ᐅ Planning the Location of the House and Garage Within the Building Envelope *Preliminary Planning*

Hello everyone,

I have been following the forum for quite some time now and am gradually approaching the “house building” project step by step, trying to learn as much as possible in advance.

Thanks to the many experts here, this has truly been an enjoyable experience in the way the community contributes. (end of flattery mode) 🙂

As I already mentioned in my first major thread, we are currently working on preliminary planning and considering the house design and its orientation on the plot, even before our first meetings with potential builders.

Taking several factors into account regarding the plot, such as price and an undeveloped east-facing location (sloping gently down to the east), we found a micro-location that we really like. We weren’t able to get our ideal size, but with 770m² (8300 sq ft), I think it’s more than sufficient. The main advantage for us is that the land can be fully paid for from our own funds, so until construction starts in early 2018, we will continue saving equity and paying off any remaining debts.

Source: Excerpts from the development plan / self-created images

A building permit inquiry (building permit / planning permission) has already been submitted regarding the desired architectural style, and I have received approval to expand the building envelope up to 8 meters (26 feet) along the eastern boundary.

At the moment, we are leaning toward a rather classic city villa style (2 full floors with a hipped roof at 25° and a double garage).

Source: Weberhaus

Based on the budget we have personally set, we are initially planning without a basement. If it turns out to be feasible later on, we can still include it.

We have already visited model homes that appealed to us in terms of external design and even traveled from Bavaria to the Rhineland, and from there to Wuppertal for inspiration.

Right now, before the first planning meetings, we want to focus on finding the best possible orientation for the house and garage on the property, for example:

Source: Excerpts from the development plan

For me, one thing is already decided: the staircase, which I want to have exactly like this due to the fantastic light conditions. It captivated me at first sight.

Source: Weberhaus

Furthermore, we want to keep as much space as possible on the west and south sides to create what I consider an ideal sunny aspect and garden atmosphere.

This is also the tricky part, as the arrangement between house and garage is causing us some headaches.

Many questions arise, such as whether the garage should be placed in front of the house to free up more space on the south side, or rather beside the house (which would include a covered entrance area). A passage from the garage directly into the house is also under consideration. Or should the main entrance be on the west side instead, which might mean it would be uncovered?

Source for covered entrance: Weberhaus

I will post further key data throughout the thread as needed, in case I have forgotten anything important.

However, these points above need to be clarified first before we can continue planning the positioning of the dining, living, and kitchen areas, etc. (Of course, with a preference for south/west orientation).

I would appreciate any information and lively discussions.

Best regards, Andreas, and thank you in advance!