Have you ever wondered why most homes are rectangular instead of circular? Or why do medieval castles feature tiny windows and thick stone walls? The answer lies in function over form.

Throughout history, home design has been driven by necessity. Before aesthetics became a focus, homebuilders prioritized safety, durability, and efficiency. Even today, when planning a home remodeling project, function remains a crucial consideration, whether you’re redesigning a kitchen, updating a bathroom, or adding a sunroom.

Let’s explore how home improvement has evolved from ancient architecture to modern living spaces—and why function will always come first.

Early Home Designs: Built for Survival

Long before modern construction techniques, people built homes to withstand their environments. Some of the earliest dwellings, such as yurts, igloos, and African rondavels, had distinct advantages:

• Better wind resistance – Without sharp corners, wind flowed smoothly around these structures, reducing pressure on any one side.

• Structural integrity – The curved shape helped distribute weight evenly, preventing weak spots from forming.

• Efficient use of materials – These homes maximized space while using fewer materials, making them easier to construct.

Many nomadic tribes built homes that were not only functional but also portable. Structures like tipis and yurts were lightweight and could be quickly assembled, allowing for easy relocation—a concept that still influences today’s modular homes and outdoor living spaces.

The Rise of Rectangular Homes

As civilizations advanced, rectangular homes became the standard. This shift happened for several reasons:

• Easier construction – Stone, brick, and timber were easier to work with in straight lines.

• Scalability – Expanding a rectangular home was much simpler than modifying a circular one.

• Interior space efficiency – Rectangular layouts allowed for better furniture placement and traffic flow.

Even in modern times, home additions—such as extending a kitchen, building a deck, or adding a sunroom—are easier with a rectangular footprint.

Medieval Castles: The Ultimate Functional Homes

While castles may look grand today, their designs were entirely functional. They were fortresses first and homes second, featuring:

• Thick stone walls – To withstand sieges and enemy attacks.

• Tiny windows – To prevent intruders from entering while keeping archers protected.

• Strategic placement – Built on hills or cliffs for a tactical advantage.

While we no longer build homes like medieval castles, we still incorporate security and durability into our designs. Today’s homeowners prioritize reinforced doors, smart locks, impact-resistant windows, and durable roofing materials to enhance safety.

How Modern Homes Prioritize Function Over Form

Despite advances in technology and aesthetics, modern homes are still designed with functionality in mind. Some key elements include:

1. Kitchens: The Functional Heart of the Home

The kitchen has evolved into the central gathering space, but functionality remains key. Smart kitchen layouts, such as the work triangle (efficient spacing between the stove, sink, and fridge), ensure easy movement. Homeowners now prioritize:

• Durable countertops like quartz and granite.

• Storage solutions, including deep drawers and hidden pantries.

• Energy-efficient appliances that save money and resources.

Upgrading a kitchen during a home remodeling project often starts with function—maximizing storage, improving lighting, and enhancing workflow.

2. Bathrooms: A Balance of Luxury and Utility

Bathrooms serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. Features like walk-in showers, double vanities, and heated floors enhance comfort while still meeting practical needs. Water-efficient fixtures and low-maintenance materials are now a top priority for homeowners looking to modernize their space.

3. Decks and Outdoor Living Spaces: Expanding Usable Space

A well-designed deck or sunroom extends your living space beyond the walls of your home. Outdoor living areas are built for durability, with:

• Weather-resistant decking materials like composite and treated wood.

• Covered patios and pergolas for shade and protection.

• Functional lighting and seating to enhance usability at all hours.

Function is just as important outside the home as it is inside, ensuring that decks and sunrooms remain comfortable and resilient throughout the seasons.

Why Open Floor Plans Became So Popular

One of the biggest shifts in home improvement trends is the rise of open floor plans. While they look modern and stylish, the reason they gained popularity is their functionality:

✅ Better natural light – Fewer walls allow more sunlight to flow through the space.
✅ Improved airflow – Open designs help regulate temperature and reduce the need for artificial cooling.
✅ Flexible living spaces – Perfect for hosting gatherings, working from home, or adjusting layouts as needs change.

Many homeowners today choose kitchen and living room remodels that embrace this open concept, proving that function still leads form in modern home design.

Function For The Win!

While home design today embraces style, function remains the driving force. From circular homes that resisted wind to modern kitchens, bathrooms, and decks built for durability, every living space is shaped by necessity first and aesthetics second.

So, when planning your next home remodeling project, remember to prioritize efficiency, comfort, and durability—because, in the end, function always wins.

Would you rather live in a round, wind-resistant yurt or a classic rectangular home?