While both coach houses and laneway houses are distinctive residential choices that offer unique living experiences, they are often confused.
In this article, Green Path is aiming to outline the differences between the two housing options through an extensive comparison that clarifies their definitions, characteristics, utilization, advantages, disadvantages, and their appreciated contributions to urban development and housing strategies.
1. Definitions and Historical Context
- Coach house: Coach houses also known as carriage houses have been around for centuries. They were originally designed to house horse-drawn coaches and the related tack. Many of these structures have been repurposed into commercial or residential spaces, guest accommodations or rental units over the years. In current terms, coach houses are often a mixture of a detached freehold and an apartment with a deep historical background and unique architectural features on the same lot as a main residence.
- Laneway house: A laneway house is a relatively contemporary concept, particularly popular in urban areas where space has become scarce. Laneway houses are a form of detached secondary residence usually built at the back of a property, alongside to an alley or laneway. Designed to maximize unused spaces within urban lots, laneway houses are part of a broader strategy to increase density and provide more residential options within cities.
2. Characteristics
Design and Location:
- Coach houses maintain a rustic or historical aesthetic, often presenting elements like brickwork, exposed wooden beams and high ceilings on the ground floor. They were usually built in an architectural style that matched the main house, creating a cohesive aesthetic for the entire residence. They often feature traditional gabled roofs, large windows, and a dense floor that maximizes space efficiency.
- Laneway houses are facing onto a laneway or alley. These structures are characterized by their contemporary design and compact impression. These houses often feature modern materials like metal cladding and large windows to benefit the most from natural light. The focus of laneway houses’ design is maximizing efficiency and space, with open floor plans and multi-purpose spaces. These structures are sought after in urban areas where space is limited, also providing additional housing options without compromising the existing neighborhood aesthetics.
Size and layout:
Both types of houses are generally smaller than the main dwellings on the property.
- Coach houses vary more significantly in size compared to laneway houses, as they are often built over a garage or other existing structure. The layout of a coach house is typically more traditional, with separate rooms such as living room, dining room, and sleeping areas. They also may have multiple levels, with bedrooms on the upper floors to add more privacy.
- On the other hand, laneway houses are usually smaller in size and are built on the same lot as the main house but at the back of the main residence facing the laneway. The layout of a laneway house is often more compact and a few internal walls or partitions can be found. This makes the place ideal for individuals or couples looking for a pleasant living area with all the necessary amenities.
Overall both houses can be unique options that can help with increasing demand for more budget-friendly and sustainable housing in urban areas.
3. Utilization
Even though laneway houses and coach houses both serve as additional living spaces on a property, they have definite differences in their use and design. Coach houses are often renovated to represent guest houses, rental units, or even home offices. The benefit of coach houses can be the sense of privacy and independence that is provided for the residents while still being connected to the main property. On the other hand, laneway houses are commonly used as housing for extended family members. They also present more affordable housing options in tightly packed areas. In conclusion, both types of secondary residences play a part in resolving housing shortages and escalating housing diversity in urban environments.
4. Advantages
Coach house Advantages:
- Income increase: The extra space can provide homeowners with rental income or provide accommodation for extended family members without the need for major renovations to the main house.
- Historical charm: coach houses often present distinctive architectural features and a sense of history that many find appealing.
- Versatility: Based on their varied sizes, coach houses can offer multiple purposes, such as rental residences, guest houses, or home offices.
- Privacy: While these houses are typically located on larger properties with existing main houses, they offer a sense of independence and privacy for residents. The separation can be pleasing for both homeowners and occupants looking for a quiet retreat away from the bustle of the property.
Laneway house Advantages:
- Urban living: They provide the chance of living in densely populated areas, close to urban amenities and workplaces. Also, the role of laneway houses in the life of residents working in downtown areas and the necessity of access to urban facilities can not be overstated.
- Sustainability: As the density in urban areas increases, laneway houses contribute to a more sustainable urban development pattern, reducing reliance on automobiles and simulating walkability.
- Usage flexibility: They offer a variety of living options, serving as guest accommodations or home offices. They can also be customized as a studio, workshop, or just an additional living space based on your needs. The flexibility also allows homeowners to adapt the space to their needs over time. Laneway houses provide homeowners with a wide range of options to suit their lifestyles and preferences.
5. Disadvantages
Coach House Disadvantages:
- Cost and maintenance: The major downside of coach houses is the cost correlated with building or renovating them. The cost can be significant depending on the size and design of the house. Older structures may require more maintenance and renovation to meet modern living standards.
- Regulations: There might be building codes and restrictions on renovations, especially if the coach house is designated as a historical building. This can also limit their availability as a housing option.
Laneway House Disadvantages:
- Space Constraints: The compact nature of laneway houses might not suit everyone’s needs, especially families needing more space.
- Cost of construction: The cost can be notable depending on the size and design of the structure. However, homeowners may need to invest in infrastructure upgrades such as electrical, plumbing, and access pathways to follow building codes and zoning regulations.
- Privacy: Since laneway houses are located close to alleys or other properties, it can lead to less privacy for both the occupants of the laneway house and the main dwelling compared to traditional housing options. Also, increased parking requests and traffic can affect privacy, as more pedestrians and vehicles may be present in the neighborhood. Homeowners may need to come up with solutions such as fencing, landscaping or replacing the windows in order to reduce privacy concerns.
6. Urban Development and Housing Strategy
Coach houses and laneway houses play remarkable roles in the evolving urban landscape. Coach houses help urban landscapes evolve by reusing existing structures, aligning with sustainable development principles by repurposing buildings, and reducing the need for new construction materials. Laneway houses, on the other hand, are crucial in densification strategies of cities, offering new housing options in established neighborhoods without altering their character notably.
Both housing types contribute to a more diverse urban fabric, providing options that serve different needs and preferences. By offering alternatives to standard single-family homes or multistorey apartments, they help to address the housing affordability crisis many cities encounter, making efficient use of available land.
Conclusion
While both coach houses and laneway houses offer unique living experiences and contribute positively to urban development, they serve distinct tastes, needs, and situations. A coach house offers historical charm and a connection to the past, suitable for those who value character and versatility. In contrast, a laneway house is a contemporary solution to urban living challenges, offering sustainability and efficient use of space. Understanding these differences is vital for homeowners, city planners, and potential residents alike, as it enables informed decisions that shape our living environments for the better.
