ᐅ House orientation – How should we position the house?

Created on: 10 Feb 2014 01:39
J
jemras
Hello!
We are currently facing the difficult decision of how to orient our house. We now have two preferred options (see images).
The plot is a sloped site with a slight downhill gradient towards the south.
On the opposite side of the street, there are further building plots both to the south and to the west.
For me, option 1 with the terrace facing south is more attractive (among other things because of the view). However, I wonder if the hidden entrance on the north side and the "long" path to reach it might be somewhat unusual.
I would really appreciate opinions and advice.
Best regards

Option 1


Option 2


Floor plan of a new building plot with carport, terrace and driveway to the street


Floor plan of a plot with house, terrace and carport in a new development area
K
klblb
10 Feb 2014 13:46
Why is it not possible to drive into the carport from the west side in option 1? There is a road there as well.
W
wadenkneifer
10 Feb 2014 14:02
Hello,
I’ve reviewed your site plan a few times now.
- I’m not very fond of option 1 because of the path to the door having to go "all the way around the house."
- Option 2: Here, your carport is noticeably narrower and blocks the bathroom window. Also not ideal.
- There is no dining area planned in the kitchen?

An idea to consider:
- A 6x6 meter (20x20 feet) carport at the south corner (align the south edge of the carport with the 3-meter (10 feet) line and, if allowed, extend left to the 1-meter (3 feet) line). The path to the front door would then pass to the right of the carport, with the entrance on the east side.
- Move the house one meter (3 feet) further east.
- A terrace wrapping around the corner: starting from the double door heading south and then extending roughly to the window (L-shaped).

Also, I would suggest thinking about the following points based on the orientation of the house in option 2:
- Omit the living room door on the north side
- Add a living room door on the south side and make the kitchen door double-leafed (to catch the sun from the south)
- In the living room’s west wall, make both doors double-leafed (or even larger).

Best regards,
Michael
J
jemras
11 Feb 2014 02:00
Thank you very much for all the tips. We will take them into account in our planning.
I’m still new to this forum. It’s really amazing how many things you have to consider when building a house 😉
Best regards