Small homes big on imagination

Building on a micro-lot is a popular choice for first homebuyers, downsizers and the budget conscious.

Shelford Quality Homes Senior Interior and Architectural Designer Rui Rosa said purchasing a narrow block appealed to those with a limited budget who sought the convenience of living in close proximity to services that made living easier.

“You can live close to cafes, restaurants, bars, schools, shops, public transport and parks without buying a high-value block of land in the city,” he said.

“Narrow blocks are becoming more attractive with a lower price point, so affordability plays a big part in the decision-making process.”

Celebration Homes Sales Manager Alistair Harris said people were also selecting smaller blocks due to the desire for less garden and upkeep.

“This maximises space for the home and the homeowner don’t need extra area for a garden,” he said.

Homebuyers Centre Display and New Product Manager John Care said most people did not want to spend the little free time they had keeping up with maintenance on their home.

“It comes down to your individual lifestyle and creating a home filled with what you really need,” he said.

For any small lot, strategic planning and careful design are two fundamentals, as every inch of potential space counts.

“Making the most of your narrow block means having a functional floor plan,” Mr Rosa said.

“It is the first step to creating or maximising space to eliminate dead or wasted areas in the home.

“One of the best ways to maximise space is to incorporate open-plan interconnecting rooms and efficient spaces.”

Mr Harris agreed, highlighting the importance of positioning and functionality for each room.

“We place minor bedrooms at the front of the floor plan to allow the master bedroom more space in the middle of the home where the width opens up beyond the garage,” he said.

Utilising high ceilings is another design trick to add volume to the interior of a small lot, according to Mr Rosa.

“High ceilings are effective in creating that illusion of having a bigger space to make a room feel lighter and uncrowded,” he said.

“Consider raking ceilings in the main living area or add a void in your two-storey design.”

With such limited room, storage can become a premium, so Mr Care said incorporating efficient storage solutions was a must.

“It’s about where you can maximise the storage opportunities you already have in your home,” he said.

“Utilise overhead cupboards in your kitchen or laundry, use your built-in linen cupboard and make the most out of your garage for extra storage.”

Mr Harris said smaller lot designs also included an alfresco area, which regularly provided homeowners a great outdoor space at a small sacrifice.

“The design of the home will determine the backyard space, so we can work to the client’s needs,” he said.

Mr Rosa said a seamless indoor/outdoor connection created a sense of openness within the home.

“Floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights are ideal when you are on either side of a boundary wall,” he said.

“Also consider highlight windows, glass doors and sliding doors, as windows help create a sense of openness and brings in that beautiful natural light to the home, solidifying the indoor/outdoor connection.”

Regardless of intention, selecting a floor plan and design that best suits your requirements is critical in ensuring you both maximise the full potential of your property and ensure it remains liveable for the foreseeable future.

CONTACT

Celebration Homes, 9202 2300, www.celebrationhomes.com.au

Homebuyers Centre, 131 751, wa.homebuyers.com.au

Shelford Quality Homes, 9599 1500, www.shelford.com.au