Planning errors can begin with the choice of the building lot. And we often forget that requirements change in the course of our lives: children grow up and need more space; parents grow older and need less space, but handicapped accessible rooms and tood infrastructure.

Morning person or night person? Housewife or working mother? Where is the haven of tranquility for a stressed father? Where do we put the toys, the athletic equipment, the garden tools and the old yet usable furniture? The lifetime project of building a house has many hurdles.

• When you select your building lot, don't forget: How long is the way to work or school? Is public transportation available? Is snow cleared in the winter? Where is the nearest shopping? Is there a doctor or hospital nearby? Can you retain your connections to friends and family? 

• Allow enough time for planning.
• Assure your financing.
• Plan with your eye on the future. Empty conduits and installation shafts enable later enhancements and modifications. Plan sufficient chimneys. Include connections for a solar system.
• Some constructions elements are pretty, such as a bay window, but need more energy.
• A draft lobby saves energy and street soil is not carried into the house.
• Employ a hedge as wind protection, but avoid shadow effects.
  
  Distribution of inside space
• The kitchen and dining room are usually the center of family life.
• Rooms that are too large are seldom used.
• An optimal combination is a pantry in the kitchen area.
• Bedrooms should be tranquility zones.
• Children's rooms must afford space for movement and play.
• Work rooms need to be planned sensibly.