If you're looking to purchase a sloping block of land or perhaps recently bought one, you would know that a sloping block is generally less expensive than a flat block of land. This is because the techniques to build a split level house are far more complex than a standard build. However, what you save in the sloping block land purchase can often be used to create a more unique and interesting home.
When approached and developed appropriately, a sloping block can provide maximum return when it's time to sell it. Typically homes situated above sea level (i.e. sloping sites) tend to sell above the average house price versus homes that are less elevated, therefore delivering a greater return overtime.
Working with the sloping site
With over 30 years' experience as the 'sloping site specialists', our team of experts understand how important it is to work with a sloping site.
Split level homes are the most elegant solution to building a home on a sloping block. Look carefully at any well-built split level home and you'll begin to appreciate what a dramatic impact this design technique delivers. You'll see how raising or lowering parts of the floor dramatically improves the way split level homes sit on the sloping block.
Houses built on a slope distinguish themselves with their wonderful views, flatter driveways, abundant light, natural ventilation, and the added bonus of separate living areas on different levels.
Different types of sloping blocks
The secret to building on a steep block is to go with the slope. Whether your block slopes downhill, uphill or sideways, your home design should complement the unique shape and slope of your land.
The following sloping designs have distinguishing features which have been specifically crafted to help maximise the varying type of slopes:
If your block slopes down from the road, it might be more appropriate to build a split level house positioning living areas on multiple levels, and the main entertaining areas on the upper floor. A back deck would be best placed on the lower or upper floor to take in the natural beauty of your backyard and any potential landscapes; perfect for year round entertaining.
If your block slopes up from the road, more often than not the best solution will be to have the garage on the lower level of the home, and position main entertaining areas on the mid and upper floors. The upper floor opens to an enchanting covered deck to overlook your potential views.
If your block slopes sideways, the best solution may be to place the garage on the lower floor and position main entertaining areas on the mid or upper floor. If you have views to maximise, consider adding a deck to the side or back of the home.
Talk to your home builder about what kind of split level design will suit your blocks' natural sloping features.
There are many benefits of working with a sloping site, which include:
1. Multiple Living Areas
Sloping home designs offer unique opportunities, such as the ability to spread living areas across multiple levels. Our popular Carolina 1 downhill design combines privacy and versatility, with the family room located on the upper floor, a theatre room on the mid floor and rumpus on the lower floor, adjacent to Bed 1, 2 and 3.
2. Higher Ceilings
Putting a step in a home creates the opportunity for higher ceilings in a living area or entry way. This is usually a highly sought after upgrade, so you're not only saving thousands of dollars on retaining walls and excavation costs, you're also receiving the benefits of high ceilings and a more customised home.
3. Less Costs after Handover
Building a split level home on a sloping site will ensure you have less costs after handover, like those nasty large retaining walls.
4. Better Views
Another benefit of a sloping site is the potential to achieve stunning views or landscapes surrounding you. Montgomery Homes will work with the orientation of your land to ensure you not only have wonderful views, but natural lighting is always maximised in your new home. Outlook and natural light is always considered first when a Montgomery Homes split level home is designed.
Introducing a balcony or deck to your split level home will ensure you never get tired of your outlook.
Choose the right sloping site builder
Generally anything with a slope greater than 2 metres across the building site will require a specialised sloping builder. The key is to find a builder that thrives on the challenge of a sloping site and who has proven expertise in this area. As a the sloping site specialists, Montgomery Homes is often sought after in Sydney, The Central Coast and Newcastle because of our extensive 30 year experience and passion for providing solutions for clients.
To learn more about the benefits of building on a sloping block, contact us today.
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