Windows have changed places, walls have moved or even disappeared completely. We were actually very happy with our initial floor plan. But when we got into the detailed construction planning, we realized there was still room for improvement. 

You have to look closely to spot the differences in the layout. The biggest changes are in the bedroom, walk-in closet, and bathroom. But there were also some adjustments in the basement.

Exterior views of the building on site

Floor Plan Changes on the Ground Floor: Bigger Bedroom, Smaller Kitchen

In the first draft, the bed was on a different wall. But when we wake up, we want to look out at the large window front facing the greenery. To make that possible, the bedroom had to be widened.

Since the kitchen was planned very generously, we were able to shift the wall between them. That made both the bedroom and the walk-in closet larger.

Floor plan of the street level. (Click to enlarge)

Bedroom Windows: Daylight vs. Privacy

Originally, our architect had planned to fully glaze both exterior walls of the bedroom. A beautiful idea, but too open for us — especially because parts of the neighboring house are on the same level.

Now, the window only wraps around the corner a little bit. The view into the greenery remains: the front of the bedroom is still fully glazed. Since the reduced window surface allows less light in, we added a floor-to-ceiling window in the walk-in closet.

Bathroom Planning: New Layout for Sink and Toilet

In the master bathroom, we rearranged the toilet, sink, and room divider. The goal: more space and a visual separation. The toilet is now next to the sink, separated by a wooden room divider. The space freed up by this will be used for a cabinet, and a towel radiator will be placed between the shower and the sink. To avoid looking directly at the toilet when entering the bathroom, we moved the door a bit to the left.

Optimized Floor Plan in the Basement

In contrast, little has changed in the basement. We moved the bathroom door and removed the planned wall in the utility room. It would have separated the washing machine. Without it, the room is more functional — we gain space and save a door.

Floor plan of the basement level. (Click to enlarge)

Many small changes can make a big difference. The final floor plan feels right. Of course, we won’t really know what it’s like to live in it until later. What do you think? What would you have paid attention to during the planning phase?