Many first-time home builders and buyers are hesitant to build on a sloping block. Potentially higher costs, limited build options, strange configurations – it’s no wonder why sloping blocks are seen as a challenge. And it doesn’t stop there. Those tossing up between a renovation and full knockdown and rebuild may also be tempted to assume that renovating would be easier, however this doesn’t account for the additional measures that may need to be taken to stop mould and dampness that are common on poorly designed sloping blocks.
The good news is that building on a slope doesn’t need to be an uphill battle. With the correct planning, expertise and creativity, building on an un-level site opens up a whole new world of stunning architectural design, proximity to nature and, ultimately, a show-stopping new home. As you’ll see in the following write up, at Icon Homes we’re experts in building on a sloping block.
What is a sloping block?
Put simply; a sloping block is a block of land which lies at an incline. The gradient of your slope can vary, and there are different kinds of sloping blocks:
- Upwards slope: Lowest point at the street
- Downwards slope: Highest point at the street
- Crossfall: Slopes from left to right or vice versa
- Crossfall and slope: A combination of these
Whichever category your block fits under, building on an incline poses logistical challenges, which can increase both budgets and headaches when not properly planned for.
On the plus side, sloping blocks are often cost-efficient and come with loads of unique benefits:
- Natural light and ventilation
- Proximity to nature and natural surroundings
- Breathtaking views
- Innovative house design
With the right design and building team, a house on a sloping block can be a stunning piece of design working in harmony with nature.
Sloping block solutions
Building on an incline sounds challenging, but there are ways to keep your build effective and cost-efficient without sacrificing design.
1. Choose your builder carefully
Building on an incline requires exceptional skill and expertise and is best done with a custom design. It’s essential to choose your builder carefully and, from the outset, keep lines of communication open.
Here at Icon Homes, we love the opportunities that come with building on sloping blocks and have years of experience under our belts. If you want to maximise your block and celebrate the surrounding landscape, speak with one of our talented team members today.
2. Work with your block, not against it
A sloping block is an exciting opportunity to find creative ways to maximise indoor space by working with your surroundings.
A home that integrates with the landscape rather than fighting it achieves a more cost-efficient build by removing the need for extensive excavation, potentially the most significant drain on your budget. The striking Seaforth 4, for example, works beautifully with a sloped block, utilising an under garage to create more living space while capturing natural light and stunning views.
3. Consider split level homes
Split level homes are a cost-effective and sustainable solution for building on an uneven site, with multiple levels of the house following the land’s curves rather than cutting into it. Specifically designed for sloping blocks, the Manly Vale 2 works with the natural landscape across different levels, creating special pockets of living space.
While designing a split-level home may be costly, it’s an excellent way to offset site works and excavation costs and maximise your block’s potential.
What’s the cost of building on a sloping block?
While building on a sloping block can be a little more costly, it’s not all bad news. Unlevelled blocks usually sit at a lower price point, and with a well-thought-through design and build process, costs can easily even out.
Budgets vary, but when it comes to building on an incline, the key to keeping costs down lies in the design. Choosing a design that works with your block will save on excavation, foundation work, and retaining walls.
Other factors which may impact costs include:
- Access: Sloping blocks make it challenging for machinery to access the site, leading to increased building and labour costs.
- Materials: Specific building materials are needed to build split-level homes or homes on stilts.
- Landscaping and retaining walls: Depending on your block, retaining walls may be needed. This, plus any other soil issues like erosion, will add costs.
Icon Homes house plans for sloping blocks Australia and Northern Beaches
At Icon Homes, we love incorporating clever designs into our builds that maximise the land’s natural slope while creating unique and comfortable living spaces. The Dee Why 1 has been specially designed to celebrate the Northern Beaches. Using the slope of the land to create height, this light, bright and airy home works in harmony with its surroundings.
Wondering how to create your dream home on a slope? Looking for custom design ideas? We are your experts. Contact Teayre, from our team today to learn more about our home designs and how we can help you maximise your block and home.
