building into landscape

Chisler2

Hopefully the Mods will shift this if there is an existing, similar thread, but I've failed to find one.

What are the engineering and technical difficulties involved if, instead of moving massive amounts of earth out of a sloping site to build a (40sq m max) extension, two rear walls were simply 'built into' the rising land up to about half-way? Would that constitute an additional (geothermal) heat-source combined with conventional heat-system? Would elaborate, therefore expensive, methods of water-proofing be required along the two rear walls which would be 'built in' to the land up to a level of about 6'? Is planning for this - more unusual - approach more difficult than straightforward rectangular building with air around it.

It seems a good idea, but if it is, why is it relatively rare?

gman2k

It's rare because it's expensive to build a tanked building.

BryanF

Chisler2 wrote: »

1. What are the engineering and technical difficulties involved if, instead of moving massive amounts of earth out of a sloping site to build a (40sq m max) extension, two rear walls were simply 'built into' the rising land up to about half-way?
2. Would that constitute an additional (geothermal) heat-source combined with conventional heat-system?
3. Would elaborate, therefore expensive, methods of water-proofing be required along the two rear walls which would be 'built in' to the land up to a level of about 6'?
4. Is planning for this - more unusual - approach more difficult than straightforward rectangular building with air around it.
5. It seems a good idea, but if it is, why is it relatively rare?

1. retaining walls, tanking, drainage surface & any foul, underpinning of existing to support while adjacent extension is being built etc - an on site structural assessment would be required once your architect has had a chance to consider & discuss with you whether in fact this is the best approach
2. perhaps, your not really giving enough detail on what you have in mind? yes the ground temp in Ireland in winter is around 11degs with additional insulation, homes dug in the ground can be a great heat retention option, but not really sure what you mean by geo-thermal in this context?
3. if you mean more expensive than a normal extension then yes
4. not necessarily - your architect will advise
5. is it rare? to do such an 'extension' to an existing building, maybe due to the underpinning aspect, (you need a site assesment) but I can think of loads of homes built into the side of hills/slopes that are dotted around the country

Chisler2

It sounds as if this is the more expensive option but that the experience and technical skill for this type of build are developed and available. Thank you Bryan.