From elevation and orientation to access and outlook, a well-considered site unlocks architectural opportunities. A sloping block may enable tiered living or striking voids; a corner lot might offer light from multiple directions. These subtleties define the home’s character before the first sketch is even drawn. It’s why many of our clients engage us early—to assess the site before purchase and ensure their investment supports the home they envision.
Step 1: Clarify Your Architectural Priorities
Before you begin walking potential blocks, take time to reflect on the type of home you wish to create. A clearly defined vision will help you assess whether a block supports your goals—or limits them. Consider lifestyle factors such as privacy, orientation, outdoor space, access, and potential views. If you’re still forming your brief, our guide to creating a design brief can help you clarify your needs before committing to a site.
When you’re seeking a truly bespoke home, the block shouldn’t dictate design—but it should enable it.
Step 2: Understand the Site Conditions
With your priorities in mind, start assessing blocks based on their physical and planning characteristics. These include:
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Orientation (for solar gain and natural light)
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Topography (level vs. sloping ground)
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Access (from the street or rear laneway)
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Surrounding context (privacy, views, neighbouring properties)
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Council zoning and restrictions
Our team regularly assists clients in evaluating blocks before purchase. On projects like Bicton House, the elevated site allowed us to design a home that captures sweeping views and natural ventilation, while maximising privacy across multiple levels.
Considering a site? We can help you assess its full potential.
Step 3: Visualise Design Possibilities
Once you’ve shortlisted a block, imagine how your future home might respond to it. How will the morning light fall across the living areas? Can the rear yard be positioned for northern exposure? Is there an opportunity to step the home with the slope of the land, as we did at Wembley House?
Designing with discipline doesn’t mean limiting creativity—it means unlocking the full potential of a site through intentional planning. For those unsure where to begin, we can recommend leading architects and interior designers who understand how to work with site complexity and align with our high standards of craftsmanship.
Learn more about our approach to customisation and tailored design.
Step 4: Choose With Confidence
The best blocks for luxury homes are rarely perfect on paper—but they offer potential. With the right design response and a builder who understands how to translate vision into reality, even complex sites can become extraordinary. In fact, some of our most celebrated homes—from Applecross to Wembley—were shaped by the unique challenges and opportunities of their location.
Our team at Minniti and Son has decades of experience building across Perth’s most exclusive suburbs. If you’re in the process of selecting land, we encourage you to contact us early. A brief consultation can save time, reveal opportunities, and lay the foundation for a home that is completely and confidently yours.
Your Perfect Perth Home Awaits
At Minniti and Son, we understand that your home is more than just a building—it’s a reflection of who you are. That’s why we’re committed to creating homes that are as unique as our clients. Our tailored design process ensures that every aspect of your home is custom-designed to meet your needs, exceed your expectations, and stand as a testament to our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
If you’re ready to turn your dream home into a reality, contact Minniti and Son today. Let us show you how our tailored design process can create the perfect home for you in Perth.
