In the past few years, the concept of compound houses has captured the hearts of many homeowners and real estate enthusiasts.
Compound houses are the perfect housing solution for those who are looking to blend privacy with a sense of community. But what exactly is a compound house and how is it different from the normal house?
To put it simply, a compound house refers to a residential property that consists of multiple separate units or homes within same enclosure, typically surrounded by a wall, fence or hedge.
This way, people get dual benefits – privacy with shared areas like gardens, parking, or other recreational spaces.
Unlike a normal traditional house which usually serves just one household, a compound house is designed to accommodate multiple households within a single property. For example, a large family living in a single property, with their own private houses.
In this article, we will explore what a compound house is and how it’s different from a normal house. Further, we will also understand when should a property be called “Compound” and their characteristics. Additionally, we will also take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of living in a compound house. Last but not least, some FAQs that will help you get the better understanding.
What is Compound House?
A compound house is a housing arrangement where multiple living units, such as residential homes, apartments, or units, are built together within the shared, enclosed property.
Generally, these internal properties are enclosed by a fence, wall, or hedge (with plants like these), to create a sense of privacy.
These houses are fully independent or semi-detached from each other, all sharing a common courtyard, driveway, or garden.
Moreover, a compound house could belong to a one large family(such as uncles or friends), different families, or even the tenants who can rent the spaces.
These houses were designed to promote living within the community while having their own private living spaces.
You may have heard of The Kennedy Compound, it’s a perfect example of a compound house. The property consists of three houses and it was once the home of a famous political figure Joseph P Kennedy.
How is compound house different from the normal house?
What really differentiate a compound house from a normal house is its ability to accommodate multiple households while maintaining a sense of privacy.
The difference between a compound house and a normal house is based upon several key factors, such as – layout, structure, and purpose of the enclosure.
For example, think like you and your cousins live in different houses but built in a single property enclosure. While you all have your individual houses, but can easily meet each other in the sane shared yard, garden to hang out.
When is a house or property considered compound?
A house or property is considered a compound when it includes a number of homes or units built within the same piece of land, all enclosed in a fence or wall.
It’s like there are multiple residences on one piece of property with restricted access for outsiders. These shared communal spaces or amenities create a cohesive yet versatile living area. Those shared communal areas may include gardens, driveways, parking, and recreational areas.
For a property to be considered a compound, it must serve more than one household. It should accommodate two or more households while maintaining a sense of individuality for each.
Take this for example, a large property that consists of one main house and other small houses. In some cases, a compound house can be used for an extended family or friends, and it can also be used as a residential and commercial space.
It’s living in a small town but with your close friends and loved ones.
Features of a compound houses
Compound houses are unique because they are designed with functionality and flexibility in mind.
These houses are a combination of multiple resident houses, all within a single property.
Here are the key features that make them stand out:
Physical Structure of compound house
The physical structure of a compound house typically includes multiple buildings and living spaces enclosed within a shared boundary.
The boundary is often surrounded by walls, and fences, creating a sense of security and cohesiveness within the property.
These buildings can vary in size and style, from small rooms to full-fledged houses. The structure usually has a connecting driveway, and pathway to connect the homes, making it easy for residents to move around in the sharing space.
Layout arrangement
The layout of a compound house is designed for both personal and shared use. Each of the houses has its own entrance for privacy while having shared spaces like central courtyards, gardens, or common parking areas.
These shared spaces encourage residents to interact and share small moments. The layout of the compound house is great for creating a sense of both connection and independence.
Privacy in a compound house
In the compound house, residents are able to experience both, the feeling of living within a community while also having their own personal living spaces.
The design of a compound house ensures that each house has its own space, with separate entrances and private rooms.
For example, a well-planned compound house will have separate personal spaces from communal spaces. This helps in maintaining the balance between togetherness and private living.
In short, a thoughtfully planned structure, smart layout, and balance between shared and private living spaces make compound houses an appealing housing option.
Difference between normal house and a compound house
At first glance, one may not find any difference between a normal house and a compound house. But they have some differences that set them apart.
Below, we have broken down the differences in detail that can help you get a better understanding of these two:
Technical definition
A house is an independent structure that is designed to serve one family or household. It has the basic structure of a house that has everything that a family needs for living, bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, garage, and possibly a private yard.
In contrast to this, a compound house consists of multiple house units within one single property. A compound house is often enclosed by a boundary, such as a wall or fence.
Structure
The structure of a house is pretty simple, it usually has a single building. A basic house structure includes framing, foundation, main door, windows, backyard, and fenced garden. Inside a house, you will find designated spaces for living, dining, sleeping, and bathing, which are perfect for one household and family.
A compound house, however, has more than one building, all within the same property. The property is enclosed by a wall or fence, to create a safe and secure area. This house and units can be used as additional living spaces or servant quarters. All of these units are connected by pathways or shared communal spaces like gardens, parking lots, and courtyards.
Purpose
The purpose of a house is simple, to provide a private, independent living space for one family. It has all the basic needs and amenities for the family living there.
A compound on the other hand can serve more than one family and purpose. It can easily accommodate more than two families who want to stay close but have their own separate living spaces.
Ownership
A house is usually owned by one family or individual, which means they have full control over the property.
But for compound houses, there can be multiple owners, depending on the situations. Some compounds are entirely owned by one person, or designed for shared ownership among family members.
Privacy
A house is a personal space that caters to one family. Everything – from the backyard to the front porch and inside space, is meant to be used by one family or an individual.
While in the compound house, it offers a blend of privacy and community living. With separate entrances and individual houses/units to ensure residents can enjoy their personal space while living in a shared property.
Conclusion
To summarize, compound house isn’t a new concept and has been coming from years. A compound house is a great way to connect multiple individual property within the same land enclosure. The internal properties are generally enclosed by a wall, fence, or hedge.
On the other hand, a normal house is owned by a single property, built to serve an one family or an individual. A normal house has all the necessary things, within the same property.
