This article is based on a report from www.architectureanddesign.com.au titled “The trend for small house designs”. You can find the original article here: https://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/editorial/features/the-small-house-design-trend
The Rise of Tiny Houses: Architectural Insights for Australian Property Professionals
The Australian property landscape has witnessed a fascinating shift towards smaller homes in recent years. This change is reflected in the average size of new houses built, which has begun to decline from the previously dominant McMansion trend, indicating a potential pivot towards more compact living solutions.
Defining Small House Architectural Design
In architectural terms, ‘small house design’ typically encompasses homes with floor areas ranging from 80 sqm to 200 sqm. This category does not include any external spaces such as garages, courtyards, or terraces. As a result, small house architecture provides a compelling contrast to the average Australian home size, which reached 228.8 sqm in recent years.
The appeal of small house design lies in its ability to reuse space efficiently while maintaining comfort and aesthetic value. It often emphasises open-plan living and smart layouts that maximise functionality without compromising style.
Advantages of Small House Design
For professionals and enthusiasts in the Australian property sector, the benefits of small house design are significant:
- Sustainability: Smaller homes utilise fewer building materials, resulting in lower embodied carbon. They require less energy for heating and cooling, promoting environmentally friendly practices within the construction industry.
- Reduced Cleaning and Maintenance: Less square footage translates to easier upkeep. Fewer bathrooms and appliances result in lower maintenance costs, appealing to busy homeowners seeking a simplified lifestyle.
- Lifestyle Simplicity: Residents of small homes often lead less cluttered lives, promoting a mindset of minimalism and intentional living. This aesthetic can resonate with buyers prioritising quality over quantity in their living spaces.
Cost-Effective Small Home Movement
The economic aspect of small house design is equally attractive. According to recent figures, the average cost of building a house in Australia was approximately $313,800. When calculated against the average size of 222.8 sqm, this equates to around $1,408 per sqm. Consequently, a small home of about 150 sqm could cost around $211,265, making it a financially viable option without sacrificing quality. Buyers can either save on initial costs or reinvest those savings into higher-quality fixtures and finishes.
Distinguishing Small Homes from Tiny Houses
While often conflated, small homes and tiny houses differ significantly in architectural scope. A tiny house typically measures around 25 sqm or less and often centres on sustainability and affordability over elaborate design considerations. This movement caters to specific needs like emergency housing but may not suit the broader demographic that small house architecture appeals to.
In contrast, small house design offers varied implications for the architectural industry, encompassing everything from three-bedroom family homes to streamlined infill developments. This versatility suggests a revolutionary shift in Australian housing preferences.
Inspiring Small House Designs in Australia
Here are six noteworthy examples of small house designs that exemplify the innovation within this architectural trend:
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Fitzroy North House 02 by Rob Kennon Architects
A two-storey dwelling in Melbourne, this 197 sqm home harmonises with the surrounding terrace style, incorporating both front and rear outdoor spaces. -
Sawmill House by Archier
Situated on an old sawmill site, this 100 sqm home features sustainable design elements like a retractable roof and employs locally sourced recycled materials. -
Samford Valley Small House
Located near Brisbane, this 80 sqm ‘granny flat’ boasts substantial decking, extending living space into the outdoors, ideal for the subtropical climate. -
Parkdale 179 by GJ Gardner Homes
Tailored for compact blocks, this design offers an open-plan layout, seamlessly connecting the living area with the outdoor space, promoting a sense of spaciousness. -
Prospect House by Breathe Architecture
This 97 sqm home uses robust materials such as galvanised steel and promotes sustainable living with a rainwater tank and waste treatment system. -
Cottage 01 by Studio Edwards
This petite gem of 90 sqm is designed for energy efficiency, featuring solar panels and a green roof while maintaining a charming aesthetic.
"Small houses are a testament to creativity and sustainability, reflecting the changing values in our society." – Australian Architect
As the interest in small house architecture continues to grow among Australians, it presents an opportunity for property professionals to engage with a more sustainable and lifestyle-oriented approach to housing. The implications for design, community development, and environmental stewardship are profound, reshaping the future of Australian living.
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