We loved our house from the first time we went through, but it really didn't have enough living space. We have worked on improving the layout of the home and increasing the living area of the home to create a modern and more pleasant layout to the home. We are really proud of how the job has turned out and we wanted to share some of the details of how the extension and layout changes where designed and constructed. This blog has some of the photos of our extension as well as tips that we have learnt along the journey,.
Construction & Contractors Blog
As block in the inner city shrink, more property owners elect to subdivide unusually shaped blocks such as triangles. These can require some tweaking of standard 'block' shaped house designs, but these often look fantastic when completed. Here are some house design tips to keep in mind if you have a triangle shaped building block.
Check the required setbacks
Councils often have a required setback from surrounding properties at the road. Once these are taken into account there can be a limited building window for your home. Councils may be flexible if you meet with them and discuss your preferred design but you will generally also need the permission of the neighbours to build outside of the standard setback distances.
Design your yard along with the house
If you can build in the middle (right angle) of your triangle it can offer a great opportunity to build custom outdoor spaces. Think about which yards will be in the shade at different times of the day and create spaces that are suited to each area, such as warm courtyard to have breakfast and make the most of the morning sun. A yard that catches afternoon sun might be a great space for a small plunge pool and some outdoor chairs to enjoy a drink at the end of the day.
Plan living areas for the triangle sections
Lounge rooms and living areas have the most flexibility for setting up room in a triangle section. Kitchens and bedrooms can often fit better into the trapezoid and rectangular rooms as furniture such as beds and stoves tend to come in rectangle shapes.
Embrace the triangle shape of the block
Rather than trying to hide the unusual shape of the block or tweak an existing design it can be well worth getting a building design done from the ground up that takes into account both the block shape and other constraints such as access to the block for the builder. A uniquely designed house can take into account specific issues such as noise management from nearby laneways and streets, or privacy with neighbouring homes. A design that emphasises rather than trying to work around the block can become a talking point and enhance the appeal of your home.
If you have a triangle building block and are wondering the best house design for your block it can be worth chatting to a custom builder.
Share1 August 2016
