Design It
An upside down house layout is the perfect solution for self builders who are either wanting to maximise their plot’s amazing views or building on a tricky site. We take a look at a collection of fantastic real homes with upside down layouts to show what’s possible
If you’re lucky enough to have a dramatic landscape on the doorstep of your property or building plot, chances are you’ll want to make the most of it. An upside down house layout may therefore be the best architectural choice when it comes to framing your site’s scenic surroundings.
The basis of an upside down house layout is to locate the bedrooms on the groundfloor, with the main living areas on the home’s first floor. This allows the most sociable spaces – the kitchen and reception zones – to enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills or a glistening coastline.
An upside down house design can also benefit a self build on a sloping site, where ground floor space may be restricted. It’s likely that you want your living spaces to be bigger than the bedrooms, so this allows you to effectively maximise the plot you’re working with.
From a converted fire station with a tranquil sun terrace, to a charming oak frame annexe that blends into its rural surroundings, here are 16 of the best upside down projects that show the exciting possibilities an upside down house layout could unlock for you.
1. Light-Filled Oak Frame Self Build with an Upside Down House Layout
The desire to downsize from their family home in Surrey prompted Chris and Mary Noon to tackle their first self build – a stunning oak frame project in Dorset, with enviable views of the sea. “We started planning our next move when our two kids moved out about 10 years ago,” says Chris, who was keen to create something bespoke that he and Mary could enjoy in their retirement.
Photo: Richard Downer
The couple explored various locations before settling on Bridport, Dorset, where they purchased a 1950s prefab bungalow located on a sloping plot with panoramic views. They soon started drawing up plans for a knock-down and rebuild project, engaging Roderick James Architects to help them create the perfect scheme.
Photo: Richard Downer
After two years and few planning hurdles, the family were finally ready to move into their dream home. The fantastic scheme was brought to life using an oak frame and structural insulated panels structural package from Westwind Oak, with the oak trusses left exposed for additional character. Inside, the upside down house layout means the living spaces are situated on the upper storey, allowing expansive countryside views and a light-filled, open home.
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2. Affordable Timber Self Build Home in Scotland
Dene and Debbie Happellhave created this contemporary timber frame home in the Trossachs National Park, which pleased local planners following its sympathetic materials and striking design.
Photo: Douglas Gibbs
The couple, who have gained ample experience through their own their design and build companyNest, were after somewhere to call their holiday home. Debbie’s parents had purchased a property looking over Loch Venachar and soon suggested that the couple build over a large rundown shed that existed on the site.
Luckily, local planners had been looking to promote modern architecture to attract tourism to the area.
Photo: Douglas Gibbs
So, what came next was their remarkable new home, completed alongsideCameron Webster Architectsand usingFleming Homes’ timber frame shell that arrived on site with insulation already installed. “We chose this build method for speed and price,” says Dene.
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3. Charming 1.5-Storey Upside Down Passivhaus Home
The drive to live in a thermally-efficient property was one of the main driving forces behind Dominic and Shamim Byrne’s search for a new home.
Photo: Katie Lee
Although, after six months of house hunting, Dominic and Shamim were unable to find a property that ticked the right boxes. “We’d always been drawn to the idea of self building. When a garden plot came up for sale, on the edge of the town where we were looking, it made sense to check it out,” says Dominic.
Photo: Katie Lee
The couple bought the plot and 9 months later their self build was finished, complete with an upside down house layout. The MBC timber frame structure is clad in a brick skin, with clay pantiles on the roof that harmonise with the local vernacular. The home features solar PV panels and an air source heat pump. The heat pump provides the hot water and powers the underfloor heating on the ground floor. Upstairs, no heating is needed.
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