If you are looking to build a new home on your existing residential lot, speaking with a custom home builder is your best course of action. While searching online for designs which you love is a great starting point, it is only by taking in the dimensions and topography of the lot that you can really visualize your new home.
Smaller lots – between 6,000 and 10,000 square feet – are very common in many Sarasota communities, especially in downtown neighborhoods and by the beaches. These areas are highly desirable, and a wonderful place to build your home. But having a small residential lot does not mean you cannot dream big in regards form, function and beauty!
Designing for a Small Lot
- Go Up:The townhome concept is a great way to utilize a small space, adding square footage by adding more floors. Loft spaces and rooftop patios allow you to maximize your space in a contemporary and trendy way, putting the emphasis on the modern design over the small space. If the thought of too many stairs worries you, put the master or guest bedroom on the ground floor – or consider adding an elevator. Many newer homes are incorporating this feature to not only whisk them easily from laundry room to bedroom closet, but to prepare for the future when navigating steps may be an issue. If you need a garage, make it your first floor – which is also a great feature to prevent against flooding in the case of a major storm event. Another added bonus of a tall home – great views of your neighborhood.
- Open it Up: Open living spaces are all the rage in Sarasota and Longboat Key, but they are especially advantageous when you need to design a home for small residential lot. Free flowing space which can be shared and utilized for many purposes allows you to feel less boxed in, and provides a feeling of spaciousness which belies the square footage. Soaring ceilings, catwalks around the second floor, two story fireplaces, and loft spaces all add the illusion of ample roominess. A design idea we love? Create a straight, clear path from front door to your backyard views – eliminating a boxy, closed in feel and expanding your wow factor as soon as the door is opened.
- Let the Light In: Floor to ceiling windows, pocketing slider doors, and skylights will open up your space considerably. Because we enjoy such gorgeous weather throughout much of the year, disappearing sliding doors out to a small patio adds more living space, and instantly increases square footage. Wide open views prevent a feeling of smallness, and allow you to enjoy your entire yard while still indoors.
- Create an Oasis: While it may seem counter intuitive, fencing in your small yard and enclosing your space is an amazing design strategy. Once fenced, you can create beautiful gardens, patios, and private spaces – which often become a homeowners favorite place to relax and enjoy their cozy, secluded sanctuary. Because a small lot often means very close neighbors, designing a private backyard allows you to shut out the world and extend the comfort of home to the entire yard.
Designing for small residential lots does not mean you have to be cramped or crowded – it simply requires an eye for the creative. This is where a custom builder can shine – we can take into account your lot dimensions, accommodate your needs for your family, and make recommendations as to design strategies sure to make your house a home. Not only that, but we are well versed in local zoning laws, building codes, and every aspect of new construction homes. If you have a lot and are looking to build the perfect home, call the professionals at Lindahl Construction.