Building on an Irregular lot
Finding a piece of property to build a house can seem like a daunting task. Most people see building on an irregular-shaped lot; one that might have a steep slope or a narrow strip of land and see it as a problem. But for the right client and designer, an irregular lot is actually an amazing opportunity.
If you’re looking at a piece of land that seems atypical, here is how you turn those constraints into a masterpiece:
1. Let the Land Dictate the Layout
When you have a standard rectangular lot, you can drop a cookie-cutter plan onto it. On an irregular lot, you can’t. This forces you to think outside the box and actually build something that is unique and custom.
In the end, you will end up with a home that feels organic to its environment, featuring unique angles, unexpected courtyards, and views that a standard lot could never capture.
2. Understand the Setbacks
Municipalities have setbacks that set the distance that your house must be from the property line. On an irregular lot, these lines can create a very small buildable envelope.
Before you buy, map out the actual buildable area using surveyor information. You might find you have plenty of room, or you might find you need to build up instead of out.
3. Embrace the Problem Features
- Slopes: Perfect for a walk-out basement or a tiered garden.
- Acute Angles: These are the ideal spots for built-in window seats or a unique home office.
- Narrow Points: Use these for transitional spaces like breezeways or mudrooms.
Creating the Winning Plan
Building on an irregular lot can seem daunting, but it provides an opportunity to build something absolutely stunning. It requires a bit more patience during the due diligence phase and a creative designer, but the ROI in terms of character and wow factor is unmatched. Don’t quickly write off any unique plots of land, you might be writing off getting a great deal for a piece of land that has the opportunity of a lifetime to build an architectural masterpiece.
