As the demand for housing continues to grow, corner block duplex designs have become increasingly popular. These designs offer a unique opportunity to create two separate homes on one block, maximizing the use of space while still maintaining some level of privacy for each resident. However, striking a balance between privacy and community can be a challenge, and it’s important to think carefully about the design of your corner block duplex to ensure both are achieved.
One of the key considerations when designing a corner block duplex is the location of each home on the block. Placing them side by side may help to maximize privacy but can also create a sense of separation that can make it difficult to build a sense of community. Instead, consider placing the two homes at opposite corners of the block, facing each other. This will not only create a shared area in the center of the block but also allows for better orientation of each home to maximize natural light and privacy.
The next consideration is landscaping and fencing. While it may be tempting to erect high fences to separate the two homes, doing so can create feelings of isolation and cut off the sense of community. Instead, try using low-level fencing or ornamental shrubs to create natural dividers in the outdoor space. This will help to foster a sense of community between the two residences, while still maintaining some level of privacy.
Another consideration is the layout of each home. While it may be tempting to mirror each home’s layout, this can make both houses feel identical and impersonal. Instead, consider mixing up the layouts to create a sense of individuality in each property. This will help to avoid the feeling of living in a cookie-cutter community and give each resident a unique sense of ownership of their corner block duplex.
Finally, think about shared amenities between the two homes. If both properties share a driveway, for example, consider designing this space to allow residents to park their cars behind each other. This will not only create more space for parking but also create a sense of community as residents help each other to move cars in and out. Similarly, a shared outdoor area could be designed to allow both residents to use it for barbecues and socializing.
Creating a sense of community in a corner block duplex design doesn’t have to come at the expense of privacy. By carefully considering the orientation, landscaping, layout, and shared amenities between the two properties, it’s possible to strike a balance that maintains privacy while still fostering a sense of community between the two residences. Ultimately, this will create a more enjoyable living experience for both residents, and ensure that your corner block duplex becomes a desirable place to live in the years to come.
