Brown Harris Stevens New Development has represented the sale of thousands of new homes, and over the years I’ve personally renovated three of my own in three different cities, supported by teams of exceptionally talented collaborators. And yet, even with all the expertise, guardrails, and best intentions, the same simple, quality-of-life improvements are consistently overlooked.
Here are a few that make an outsized difference:
Door-jamb switches: Every closet light should turn on the moment you open the door. It feels luxurious, it’s practical, and it prevents bulbs from burning unnecessarily.
Towel bars that actually work: People use towels like tissues and most homes, even seven-figure ones, don’t provide enough space for them to dry properly. Thoughtful placement and adequate linear footage matter.
Two dishwashers: If you can find the space, install them. In our house, with two adults and a 12 pound dachshund, we somehow manage to keep it full. It’s one of the highest-impact upgrades you can make.
A junction box in every room: Add one preemptively, and wire for bedside sconces while you’re at it. Flexibility in lighting is one of the easiest ways to future-proof a space.
Home office planning: Is your workspace properly lit, with good airflow? Do you have sufficient power? You’re likely spending at least eight hours a day there, and it should be designed with the same care as any other essential room in your home.
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