Sloping blocks can be a blessing and a curse when it comes to landscape design. While they offer unique opportunities for creative design, they also present challenges that must be addressed. At Lynx Landscaping on the Gold Coast, we specialise in turning sloping blocks into stunning outdoor spaces that are both functional and beautiful.
In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of sloping blocks, how to assess your block, erosion prevention, and the cost of landscaping on sloped blocks. Let’s get started!
Advantages of Sloped Blocks
While it might be true that building on flat land may be more affordable, sloping ground offers several advantages that can offset the initial construction costs. These benefits include reduced excavation needs, natural drainage, and lower energy bills, making sloping ground a cost-effective option in the long run.
Reduced Building Costs
Building on a slope can be surprisingly cost-effective. Forget extensive excavation – split-level homes often require less digging compared to flat land basements.
More outdoor living Spaces
Slopes aren’t wasted land; they’re opportunities! Terraced gardens, cascading water features, and even private nooks can be incorporated, maximising usable outdoor space. This translates to a more connected living experience and potentially increased property value.
Privacy and Extra Rooms
The natural elevation of a slope creates a sense of seclusion. Tucked-away rooms like hobby spaces, wine cellars, or additional storage can be cleverly integrated into the design, adding functionality and value to your home.
Light and Energy Savings
Sloping properties often bathe in sunlight, a boon for both your health and wallet. Strategically placed windows and skylights capture this natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and heating/cooling systems. Additionally, the slope can facilitate natural ventilation, further boosting energy efficiency.
Natural Drainage
One of the biggest advantages of a sloping block is natural drainage. Water runs off the slope, reducing the risk of pooling and flooding. This allows for the creation of terraced gardens, water features, and retaining walls that may not be possible on flat land. By working with the natural contours, you can direct water away from your house and into water tanks, saving money on bills and promoting a thriving garden.
Stunning Views
Sloping blocks and especially steep slopes, can offer breathtaking views, especially if they are situated on a hill or overlook a scenic area. You can capitalise on these views by creating patios, decks, or lookout points that take advantage of the natural beauty.
Challenges and Considerations
Landscaping a steep slope can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. Before starting the process, it’s essential to consider the unique factors that come with sloping terrain.
Erosion and Soil Stability
Erosion and soil stability are the primary concerns when landscaping a steep slope. Gravity and the angle of the land can cause water to course down the slope, leading to erosion and loss of topsoil. This results in reduced soil fertility, making it challenging to establish a garden or planting area. However, with the right vegetation choices, it’s still possible to create a thriving garden.
Maintenance Accessibility
Maintenance access can be a significant challenge on steep slopes. Grades exceeding 33% (3:1) can pose safety risks for equipment and personnel. To overcome this, homeowners may opt for low-maintenance vegetation, built-in irrigation, or create access paths and flat areas for easier upkeep.
Design Process
Landscaping a steep slope requires creative problem-solving and innovative design, taking into account soil conditions, maintenance needs, and geographic location. While some may view these design challenges as limitations, others see them as opportunities to think outside the box and create unique and thriving outdoor spaces.
The Cost of Landscaping on Sloped Blocks
Landscaping sloped sites in Australia will most likely cost more compared to a flat one due to several challenges.
Slopes often require retaining walls to create usable flat areas and hold back soil. These walls can be expensive, with the cost varying depending on size, material, and complexity of the design.
Additionally, levelling a sloped area or creating terraces may involve excavation and moving a significant amount of soil, which adds to labour and equipment expenses. Finally, proper drainage is crucial on slopes to prevent erosion and water pooling. This may necessitate additional drainage solutions compared to a flat block.
Because of these factors, expect to pay anywhere from 20% to 100% more for landscaping on a sloped block. The exact cost will depend on the size of your block, the steepness of the slope, and the features you desire. For example, patios, walkways, and gardens will increase the cost on both levelled and sloped blocks, but the impact might be more significant for sloped blocks due to the extra work involved in construction on an incline.
Getting Started
Don’t be discouraged by the tilt of your land! A natural slope can be an exciting canvas for creative landscaping. With a little planning and some key considerations, you can transform that slope into a stunning and functional outdoor haven. Here’s a breakdown to get you started:
Know Your Slope:
- Steepness: This is a crucial factor. Gentle slopes might require minimal intervention, while severe slopes and steeper inclines might necessitate retaining walls or terracing for safety and usability. Measure the slope or consult a professional to determine the grade.
- Sun Exposure: How much sun does each section of the slope receive throughout the day? This will influence plant selection and determine areas best suited for entertaining or relaxing in shade or sun.
- Soil Conditions: Understanding your soil type (clay, sandy, etc.) will help you choose plants that thrive in those conditions. A soil test can reveal any deficiencies that might need to be addressed for optimal plant health.
Envision Your Dream Space:
- Functionality: Think about how you want to utilise the space. Do you crave a tranquil garden retreat, a vibrant entertaining area, or a combination of both?
- Features: Imagine the elements you desire in your sloping backyard. Do you envision a cascading waterfall, a fire pit patio with a view, or a network of winding pathways?
- Style: Consider the overall aesthetic you prefer. Do you lean towards a natural, rustic vibe, a modern and minimalist approach, or something else entirely?
Seek Professional Guidance
While you can tackle a DIY approach, a landscaping professional or qualified landscape designer can be an invaluable asset. Their expertise can help you:
- Navigate regulations: There might be local regulations regarding retaining wall construction or slope modifications. A designer can ensure your plan adheres to these guidelines.
- Optimise design: They can create a design that maximises the potential of your slope, incorporating features that complement the natural contours and drainage patterns.
- Plant selection: A designer can recommend plants suited to the specific sun exposure and soil conditions of your slope, ensuring a thriving and low-maintenance landscape.
Gold Coast Sloping Block Designs
At Lynx Landscaping on the Gold Coast, we specialise in unlocking the potential of sloping blocks, creating stunning outdoor spaces that are both functional and beautiful. Our team of experts has extensive experience in retaining wall design, hardscaping, and a wide range of landscaping services to bring your vision to life.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and let us help you with design ideas to make the most out of your block. Call Adam on 0406 819 620 to discuss your next landscaping project.