As plots of land in urban areas become less available, aspiring homeowners are taking a closer look at designs of homes they can build on narrow lots.
The world appears to be getting ‘smaller’ as the population increases rapidly and the demand for smaller and more compact homes is on the rise. This is the era of downsized living.
As the demand for lots increase, many people desirous of building their own home within, or close to urban areas, don’t have much of a choice than opting for small or narrow lots to build smaller and more compact homes. If you must have larger homes with spacious outdoors, the alternative is to move out of the city to the suburbs. Otherwise, if you are a country-life enthusiast, you can build your home in the countryside far away from the city.
Homes built on narrow lots are not the easiest of structures to design. If you want an architectural masterpiece, it can only be achieved through a thoughtful design process. Because such a design calls for optimum use of space, the design concept must be near perfect in order to achieve a design that is both pleasing and extremely efficient.
The main challenge in planning and designing a narrow residential building lies in turning a tightly restricted space into an architectural wonder by creating a design that maximizes space in a very imaginative, efficient, and versatile way.
Available Style Options for Narrow Homes
If a narrow residential structure is carefully designed, though it may be a home peculiar in size and shape, it can turn out to be a beautiful and stylish design that can offer what any luxury home design can. Building challenges that are not evident in larger homes built on large expanses of land can be overcome if intending homeowners opt for house plans designed specifically for narrow lots.
There are many style options of architectural designs of homes built on narrow plots. Though many prospective homeowners opt for modern sustainable home designs, narrow homes can still be inspired by any of the following traditional architectural styles:
- Colonial
- Craftsman
- Country
- Cottage
- Tuscan
Photo by MHK Architecture & Planning
How to Use the Plot Efficiently
The best and most efficient way to successfully work with narrow plots of land is often by building the structure vertically. There won’t be enough space for outward building horizontally. Vertical structures will give the space and features desired “without an expansive footprint”.
The architectural design must be based on a narrow shape that can be creatively structured to follow the lot’s configuration. The structure’s facade must have a visual openness with less concrete and/or timber and more glass and open screening.
The interior design of narrow homes will work best if they have open interior spaces that seamlessly flow into each other. They should also have the following features:
- Split-levels
- Void spaces
- Double volume ceilings
- Sloping skylights
- A minimum of 2 storeys
- Wide and long windows
- Roof terrace garden
Where to Find Blueprints for Odd-Shaped and Narrow Lots
If you have a narrow plot or an odd-shaped piece of land, you can research and shop around online for affordable architectural designs and blueprints for unusual-shaped structures. If you can afford to, you can employ the services of an architect or consult with one.
You, however, have the choice to purchase books and packages that contain the biggest collection of designs for small space living. This book – Narrow-Lot Home Plans: 250 Designs for Houses 17′ to 50′ Wide – has a great selection of styles to fit any lot or building site no matter how small, narrow, or unique it may be. You can purchase them new or as used books in great condition.
With the over 200 available architectural design options, you can be certain that you will find one that is just right for your lot size, needs, and lifestyle.
Further Reading:
- Building Small Homes with Shipping Containers – Downsized Living Trend
- A-Frame Home
- Tips for First Time Home Builders – Know This Before You Build