Good quality infill development Print

Design Outcome


Desi​gn Checklist​​​​

  1. ​​​The creation of new sites does not compromise the liveability of existing houses

​​​​​​​​​​Infill development typically involves creating a new section behind or in front of an existing house. In most cases the existing house was not sited or designed with this in mind, which can lead to poor design outcomes when trying to maximise the size of the new site and house.

Rear lot development should be avoided and only used where a comprehensive development or other outcome is not possible. This is because it can create issues around houses overlooking each other, and the loss of private open space at the rear of the existing house. 

Another common problem is that a large amount of site area is required for the on-site manoevuring for cars, which can negatively impact the street environment through an increased number of driveways.​​​​​​

Better Design Practice

Consider boundaries.
The location of boundaries and how they are treated need to be considered to maintain privacy and allow good quality spaces to be created around the existing house.

The existing house should, after subdivision of the site and construction of an infill dwelling, meet the same design standards as any new housing.
This includes access to sunny, private outdoor space linked to a living area, a good relationship to the street and direct and easy access to parking. 
Moving the existing house forward or back can create a better relationship to the newly created site, other houses and spaces around the house.
This may be practicable and financially viable, and can add value to the existing house and any new houses on the newly created site.

Rules of Thumb

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