In this article, Kim Baldwin, Landmark Homes' Wellington franchisee, answers some common questions about hillside house plans and building on sloping sites.
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What are the advantages of opting for a sloping site over a flat one?
Building a home on a sloping site presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities that require a nuanced approach to design and construction. Landmark Homes specialises in turning these challenges into advantages. From in-depth geotechnical assessments to creative architectural solutions, every project is meticulously planned to maximise the intrinsic benefits of the terrain. And the result is often extraordinary.
Often, sloping sites offer unique advantages that flat sites may not, such as stunning elevated views, enhanced privacy, and superior natural light. These sites also allow for distinct architectural designs that can incorporate elements like expansive decks and large windows, making the most of the scenery and sunlight.
Another significant advantage is cost. “If you're buying a ready-to-build flat site in a subdivision, it could be significantly more expensive than a sloping site that others might overlook," explains Kim. “This can make sloping sites a more affordable option, allowing homeowners to invest in creative architectural solutions that maximise the unique characteristics of the terrain”.
How does Landmark Homes customise designs for sloping sites?
At Landmark Homes, customisation to suit the unique contours of a sloping site is a key aspect of our design process. "One of the benefits of our Ready to Build plan range is that they can be adjusted to maximise views and sunlight.
For example, we can move living areas from lower to upper levels or adjust window placements for optimal light and scenery." This flexibility ensures that each home is not only functional but also harmoniously integrated with its natural surroundings.
How does Landmark Homes handle the engineering challenges associated with sloping sites?
Tackling the engineering challenges of sloping sites requires expertise, experience, and innovative solutions, and Landmark Homes excels in all three. The process begins with detailed geotechnical assessments, essential for understanding the soil's stability and determining the necessary structural requirements.
"We work closely with geotechnical engineers to tailor our designs to the terrain's specific needs, from ensuring stability to controlling soil erosion," says Kim.
For construction on sites with access difficulties or where traditional methods are impractical, innovative solutions are often called for. "In areas like Wellington, where access can be challenging, we might need to bring in materials by helicopter or use cranes positioned on the street."
What should potential homeowners consider before purchasing a sloping site?
Before purchasing any site, it's important to thoroughly understand the land's complexities and potential. Involving experts like Landmark Homes early in the decision-making process can guide buyers through assessing land potential and challenges, as well as navigating local regulations.
"Landmark Homes can undertake an initial feasibility study which will outline possible costs such retaining walls and accessibility requirements which can help to provide a rough initial budget,” says Kim.
This proactive approach ensures a more informed purchase and a smoother building process.
What are your top hillside house plans for sloping sites?
Landmark Homes has a great range of plans suitable for sloping sites. Here are just a few:
Raumati
The Raumati is ideally designed for sloping sites, featuring a contemporary mono-pitch design that elegantly addresses the challenges of uneven terrain. This home boasts an expansive floor area of 186.8 m2, integrating seamless indoor-outdoor flow with access from the open-plan living and a separate lounge that opens to the outdoors – perfect for entertainment and maximising views. Clad in vertical shiplap weatherboard, the Raumati makes a bold statement with its aesthetic appeal and practical design. Explore the Raumati plan.
Edgewater
The Edgewater plan offers a split-level design that maximises site, sun, and views. The 251.3 m2 layout features a garage, entry, and study on the top level; living, dining, kitchen, and master suite on the mid-level; and additional living spaces and bedrooms on the lower level. Each level is designed with outdoor decks, enhancing the living experience. The simple yet stylish monoplane rooflines adapt to different site elevations, creating an aesthetically pleasing exterior with weatherboard cladding. Explore the Edgewater house plan.
Cardrona
Spanning 268.8 m2, the Cardrona is perfectly suited for sites that slope upwards from the access point, featuring basement garaging that elevates the living areas to enhance views. This plan offers expansive open-plan living that seamlessly connects family bedrooms to a master suite positioned to maximise scenic views. Special features include outdoor entertaining areas on large decks, sloping ceilings in the living areas and master bedroom, and eye-catching cedar cladding with stone features at the entry. Explore the Cardrona plan.
Leigh
Designed to make the most of compact sites, the Leigh embodies an ideal townhouse layout, featuring a total floor area of 207.8 m2. Thoughtfully designed to ensure maximum sunlight and warmth, the home is characterised by its large expanse of floor-to-ceiling windows. The ground floor hosts the living spaces, including a dining room that opens to a covered outdoor area, perfect for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Explore the Leigh house plan.
Nevis
Inspired by the architectural style of Central Otago, the Nevis plan is particularly suited for sloping sites, featuring a thoughtful layout of 209.7 m2. The home includes a basement garage with internal stairs leading up to single-level living spaces designed to capture stunning views. High ceilings and highlight windows enhance the spacious feel of the living areas. Additional features such as a study nook and snug offer cosy retreat spaces, making it an ideal family home. Explore the Nevis plan.
Ponui
A three-level, apartment-style home, the Ponui is ideally designed for sites with a moderate to significant slope towards road access. It spans 315.8 m2, featuring basement garaging and living areas that open onto a ground-level outdoor space at the rear, making the most of the slope. The top floor houses three spacious bedrooms, accessible through a third living space, maximising privacy and views. Its compact footprint and cubic lines offer a visually appealing and functional living space. Explore the Ponui plan.
Omokoroa
Inspired by the Hamptons coastal style, the Omokoroa design is an entertainer's dream spanning 244.5 m2. This home boasts a luxurious open plan with long, wide living, dining, and kitchen areas under high-pitched, sloping ceilings that create a light, airy atmosphere. The large floor-to-ceiling sliding doors lead to a covered portico, perfect for enjoying the views. A private retreat awaits upstairs in the master suite, featuring a spacious walk-in robe and ensuite. Explore the Omokoroa plan.
Ready to transform a challenging slope into a stunning home? We can help turn your design ideas into a dream home. Take the first step and contact your local Landmark Homes team today.
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