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House Plans with Garage in the Back

House Plans with Garage in the Back

Introduction

If you’re considering a new home design, you might want to explore house plans with a garage in the back. This layout has become increasingly popular, especially in urban and suburban areas where space is precious. A house plans with garage in the back offers a range of advantages, from boosting curb appeal to increasing privacy. If you’re looking to make the most of your home’s design, this might be the perfect option for you.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about house plans with a garage in the back, including their benefits, design considerations, challenges, and real-life examples. Let’s explore why more homeowners are choosing this layout over traditional designs.

What Are House Plans with a Garage in the Back?

House plans with garage in the back are designs where the garage is situated at the rear of the property rather than the front. Typically, this means you’ll have an alley or back road access to the garage, which can offer both practical and aesthetic benefits. Instead of seeing a large garage when you first approach the house, the focus shifts to the front façade of the home.

The back garage house plans are often designed with a rear driveway that leads directly to the garage, which can make parking easier and less intrusive to the home’s appearance. This is different from the standard house layout, where the garage faces the street and often dominates the front yard. In a back garage design, you can use the front space more creatively, such as for gardens, walkways, or even a porch.

Benefits of House Plans with Garage in the Back

Increased Curb Appeal

One of the most significant benefits of a house plan with a garage in the back is the improved curb appeal. When you hide the garage at the back of the house, the front of the home can focus on features like beautiful windows, doors, or architectural details. This makes the home look more inviting and elegant. Front-facing garages can sometimes overpower the design of the home, but with a back garage, the house’s true beauty can shine through.

Enhanced Privacy

Another major advantage is the increased privacy. Front-facing garages often create a more exposed feel, especially if the driveway is close to the house. By placing the garage at the back, you can create a more secluded space, both for your car and your living area. This setup allows for better protection from street noise and traffic. Back garage house plans give homeowners a chance to keep their personal space more private, which can be especially appealing in busy neighborhoods.

Better Use of Front Space

When you opt for a back garage design, the space in front of your home is freed up for more landscaping or outdoor features. You could add a beautiful garden, a driveway with a decorative path, or even a spacious front porch to enjoy your outdoor surroundings. Without a garage taking up space in front, you can be more creative with how you use the area, improving the overall appeal of your property.

Convenience

In many cases, having a garage at the back can offer more convenience. If your home is located near an alley or back road, a back garage can make it easier to park your car. For instance, if your neighborhood has a busy street, entering from the back via a quieter alley can save you time and reduce stress. It’s especially handy in urban areas where street parking can be limited. With the garage at the back of the house, you can enjoy a smoother entry into your home.

Real-life Example

Imagine a young family who moved into a new home with a garage in the back. Their house is located in a busy suburban area, but thanks to the rear garage design, they don’t have to worry about navigating crowded streets just to park their car. The family now enjoys a quiet, peaceful entry to their home, with more space in the front yard for their children to play and explore. They often host gatherings, and their back garage house plans have made their living experience far more enjoyable.

Considerations When Choosing a House Plan with Garage in the Back

Before choosing a house plan with a garage in the back, there are several factors to consider. It’s important to understand the potential challenges and how they might affect your design.

Zoning and Local Laws

Local zoning laws play a key role in determining whether a back garage is a viable option. Some cities or towns have strict rules regarding the size of garages or the need for alley access. For example, if your city does not allow garages in alleys or if there are height restrictions, it might not be feasible to build a garage at the back of your home. Always check with a local architect or builder to ensure that the design meets your area’s regulations.

Topography

The topography of the land is another important factor to consider. If the land is steep or uneven, constructing a back garage could be more challenging and costly. A slope might make it difficult to create a safe and functional driveway. In some cases, you may need additional grading or landscaping to make the back garage work. Before committing to a plan, it’s best to assess your land’s layout and consult a professional about any potential obstacles.

Cost

Building a house with a garage in the back can sometimes be more expensive than a traditional front-facing garage. This is because you may need extra work to prepare the land, create a rear driveway, or add features like gates for privacy. Depending on the location, construction costs could be higher. It’s a good idea to talk with a contractor or builder to get an accurate estimate before proceeding with a back garage house plan.

Popular House Plan Designs with Garage in the Back

There are various house plans with garage in the back that cater to different tastes and needs. Some popular designs include:

  • Modern designs: These often feature sleek, minimalist exteriors and a rear garage to maintain a clean, contemporary look.
  • Traditional cottage-style homes: These homes often have a cozy, rustic feel and a rear-facing garage that blends into the environment.
  • Two-story homes: Many modern two-story houses have back garages, with the driveway leading to the rear of the house for added privacy.

Also, read: Farmhouse Window Treatment Ideas

Challenges of House Plans with Garage in the Back

While a garage at the back of the house offers many benefits, there are also challenges to consider. For one, not all areas have easy access to alleys or back roads. In some locations, the lack of alleyways can make it impossible to implement a back garage plan. Additionally, the cost of grading or modifying the land to fit a rear garage can be high, depending on the terrain and local building codes.

How to Maximize the Use of Space with House Plans with Garage in the Back

Maximizing space with house plans with garage in the back is all about thoughtful design. If you have a backyard or extra space, you can use it to create a private garden, a patio, or even an outdoor kitchen for entertaining. You can also consider building storage units or a workshop within the garage. The key is to integrate the garage into the overall flow of your home and make the most of every square foot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Designing House Plans with Garage in the Back

When designing your house plan with a garage in the back, avoid the following mistakes:

  • Not considering access: Ensure you have proper access to the garage from the back.
  • Ignoring local zoning laws: Always check the rules before you start designing.
  • Overlooking the cost: Account for any additional expenses for construction, grading, or driveway work.

Cost of Building a House with Garage in the Back

Building a house with a garage in the back can vary greatly in cost, depending on factors like location, land preparation, and design complexity. On average, you may expect to pay more for a back garage house plan than for a traditional front-facing garage. However, the increased privacy, curb appeal, and convenience might make the investment worth it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, house plans with garage in the back offer many benefits, including improved curb appeal, enhanced privacy, and better use of space. However, it’s important to consider the challenges and ensure that your location, budget, and design preferences align with a back garage layout. 

If done right, this design can significantly enhance your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Always consult with a local architect to make sure your back garage house plan is feasible and well-suited to your needs.

FAQs

1. What is the room between the garage and the house called?

The room between the garage and the house is typically a mudroom or utility room, serving as a transitional space for coats, shoes, and storage before entering the living areas.

2. What is a garage house called?

A house with an attached or integrated garage is often called a garage-style home or simply a house with an attached garage depending on the design.

3. Does a floor plan include a garage?

Yes, most floor plans include a garage if the home features one, showing its layout as either attached or detached from the main living space.

4. Why is there a step up from the garage to the house?

A step up from the garage to the house ensures proper drainage and prevents water runoff or flooding from the garage into the living areas, complying with building codes.

5. What do you call a living space above a garage?

A living space above a garage is commonly referred to as a bonus room, garage apartment, or accessory dwelling unit (ADU), often used for extra living space or rental income.

6. What is the first step in building a garage?

The first step in building a garage is to obtain the necessary permits and plan the design, ensuring the garage meets local zoning regulations and building codes.

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