Infill construction is the construction of new homes or buildings on previously unused land in an existing neighborhood. This process can help homeowners stay in neighborhoods they love while upgrading their living spaces. Infill construction can also involve the construction of a new home in the place of an older home that is unsafe to renovate, as well as the creation of a neighborhood development on an unused property. This construction process has added environmental benefits as it lowers the amount of open space or agricultural land used for construction and brings new opportunities to the surrounding community. We’ve asked local architects, builders, interior designers and professionals to give insight into infill construction and its many benefits.
Enhancing Your Home
Neighborhoods are made of people and the character of the buildings. If you like both and want to imitate the existing character—you are set. If you want to change the character of the building to something different, like something more modern with larger glass in the front of the home, then make sure you can do that by checking for indentures, homeowners regulations and architectural review boards. They may have regulations that will prevent or restrict what you’d like to do. —Susan Bower, Bower Leet Design
A Careful Balance
Designing a custom home in an established neighborhood requires careful planning to balance your vision with zoning regulations, neighborhood character and site constraints. Engaging Srote & Co's team early to navigate approvals, optimize the design for the lot and ensure a smooth design process is critical. Thoughtful design, clear communication with neighbors and strategic planning will result in a home that feels distinctive and harmonious with its surroundings. —Robert Srote, Srote & Co Architects
A Combination of Personalization and Character
Building an infill home within an existing neighborhood in the St. Louis area can be an exciting journey, blending personalized design with the character of existing homes. The process usually begins with finding a suitable homesite accounting for factors like buildable area, existing easements, utilities location, zoning laws and the architectural style of the surrounding homes. Collaborating with a reputable builder familiar with local regulations and community standards is crucial. The process involves designing a home that is in harmony with the neighborhood while also meeting the specific needs and tastes of the homeowner. — Jim Brennan, McKelvey Homes
New and Noteworthy Builds
Building a new home in a neighborhood you've always dreamed of living in can easily come true if you move fast. Architects, custom builders and homeowners can closely watch the real estate market for that single lot to become available in your desired location. For example, we had our eyes set on a prime Sunset Hills 28-acre parcel of land that backed up to Sunset Country Club and quickly purchased it once it was available. At our Sunset Reserve home site, homeowners can choose the architect and build their custom home in an established municipality. With infill custom building, prime building opportunities are scarce and the buyer has to move fast in order to secure the neighborhood of their dreams when purchasing their lot. —Mike Borzillo, A.J. Borzillo General Contractor
Design Guidelines
Tips we would offer to an owner thinking about embarking on an infill project are: review local zoning laws, setback requirements and design guidelines to ensure your project complies with neighborhood regulations; prioritize a design that respects the neighborhood’s character while ensuring the home meets your family’s unique needs for space, light and privacy; and lastly, communicate with local officials, neighbors and your architect early in the process to address concerns, streamline approvals and foster a positive relationship with the community. —David Schaub, Schaub Projects
