Building on a small plot is a popular option for early homebuyers, discounters, and budget conscious.
Roy Rosa, chief interior designer and architect at Shelford Quality Homes, said buying a tight block appeals to those on a tight budget who seek the convenience of living in close proximity to services that have made life easier.
“You can live near cafes, restaurants, bars, schools, stores, public transportation and parks without buying a high-value plot of land in the city,” he said.
“Tight blocks are becoming more attractive at a lower price point, so affordability plays a big role in the decision-making process.”
Alistair Harris, Celebration Homes sales director, said people also chose smaller blocks out of a desire to reduce gardening and maintenance.
“This increases the area of the house and the homeowner does not need additional garden space,” he said.
Most people don’t want to spend the little spare time they’ve spent keeping up with maintenance in their homes, said John Kerr, Home Buyer Center director and new product manager.
“It’s all about your individual lifestyle and creating a home filled with what you really need,” he said.
For any small plot, strategic planning and careful design are key, as every inch of potential space is accounted for.
“Making the most of your narrow building means having a functional floor plan,” said Mr. Rosa.
“It’s the first step to creating or maximizing the space to get rid of dead or wasted areas in the home.
“One of the best ways to maximize space is to combine open-plan connected rooms and efficient spaces.”
Mr. Harris agreed, highlighting the importance of positioning and functions for each room.
“We put small bedrooms at the front of the floor plan to make more room for the master bedroom in the middle of the house where the view opens out from the garage,” he said.
Using high ceilings is another design ploy to add volume to the interior of a small plot, according to Mr. Rosa.
“High ceilings are effective in creating this illusion of more space to make the room appear lighter and less cluttered,” he said.
“Consider raising ceilings in the main living area or adding a void in your two-story design.”
With such limited space, storage space can become a highlight, so Mr. Care said incorporating efficient storage solutions is a must.
“It comes down to where you can maximize the storage opportunities you already have in your home,” he said.
“Use upper cabinets in the kitchen or laundry, use the built-in linen closet and make the most of your garage for extra storage.”
Mr. Harris said the smaller lot designs also included an outdoor area, which regularly provides homeowners with plenty of outdoor space at a small sacrifice.
“The design of the house will define the backyard space, so we can meet the client’s needs,” he said.
Mr. Rosa said the seamless indoor and outdoor communication created a sense of openness inside the home.
“Floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights are ideal when you’re on either side of a boundary wall,” he said.
“Also consider highlighting windows, glass doors, and sliding doors, as the windows help create a sense of openness and bring that beautiful natural light into the home, enhancing the indoor/outdoor connection.”
Regardless of the intent, choosing the floor plan and design that best suits your requirements is critical to ensuring that your property’s full potential is maximized and that it remains livable for the foreseeable future.
Call
Celebration Homes, 9202 2300, www.celebrationhomes.com.au
Home Buyers Center, 131551, wa.homebuyers.com.au
Shelford Quality Homes, 9599 1500, www.shelford.com.au
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