Home Plans for Small Lots: House Plans for Narrow Lots

Online, March 29, 2014 (Newswire.com) - People buy small lots for a number of reasons including an economic savings, the desire to live in a specific location, or a desire to live green, just to name a few. A small lot line requires a special use of efficiency from the house plans designer but it does not have to mean less space[/url]. If you have purchased a small lot you'll be happy to know that you don't have to sacrifice style for square footage.

Small lot house plans are also referred to as shotgun house plans, and narrow lot house plans. Home plans for small or narrow lots are typically designed to fit a lot 50 feet wide or less. The zoning laws in your area will help to determine how wide our house is allowed to be and how much room needs to be allowed between the side of the house and the edge of the lot.

House plans for small and narrow lots are typically 40 feet wide or less and extend as deep as 85 feet. To maintain your square footage on a small lot you might want to build a home that is two stories high or taller. Building up instead of out is more economical because you are able to fit more house on the same amount of foundation and roofing which saves on those expenses.

Another option of house design for a small or narrow lot is to choose a house that is wide but not very deep and turn it to the side. A house with nice windows on the side and a nice roofline will help to add curb appeal for the new 'front' of the house.

To help with the visual appeal of a narrow house landscaping is very important. A good landscaping job can help to soften the look of a narrow house with more dimensions and gives it a warmer appearance.

A challenge to small lots is the garage placement. A garage on the back of the house can help the appearance of the front. If a back entrance garage is not an option then a garage on the front of the house can be used and special attention needs to be given to the design of the garage door.

The design of a home on a narrow lot is just as important if not more important than a traditional home on a standard sized lot. Efficiency is important as every space in the house needs to be used to its full potential.

Small lot homes are not bland or common; on the contrary they are absolutely capable of being unique, modern, or traditional. A narrow lot home can be your dream home.