Narrow Site Design Tips - Maximising Small Site Potential
Struggling to maximize the potential of your narrow site? Wondering how to transform a small space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area? Discover architectural strategies that not only improve the aesthetic appeal but also significantly boost the value of your property. From smart site orientation to creative storage solutions, learn how to make the most of every square inch.
6 min read
Are you are a homeowner who has secured a spot in your dream location and aims to infuse both love and aesthetics into a narrow site? Or, perhaps you are a property developer on the quest to amplify profits through proficient space utilization and the creation of aesthetically pleasing, well-designed residences within a single lot? Or, maybe you are a homeowner scouting for renovation tips to extract the utmost potential from a limited space?
Whatever your situation is, this article serves as your comprehensive guide.
What's the Constraint?
Small sites, typically narrow with minimal street frontage, are often elongated as the street frontage is a valuable asset. These sites pose two distinct challenges:
Emotional: The house may feel small, tight, and cramped, often being darker and closer to neighbours.
Physical: Reduced airflow can lead to damp and mouldy conditions, potentially causing discomfort and, in the worst-case scenario, health issues.
To navigate these challenges, your design should focus on tackling these two problems head-on.
Here, are the Six Tested and Commonly used Design Tips:
1. Site Orientation
In some locales, the luxury of choosing your site orientation might not be an option. If you stumble upon a site in that perfect suburb at a reasonable price, don't hesitate to grab it.
If you are considering a site in a newly developed suburb where you have the flexibility to choose without a hefty price tag, select a site that accesses the street from the south side. If that's not available, select east or west access points are your next best bet.
Your garage will predominantly face the street. If the road access is from the north, it implies your garage will consume the valuable northern daylight. This will limit sunlight to habitable rooms such as the living area, dining space, or bedrooms.
2. Internal Courtyard
At first glance, an internal courtyard might seem like a space-consuming element, especially when the goal is to maximize every square inch for family utility.
However, internal courtyards can be a game-changer. It not only brings light and ventilation into adjacent rooms but also serves as a personal oasis where you can enjoy a serene cup of coffee, shielded from the gusty winds.
Moreover, it offers windows for the wet rooms like a bathrooms, allowing spaces for clothesline. This will mitigate dampness and mould issues, a common concern in narrow site architectural design.
A small 1.2m x 3m internal courtyard will get you 3 rooms fill with light. This means 3 smaller, but high quality rooms; instead of 3 large, but dark and damp rooms.
3. Skylight
If integrating an internal courtyard is not a viable option, consider installing skylights to illuminate your rooms naturally. However, bear in mind two crucial aspects:
Skylights cannot be installed in rooms with another floor above.
If your roof has a slope less than 7 degrees, consult with your architect to devise a construction detail that directs rainwater away from the skylight, minimizing the risk of water leaks and ensuring efficient space utilization in narrow sites.
4. Ceiling Height
Opting for a ceiling height greater than the standard 2.4m can be a wise investment. A few extra thousand dollars can secure you a ceiling height of 2.55m or even 2.7m, if possible.
This not only makes the living, dining, and other communal spaces feel more expansive and brighter but also facilitates better airflow, a vital aspect in profitable small site development.
Moreover, in bedrooms, a higher ceiling can accommodate bunk beds, a fun and space-saving choice for kids' rooms, allowing for additional furniture like a study desk or a sofa bed.
5. Storage
A well-organized home feels more spacious and comfortable, a crucial aspect when considering small site renovation tips. To achieve this, integrate easy-to-access storage spaces to keep things organized effortlessly. Here are some storage ideas to consider:
Incorporate small cabinets and cupboards to store away small or frequently used items.
Utilize built-in shelving, under-bed storage, and hanging organizers to maximize space.
Consider building a large shed in the backyard, possibly even two or three, to store both small and large items easily. Ensure these sheds are easily accessible and equipped with shelves for organized storage.
If you plan to use the roof for storage, design it with a slope of 30 degrees or steeper, instead of the standard 22 degrees. Install an attic ladder for easy access and lay yellow tongue floor boards on the truss to protect the ceiling insulation and other equipment in the ceiling.
Retrieving stored items is as important as storing them away. Label your boxes and shelves, so you can find stored items easily. You may want to build a whiteboard in allowing you easy wipe and on the wall, recording what you store in the shed and the roof. This will help you find the item when you need it.
6. Space Hierarchy
Different families have diverse preferences and needs, especially when it comes to designing a home on a narrow site. Some homeowners fancy a master bedroom that offers a splendid street view, while others prioritize a communal sitting room that fosters gathering and sharing of views. Tailoring designs to meet these varied needs is our forte.
In the digital era, face-to-face communication within families has dwindled, largely owing to the pervasive influence of cell phones and social media. To counteract this, we propose a space hierarchy that nurtures family interaction, where children can safely browse Instagram or TikTok while congregated around the kitchen island bench, instead of isolating themselves in their bedrooms.
If fostering direct communication is a priority for you, we recommend dedicating the prime views, orientation, and space to the living room and the kitchen island bench.
This not only encourages interaction but also optimizes the utilization of space, a vital aspect in narrow site architectural design. Additionally, consider incorporating a cozy sitting room on the upper floor, equipped with gaming consoles or other recreational amenities, fostering a communal spirit.
In the quest to maximize small site potential, it's prudent to reconsider the dimensions of bedrooms, bathrooms, and garages, which often serve as personal retreats or "cocoons". Minimizing these spaces can be a strategic move, especially if your site restricts the total house area or if you aim to maximize your return on every dollar invested in your property development venture.
Solution to some common challenges
If your home is already constructed, fret not. Here are some innovative ideas to retrofit your space, enhancing its appeal and functionality:
a) Multi-purpose Furniture: Swap traditional furniture pieces with multi-functional alternatives. For instance, opt for a dining table that can be folded and stowed away when not in use, or a sofa bed that serves dual purposes, maximizing the efficient space utilization in narrow sites.
b) Optimal Colour Palette: Choosing the right colour palette can significantly influence the perception of space. Light, neutral hues create an open, airy ambiance, as opposed to dark tones that tend to make a room feel confined. Employ light colours generously on walls, floors, and ceilings to reflect light and foster the illusion of a more expansive space.
c) Utilizing Mirrors: Incorporate mirrors strategically to create a sense of expanded space. Mirrors not only reflect light but can also make a room appear larger. Installing a large mirror opposite a window, for instance, can amplify the openness and airiness of a small room, a vital tip in small site renovation.
Still Stuck?
If you find yourself at a creative impasse, seeking inspiration from Japanese architecture can be a fruitful endeavor. Renowned for their innovative approaches to maximizing small site potential, Japanese designs can offer a plethora of ideas to enhance your space.
Feel free to explore Pinterest for Japanese architectural inspirations.
Check out some of these links from Pinterest:
10 Tips for Decorating a Japanese Style Tiny House
Call or ask us a question if you want to learn more about your project.
Disclaimer: We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions. The information is for general purposes only with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness. You must engage a suitable consultant for your specific situation.