How to Arrange Houses in Animal Crossing New Horizons: Maximize Space and Create Your Dream Island LayoutSarah ThompsonSep 05, 2025Table of ContentsTips 1:FAQTable of ContentsTips 1FAQFree Smart Home PlannerAI-Powered smart home design software 2025Home Design for FreeArranging houses in Animal Crossing: New Horizons goes beyond simple placement—it's a crucial part of your island's overall design, atmosphere, and flow. Whether you're planning a cozy neighborhood or want to give each villager their own unique corner, strategic house arrangement not only maximizes space but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your island. Let’s walk through a step-by-step approach to arranging houses, blending both practical tips and design insights for stunning results.1. Visualize Your Theme and ZonesStart by sketching the theme you want—maybe an urban center, a rural village, or themed districts (like beaches, forests, or cliffsides). As a designer, I always use a room planner or mapping tool—even if it’s just gridded paper—to test layouts before committing. This helps you anticipate how pathways, gardens, and communal areas will connect.2. Consider Accessibility and FlowKeep main roads and bridges in mind. Place houses near essential facilities like Resident Services, shops, or the airport if you want accessibility. Alternatively, create secluded retreats for unique vibes. Make sure no house feels isolated—integrate natural paths or fencing for cohesion.3. Balance Symmetry and VarietySymmetric placements work well for structured neighborhoods, while staggered or curved arrangements feel organic. Vary yard sizes and fencing styles for personality, using landscape features (trees, rivers, inclines) to break up monotony and inspire exploration.4. Personalize Each PlotDedicate gardens, patios, or hobby areas based on each villager’s interests. For your own house, maximize the space to showcase your architectural creativity in both outdoor decor and placement.5. Plan for ExpansionLeave room for new villagers, and create flexible open spaces that can evolve over time. Think about seasonality and future updates—swap out decor or reorganize when inspiration hits (or when you unlock new items and terraforming abilities).Tips 1:Staff streets with custom paths, benches, and street lamps to evoke a “community” feel. Include shared spaces—parks, plazas, or markets—as social hubs. As a designer, I find defining boundaries with hedges, water features, or elevation changes creates natural neighborhoods that invite exploration while keeping each house distinct.FAQQ: How do I move houses in Animal Crossing: New Horizons? A: Speak to Tom Nook at Resident Services. For a fee, you can relocate your own or any villager’s house; the process completes the next day.Q: Can I arrange houses close together to form a neighborhood? A: Yes, houses can be set as close as one space apart, allowing for compact, urban-style neighborhoods.Q: Are there limitations to where I can place houses on my island? A: Houses cannot be placed on rocky beaches or too close to rivers, cliffs, or existing structures. Use terraforming to optimize space if needed.Q: How do I make my house stand out from others? A: Use custom paths, fencing, unique landscaping, and outdoor furniture to give your home a signature look. Consider the interior decor, too—reflect your personal style!Q: What’s the best tool for planning house arrangements in Animal Crossing? A: Many players use graph paper, online island planners, or digital room planner tools to experiment with different layouts before moving houses.Home Design for FreePlease check with customer service before testing new feature.