08/20/2026
Building a new home? Here are 5 things worth adding before the walls close in 👇
🔩 In-wall blocking for grab bars — solid blocking in the shower walls costs almost nothing at framing stage. Retrofitting later? Easily $1,500+.
🧺 Recessed niche above the washer/dryer — that dead space above your machines is prime real estate. Frame in a shallow shelf so your appliances sit flush and you gain functional storage at eye level.
⚡ Pre-wired conduit from panel to garage + attic — empty conduit runs now mean EV chargers, solar, or smart home upgrades later without opening a single wall. One of the easiest future-proofs in the build.
🚿 Curbless shower drain offset to the side wall — Offsetting it gives you a cleaner look, easier tiling, and full flexibility on where your fixtures land.
🏠 Drop zone rough-in in the mud room — frame out that alcove before drywall goes up, even if you're not finishing it yet. Built-in bench, cubbies, hooks, charging drawers
