‘‘Steep plot"

Q: We own a building plot and want to build on
it. The land is quite steep; we’ve been told that
site preparation will cost above average. If this is
true can you advice, on what is the most economical
approach to construct our home? And some
indications on a suitable design plan for a sloping
site.

N. Campbell, St. George’s

A: The short answer is yes, sloping sites involve higher
costs, but a lot depends on the individual design of a
building. The reason for higher costs is excavation, further
more; individual building sites also play an important role
in determining the cost of construction. For instance, a
level stretch of land will require far less foundation and
site preparation than a site that slopes. A design that steps
down the slope will be less costly than one which requires
support construction below the floor line. The support will
introduce several levels that require connecting stairs. If
you’re after easy living, less housework, this is not the
answer. It does however, naturally define living spaces
and can be an interesting design approach.
You could also consider a pole frame construction, with
a series of platforms stepping down the slope to form the
various living areas. The same need for linking stairways
applies here.