Mediterranean-style: Building for function, form and beauty

She further notes that Mediterranean-style houses are designed for generous spaced plots to cater to free-flow of movement.

What you need to know:

  • Depending on the homeowner’s preferences, they can be round, square, octagonal or rectangular. They can also choose from a range of styles, including small, large, ornate, plain, elegant, or rustic.
  • Each has a unique look and quality to complement the different decor and theme of the home.

When we think of our dream home, we think of a place that has great architectural elements, and serves its purpose without breaking the bank. This house plan is designed to enable you achieve that.

The single storied house, according to architect Simon Peter Kazibwe, has a Mediterranean-style exterior and a contemporary interior look.

Kazibwe reveals that the Mediterranean style generally includes brick or stucco finishings, low-pitched gable or hipped roof, carved doors, decorative railings, and stonework.

“This style demands a more personal touch, which often results in a house that is elegant, luxurious and relaxed,” Kazibwe explains.

Designed to fit on a 100X50ft plot or more, the plan contains three bedrooms, dining room, kitchen, sitting room, a study room, laundry room, two generous verandahs and a gazebo. Depending on your budget and needs, you can decide to change some of the rooms according to your biggest priorities.

“For example, if you are the kind who works from home, you can convert the study into an office. Or you can convert the laundry room into another bedroom to accommodate a large family,” Kazibwe advises.

The two smaller bedrooms share the general bathroom located between them to serve occupants without having to go to their respective rooms.

The master bedroom on the other hand, is rather spacious with a sitting area, en-suite toilet and bath, and a complete dressing room. The master suite also has its own private balcony that is only accessible from the bedroom.

The house is budgeted to cost Shs75m for high cost finishings and Shs55m for low cost finishings. The budget, according to design architect Dolores Mukisa Makholo, is where most architects find challenges.

“Architects struggle to create a balance between building for functionality and aesthetics on a budget. In most cases, you find one being sacrificed for the other,” Makholo observes.

She further notes that Mediterranean-style houses are designed for generous spaced plots to cater to free-flow of movement.

“There is liberal use of open floor plans, which provide optimal views and breezes from large windows and balconies. Interiors that open onto outdoor living spaces and distinct placement of lighting, sloped roof, decorative columns or window elements and arches,” Makholo adds.

This house is perfect in places that have warm climates because the design enables them to remain cool. The roof and floor that are often made of tiles keep the home cool on a hot day.

Typical of Mediterranean-style houses, this plan too provides space for a gazebo. Located next to the main entrance, the is outdoor space is a beautiful focal point of the home as well as providing shade from the sun during the hot days and shelter during the rainy ones.

Here are some key aspects to consider when planning a gazebo.
Functionality
The first step to consider when building a gazebo is what will be its primary use. If it is to be used as a place to entertain guests, then the size should be large enough for a table and chairs. A smaller gazebo would be ideal for a small amount of people with the additions of simple furnishings.

Location
Many homeowners who go for this plan choose a location in front or beside the house. This position is ideal for friends and family to have convenient access to the home for a quick trip to the bathroom or kitchen for a snack.

Design
Depending on the homeowner’s preferences, they can be round, square, octagonal or rectangular. They can also choose from a range of styles, including small, large, ornate, plain, elegant, or rustic. Each has a unique look and quality to complement the different decor and theme of the home. If the location is in front of the house, it is a good idea to choose materials and a style that compliments the exterior design of the home. The material selection should be weather resistant and durable to ensure an ever-lasting gazebo.
Source: https://www.homestratosphere.com