Looking for your first home or upsizing to accommodate a growing brood? Finding the right property for your family can feel overwhelming. From layout and location to outdoor space and storage, there’s a lot to think about. Perhaps you already have a list of must-haves, or you might be unsure what today’s homes can offer?
As the home-building experts, we know what makes a great family home. Our beautiful new homes are designed with modern family life in mind: practical, comfortable and built to grow with you. From super storage solutions to spacious bedrooms, we’ve thought of everything, so you don’t have to. Let’s look at what makes a great family home in 2025 and talk about things to consider to make sure your new home is one you’ll love for many years to come.
Open-plan spaces
Family life can often feel like ships passing in the night. With work, school, sports and other activities going on, finding time together can be a challenge. A large communal living area, such as an open-plan kitchen/diner, offers a great solution for busy households. It brings you all together, even if you’re doing different things. It’s a place for the kids to do their homework while you prepare dinner, a sociable hub during breakfast time or somewhere younger kids can happily play or watch TV while you make lunch. It’s ideal for those big gatherings too. Whether it’s curry night, Sunday roast or a birthday tea, an open-plan space makes family time that much easier.
Plenty of storage
Families come with a lot of stuff! From school bags to toys to lots and lots of laundry, the accoutrements of family life certainly take up a lot of space. Without anywhere to store it, homes can quickly feel cluttered and life more chaotic. One of the key things that makes a great family home is having a place for everything. Peter Ward homes come with a plethora of clever storage options, from understairs storage for everyone’s coats and shoes to integrated garages for bikes, sports kit and barbecues. Plus, dedicated utility rooms mean you can keep muddy football kits and overflowing ironing baskets out of sight.
Generously sized bedrooms
Whether it’s for playdates, sleepovers or schoolwork, spacious bedrooms make all the difference in a family home. And for tweens and teenagers especially, having their own space to hang out in is essential for their (and your!) sanity. What makes a great family home is somewhere that will grow with your family, and our sizable bedrooms mean our homes will do just that. There’s plenty of space to take them from the cuddly toy years right through to GCSEs and their experimental DJ phase!
Quiet areas to chill
Your home should be a sanctuary. When thinking about what makes a great family home, a relaxing space to retreat to should be a priority. Family life can be busy, hectic and stressful, and although time together is important, a place to chill when you need some ‘me time’ can be a lifesaver! This could be a cosy nook painted in soothing colours that provides a space for you to read or knit, a secluded corner of the garden where you can relax and listen to the sounds of nature or a spare bedroom turned into a yoga space, chill-out zone or somewhere to practise your hobbies.
Outdoor living space
It’s well-known that the British love their gardens. Not only are they our very own haven, they’re a safe space to kick a ball, somewhere to play with the pets or invite the neighbours over for a BBQ.
The popularity of outdoor living means that gardens are now an extension of the home, places to socialise, relax and enjoy meals together. With the right seating, lighting and heating options, your outside area can be enjoyed all year round. Whether it’s a morning coffee on the patio, a teddy bear’s picnic on the lawn or drinks around a fire pit, a welcoming outdoor space can help you create those feel-good moments.
Location, location, location
The perfect family home isn’t just about the right house, it’s about the right location too. Being close to schools, shops, healthcare and transport links, as well as leisure facilities and green spaces, makes everyday life so much easier — and far more enjoyable. As the experts in home building, not only are our developments close to all the essential amenities, but you’ll find beautiful countryside and family-friendly attractions nearby too. From rolling hills and sandy beaches to aquariums and arcades, there are adventures to be had just beyond your doorstep.
So, what makes a great family home? The perfect property is more than just walls; it’s where memories are made. Come and see it for yourself — let us help you choose your new Peter Ward home.
Why not browse our collection of current properties and get in touch to arrange a viewing.