Getting a custom-built home is a thrilling journey, but some choices along the way can be overwhelming.
An important part of this process is selecting the lot where your home will stand. The reality is that where you choose to build your home will influence so many other factors in how your home will be built.
Choosing a lot isn’t only about location and size; it’s about finding the place that gives you the space for the perfect layout, wow-worthy views and room to create a home that accommodates the luxury lifestyle you crave.
So let’s dive deeper into the location, topography, size, and layout of your home and how these factors can help determine where we at Riverview Custom Homes will build your WOW.
Finding the Right Foundation for Your Dream Home
A custom home build offers luxury, variety, and the opportunity to build something that speaks directly to you and the life you envision. That’s why the lot you choose is so important.
So before we get into the beauty of designing your dream home, let’s take a closer look at the types of lots available for your custom build in Calgary:
- Infill Lots: These are typically found in established neighbourhoods. They provide an opportunity to build a new home where an older one once stood.
- Acreage Lots: Located in rural settings, these lots offer more space, privacy, and scenic views.
- Subdivision Lots: These are in newly developed areas, often with pre-defined architectural guidelines.
Each type offers different opportunities and limitations for your home’s eventual layout, so understanding the options can help drive your choice depending on the type of home you desire.
Location Is Part of the Luxury
A custom home build isn’t just about the house; it’s about the place you lay your roots. It’s about the views, neighbourhood, and surrounding amenities as much as the home itself. That’s why taking several external factors into consideration when choosing the location of your build is vital.
Some practical daily-life considerations to think about when choosing where to plan your custom build include:
- Proximity to Amenities: Consider how close the lot is to schools, hospitals, shopping centers, and other amenities.
- Commute: Think about the daily commute to work, school, or other everyday destinations.
- Neighbourhood Dynamics: Ensure the neighbourhood aligns with your lifestyle and future goals. Some areas might be more family-oriented, while others could be quieter or cater to younger residents.
Many master-planned communities also feature premium lots close to serene green spaces, water, or stunning views.
Thinking about the type of privacy you desire and the sounds and serenity you want your surroundings to offer is also a key consideration you won’t want to overlook.
Maybe you want unobstructed views of the rolling foothills and the mountains peeking through the clouds, to wake up to the soft sound of water rippling on a lake, or simply to hear the blissful sound of silence and revel in the privacy that your location offers. All of these considerations will eventually factor into the location you choose for your custom home build.
Finding a Lot That Fits Your Vision
Do you envision a large and sprawling outdoor area for entertaining in your new home? Or maybe you’re picturing a home that has designated spaces for multigenerational use with private entrances and guest areas. Either way, the shape, size, and scope of the lot you choose will end up influencing your home’s design, space, and future possibilities.
- Width: A wider lot can accommodate a more expansive house or a side garage.
- Depth: Deeper lots might provide larger backyard spaces.
- Irregular Shapes: These can offer unique design opportunities or challenges.
The lot’s gradient is also important to consider. That’s because some lots incline from the front to the rear, while others slope in the opposite direction. Often, a flat or level lot might be the optimal choice. However, if you are thinking about adding a walk-out basement or specific yard designs, then slope becomes a significant factor.
The orientation of your home may also factor into which lot you choose. Think about what views you want to see from the inside of your finished home, how you want the sun to filter in through your large floor-to-ceiling windows, or how you’d like to watch the evening sky roll in from your deck. Knowing what sights you want will help determine which orientation best suits your home and help narrow down which lots actually fit your desires.
Designing a Layout Around the Way You Live
This is the fun part, the part where you can let your imagination run free. When it comes to building a luxury custom home, nothing is off the table, so dream big with your layout.
Imagine waking up with views of the mountains, entertaining in large open-concept living spaces or landscaped patios, or planning your kitchen for functionality without compromising on design with built-in storage that is as sleek as it is effective.
Think about the spaces that can make everyday life feel a little more luxurious, too. A thoughtfully designed mudroom can keep everyday clutter tucked away, while a walk-in or working pantry can provide extra storage and prep space without compromising the look of your kitchen.
Add wellness spaces and spa-like facilities to take luxury to the next level, and plan for natural light and views to be at the centre of your design.
Planning the layout for your dream home can help determine which lots can accommodate your designs.
Bringing Your Custom Home Vision to Life
A professional custom home builder in Calgary, like Riverview Custom Homes, can give feedback on potential construction challenges or costs associated with specific lots.
They can also help you determine whether a lot has the space, orientation, and possibilities to accommodate the home you envision.
Our unique process allows you to partner confidently with our in-house craftsmen throughout the creation of your home to guarantee it captures your vision. Working with us ensures a home-building experience you will enjoy, exceeding your expectations from concept to completion, because at Riverview Custom Homes, we build wow.
Check out our gallery, and when you’re ready, connect with us to breathe life into your dream home.
Custom Home Building FAQs
What should I consider when choosing a lot for a custom home?
Think beyond the size and location of the lot and consider the home you eventually want to build on it. Views, privacy, slope, orientation, outdoor space, and the size and shape of the home you envision can all help determine whether a lot is right for your custom build.
How does a lot affect the layout of a custom home?
The size, shape, slope, and orientation of your lot can all influence your home’s eventual layout. These factors can affect everything from the direction your windows face and the views you enjoy to the possibility of a walk-out basement, expansive outdoor entertaining areas or other custom features.
When should I involve a custom home builder in lot selection?
Ideally, before you make your final decision on a lot. An experienced custom home builder can help you understand the possibilities and potential limitations of a property and whether it can accommodate the custom home you envision.