The traps of building small: What you need to know
When contemplating the design and construction of a second dwelling on a property, or even a small house on a large parcel of land, many fall into the trap of believing that all small homes are easy to design, super quick and cheap to construct.
This misconception can lead to a range of challenges and pitfalls. It's important to understand that small-scale home construction, while seemingly straightforward, involves a level of complexity and attention to detail that rivals larger projects. Here's an expanded look at the traps of building small and why expertise matters.
Misconception 1: Small means easy to design
Functional small house design still requires the design of rooms such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry’s and often requires more consideration to maximize the use of limited space efficiently and effectively. Internal and external spaces need to be carefully planned to ensure functionality and comfort without compromising on aesthetics.
Small homes and second dwellings must still comply with the regulations and standards including engineering and certification requirements. Site-specific factors such as sloping blocks, bushfire, flood zones and other local planning overlays can significantly impact the design and materials.
Misconception 2: Small means quicker planning & construction timeframes
One of the most common misconceptions is that building a small house is significantly quicker than constructing a larger home as its assumed fewer materials and a smaller footprint automatically translate to less work and complexity.
While they are quicker to construct, to comply with council planning regulations you will require a site survey, engineering, energy efficiency and other site assessments for your property. It takes time to produce site specific plans and submit these to the relevant consultants for approval.
Small houses constructed onsite, even with modular components still require coordination of the relevant trades from builders, plumbers, electricians and cabinet makers onsite, so while quicker to construct than a traditional house, a quality build still requires build times of 3 - 4 months, not weeks.
Misconception 3: Small means cheap
Yes, a smaller home has a smaller footprint and so will typically cost less than a larger built home, however construction costs have increased for all types of construction including tiny or modular designs. If you want a dwelling constructed by a reputable and resilient company, you will need to pay the market value. Also, construction costs will largely depend on your site (sloping, access) and the external works required, for example retaining walls, connection to services, driveways, pools, carports, sheds, earthworks etc.
It is important people do their research when investigating the many tiny home and small home construction designs on the market. Do these comply with the council requirements for your property, and are you wanting a temporary or permanent dwelling structure? If you want a permanent structure to add capital gains to your property you need to ensure the design and housing solution you invest in will meet engineering and certification requirements. You may still be investing $100,000 + for a quality built 15sqm tiny home, when a permanent structure of 50sqm may cost you $200,000 - $250,000 to construct in the current market.
Beware of granny flat companies advertising super cheap construction rates. Under quoting has led to construction companies going bust and what inclusions, materials, build quality are you getting for this price? Is this the cost for the finished home?
Comprehensive Services from BAAHOUSE as an Architecture Company
Architects bring a comprehensive understanding of spatial design, materials, and environmental considerations. They are equipped to navigate the complexities of zoning laws, building codes, and site-specific challenges, ensuring that the home is not only functional but also harmonious with its surroundings.
With extensive experience in designing small homes, BAAHOUSE offers a holistic approach that covers everything from built-in joinery to landscaping to ensure the new small home or granny flat is cohesive with other dwellings and structures on the property and is designed and orientated on site for the best aspect and climate conditions.
BAAHOUSE can help navigate these challenges, delivering a well-designed, functional, and beautiful small home that meets all regulatory requirements and client expectations.
If you are after an aesthetic and functional small home design with quality materials designed for your property and lifestyle, please contact us for a starter kit. We provide a guideline for current construction costs from recent quotes on projects, as well as consultants who may be required for your project.
Heading and some content drafted by Stephen Crafti.
