeling stark or cold. Our alternate kitchen layout with the large farmhouse sink was one of the best upgrades we made, we use this kitchen so differently because of it.
Doing our own lighting and mirrors meant we got way more choice for the price. Splurging on tiles instead of going cheap made such a difference too, cheaper tiles have so much more height variation once they’re actually laid. That’s why they never quite look as good.
Changing the floorplan to fit a proper mudroom is one of those small tweaks that makes a daily difference. And the facade, while it cost more, is the reason this doesn’t feel like a volume build. Mind you, some days I do question how much it cost 😭
Save this for your next selections appointment so you can budget for some of these extra items. They are worth it, I promise.
Volume build | new build tips | home upgrades | new build journey