Location, location, location. It’s an age-old adage but one that remains true to this day. Once you’ve purchased your lot, it’s time to decide where to site your house — a decision that will impact your daily life for years to come. So, what factors do you need to consider when you’re looking for the best spot to build a house? ADŌR Bespoke Homes has a few ideas to help you make the right decision.
Get to Know Your Lot
Before picking your home site, walk your plot in its entirety a couple of times. Think about the views you’d like to enjoy, and how they look at different times of the day. How much privacy do you have in certain parts of your lot and how can that influence your home’s design? Take the time to connect with your lot and all the options that it has to offer.
Where is the Water Flowing?
The best spot to build a house is where water is the least likely to cause any issues. If your site includes water features (ponds, marshes, streams) choose a section that is elevated and where water is moving away. Try to stay in tune with natural drainage patterns — it’s easier to work with nature then to try and fight against it!
How is the Sun Moving?
Visit your site at different times of the day so you can get a sense of how the sun’s movement will affect your home. Taking advantage of the sun helps naturally heat your home, but too much sun can require additional cooling. Knowing where the sun will shine in your new home can influence where you decide to build your house.
Test the Soil
Knowing a bit about your surrounding soil can also help you prepare for picking your home site. Land with no exposed ground rock is easier to build upon, while rockier or very sloped terrain can be more expensive and challenging. On the contrary, flat ground can make it harder to move water away from your home, meaning that you’ll need to prioritize proper drainage.
If possible, the best compromise is a slight slope. That allows easier drainage and the potential for basement windows or even doors, which can add additional space and comfort to your new home.
If you’re not sure about your plot’s soil, ADŌR can help you schedule a soil boring test to determine the geotechnical qualities so you know what to prepare for.
A Place to Age Gracefully
As you pick your home site, think about your future self. Is this spot adaptable for life’s changes or will it present challenges down the road? Is there room to expand, if you choose to do so? Keeping an eye on the future will help you establish a home that’s around for generations.
Call an Expert
Before you decide where to build your house, contact your builder and architect. They’ll help you see the whole picture and make the best possible decision for your new home.
Find the Best Spot to Build Your Home
When you’re looking to build your dream home, ADŌR Bespoke Homes is here to make your vision come true. Whether you have questions about where to site your house or want to discuss building your very own bespoke home, we’re just a message away.