Why less can be more when it comes to block size
As home prices continue to increase, block sizes are getting smaller, often through urban infill opportunities and rezoning for dual occupancies.
These offer tremendous opportunities to revitalise older suburbs and provide home buyers with custom-designed, low-maintenance homes packed with luxuries.
Tom Wiggins of Hive Property, who lists this week’s Curtin feature property, says that particular home proves what can be achieved on a smaller block without any compromises.
“The Parker Street is the result of considerable thought from the outside in,” he says. “The planning, the proportions, the choices of materials, fixtures and finishes have all been carefully chosen to work together.”
Wiggins says the result delivers a bespoke approach to lifestyle.
“This Curtin home really demonstrates that block size is no obstacle in delivering a home that has it all,” he adds. “Space, amenity and luxury – it’s all there and executed perfectly.”
Bree Currall of Belle Property Canberra says block sizes have been shrinking for some time.
“Obviously, you see it in the new land releases and in many of the more recently established suburbs,” she says. “But there’s certainly infill opportunities occurring in those more central and sought-after areas like the Inner South.”
Currall says buyer priorities have shifted with the emphasis on maximising time spent with family, friends, or just relaxing.
“People are less inclined toward the maintenance of gardens on big blocks and are more focused on creating a home with all the comforts,” she says.
Less is more
Bang for your buck
Smaller blocks are often more affordable, freeing up the budget for home design. A compact plot doesn’t mean compromise if it’s complemented by smart home design that maximises available space.
Ups and downs
A second storey is guaranteed to increase the square metres. That could also deliver views and inform where the living area should go. Basement garaging would maximise block potential.
Eye for detail
Get clever with home design on smaller lots and focus on details that deliver a luxury feel through the selection of fixtures, fittings, finishes and furnishings.
Feature property
This Curtin house has some good-looking curves that give it a cool, retro vibe.
Inside, that motif continues in the design and through selected fittings and furnishings.
That’s a good start that continues through a clever floor plan that powerfully demonstrates what can be achieved on a compact 339-square-metre block – that’s nearly 230 square metres under the roof.
The home is delivered over two levels: living on one and sleeping on the other. An unmissable feature of the living zone is the benefit it gets from a two-storey void.
Its effect is magnified by floor-to-ceiling glazing on the upper level. That turns the void into an absolute light magnet, drawing it in and distributing it into every nook and cranny throughout both levels.
Other living area highlights include custom joinery, ash blonde timber flooring, double-glazed windows, and sliding doors.
The sleek kitchen offers marble benchtops, a white Onyx splashback, and plenty of storage. Appliances include Miele ovens, a Bosch dishwasher and a Fisher & Paykel fridge.
Upstairs, the main bedroom suite includes a walk-in wardrobe and en suite with a free-standing bath. The other bedrooms offer a built-in and a walk-in wardrobe. A fourth space could also operate as a multi-purpose room or extra bedroom.
The al fresco area features a kitchen with a bar fridge and barbecue. However, the undoubted star is a heated plunge pool with spa functions. Of course, it’s splendidly curved.
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