7 good reasons to build on an irregular home block

It’s true that Melbourne blocks are getting narrower. The average suburban block used to be 14 metres wide just a few years ago. Today, it is nearly 12.5 metres in the city’s main suburbs.

However, building on a narrow block doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the beauty and functionality of your dream home. In fact, constructing on a narrow or irregular lot creates unique opportunities for both homeowners and irregular block builders.

Here are the top reasons why it’s a good idea to build on an irregular block and to opt for irregular block home designs:

1. Cheap cost

Irregularly shaped lots are usually more affordable than regularly shaped lots. They are often larger than rectangular blocks. This allows you more budget for the home construction and the upgrades you require. You can avoid unnecessary building costs by carefully examining the characteristics of your land before designing.

2. Efficient land utilisation

A narrow or irregular block can be used more efficiently.  For instance, you can take advantage of larger outdoor backyard areas for a swimming pool or spa. Also, you can use the available land by potentially optimising the layout of your home.

3. Enhanced privacy

The irregular shape is great if you wish to create a more secluded and private living space. This makes more sense when the irregular block has landscaping features like hills or trees. It may result in more privacy with no neighbouring house to overshadow your home.

4. Unique design opportunities

Irregular block home designs often allow for more creative architectural designs, making your home stand out from the typical home designs. You can achieve that “wow factor” by designing a truly unique home that you will really love to live in and show off to your guests.

5. Better resale value

One of the unique features of irregular block designs is the high resale value that they can add to your property. Since homes built on irregularly shaped blocks can’t be directly compared to any other mass-produced homes, these homes tend to be unique and more valuable.

6. Maximised views

Irregularly shaped blocks offer better opportunities to capture the picturesque views of the surrounding area. You can design a wider frontage that looks larger than what it actually is. Also, building on an irregular block may allow for better integration with the natural environment, helping you preserve existing slopes and other features.

7. Minimised wasted space

When you design your home to suit an irregular or narrow lot, it is possible to accentuate every aspect of the irregular block home design and to minimise any wasted space. For instance, you can achieve more onsite parking or onsite space for storage of your trailer, boat, etc.

The bottom line

No matter how narrow or irregular your block is, you can always build the house of your dreams at no extra cost. It's important to note that building on an irregular block also comes with potential challenges, such as the need for specialised design and engineering solutions. The secret to success is to turn your site’s limitations into design innovations with the help of an experienced irregular block builder.