Home Plans For Corner Blocks

Home Plans for Corner Blocks: Optimizing Space and Enhancing Appeal

Corner blocks, with their unique position at the intersection of two streets, offer both challenges and opportunities for homeowners. They provide extra space and the potential for multiple frontages, but require careful planning to make the most of their unique layout. Whether you're building a new home or renovating an existing one, choosing the right home plan for a corner block is essential to create a functional and visually appealing residence. ### Considerations for Corner Block Home Plans: #### 1. Orientation and Privacy: Corner blocks often have two street frontages, which can result in increased visibility and potential security concerns. Consider the orientation of your home to maximize privacy and minimize exposure to passing traffic. Position the main living areas and bedrooms away from busy streets, and incorporate design elements like fences, hedges, or landscaping to create a buffer zone. #### 2. Maximizing Space: Corner blocks typically offer more space than standard rectangular lots, but careful planning is necessary to avoid creating a disjointed or cluttered layout. Utilize the extra space wisely by incorporating functional zones such as a backyard entertaining area, a side yard garden, or a spacious driveway. #### 3. Entry and Access: With two potential street frontages, deciding on the main entry point is crucial. Consider factors like traffic flow, privacy, and curb appeal. The main entrance should be easily accessible and welcoming, while secondary entrances can be used for service areas or private access. #### 4. Design and Aesthetics: Corner blocks provide an opportunity for creative and unique home designs. Architects can explore unconventional layouts, angled rooflines, and interesting window placements to create a visually striking home. Pay attention to the exterior design to ensure it complements the surrounding neighborhood and enhances the overall streetscape. #### 5. Functional Zones: Divide the corner block into distinct functional zones to optimize space and flow. Create separate areas for living, dining, sleeping, entertaining, and outdoor activities. Consider the relationship between these zones and how they interact with each other, ensuring smooth transitions and easy access. #### 6. Indoor-Outdoor Connection: Corner blocks often lend themselves to seamless indoor-outdoor connections. Incorporate large windows, sliding doors, or bi-fold doors to bring the outdoors into the living spaces. Patios, decks, or courtyards can extend the living area and create inviting outdoor retreats. ### Popular Home Plan Layouts for Corner Blocks: #### 1. L-Shaped Homes: L-shaped homes are a common choice for corner blocks, as they allow for efficient use of space and provide clear separation between public and private areas. The L-shape creates a natural courtyard or outdoor entertaining area in the center of the home. #### 2. T-Shaped Homes: T-shaped homes offer a similar layout to L-shaped homes, but with an additional wing extending from the main structure. This layout provides more space for bedrooms or other functional areas and can create interesting visual dynamics. #### 3. U-Shaped Homes: U-shaped homes wrap around a central courtyard or outdoor space, creating a sense of privacy and seclusion. This layout is ideal for families who value outdoor living and entertaining. #### 4. Corner Lot Homes: Corner lot homes are designed specifically for corner blocks and feature unique layouts that take advantage of the additional space and multiple frontages. These homes often have wraparound porches, angled rooflines, and creative window arrangements that maximize natural light and views. #### 5. Split-Level Homes: Split-level homes can work well on corner blocks with sloping terrain. They offer multiple levels of living space, with different areas connected by stairs. This layout can help create a sense of separation between public and private spaces. ### Conclusion: Home plans for corner blocks require careful consideration of space, orientation, privacy, and design aesthetics. By understanding the unique opportunities and challenges of corner blocks, homeowners and architects can create functional and visually appealing residences that optimize space and enhance curb appeal.