When designing your dream home, one detail that can make a big impact on both curb appeal and functionality is the placement of your garage.
A side entry garage, where the garage doors face the side of the property rather than the street, offers a unique look and practical benefits.
Whether you’re considering a garage on the side of the house for aesthetic reasons or safety, understanding the pros, cons, and costs can help you make an informed decision.
What is a Side Entry Garage?
A side entry garage is designed so that the garage doors face the side of the home instead of the front.
This means vehicles enter and exit from a driveway that approaches the side, often requiring additional turning space.
From the street, you typically see the side wall of the garage rather than the doors themselves, which can enhance the home’s curb appeal.
Benefits of Side Entry Garages
There are several benefits to choosing a garage on the side of the house:
- Improved Curb Appeal: With the garage doors out of sight from the street, the home’s façade appears more elegant and less dominated by large doors.
- Increased Home Value: Many buyers perceive side entry garages as a premium feature.
- Better Street Presence: Architectural features like windows, landscaping, or a porch become the main focus from the curb.
- Flexible Driveway Design: Side driveways can incorporate extra parking space or a turnaround area.
Challenges of Side Entry Garages
While there are many advantages, there are also a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Lot Size Requirements: A side entry garage often needs more lot width to accommodate turning space.
- Higher Costs: The additional driveway paving and potential landscaping adjustments can add to the budget.
- Snow and Debris: During certain times of the year, side driveways may require more maintenance to keep them clear and accessible.
Features of a side entry garage
Common features include:
- Side-facing garage doors, often with decorative finishes.
- Extended driveways that allow for vehicle turning.
- Windows or architectural details on the front-facing wall for enhanced curb appeal.
- Additional storage or workspace areas, as these garages are often slightly larger than front entry designs.
Here are some examples of homes that Turner & Son have with a side entry garage in Oklahoma:
- Custom home in Arcadia, Oklahoma
- Custom home in Piedmont, Oklahoma
- Custom home in Luther, Oklahoma
- Custom home in Blanchard, Oklahoma
Cost of a Side Entry Garage
The cost to build a garage on the side of a house can vary widely depending on size, materials, and driveway requirements.
On average, you can expect to pay 10–20% more than a comparable front entry garage due to the added paving and potential grading work.
If you’re building from scratch, discuss placement early in the design phase to optimize both cost and functionality.
How Side Entry Garages Offer Safer Exits
One often-overlooked benefit of side entry garages is safety.
When pulling out of a side-facing garage, drivers typically have a better line of sight to approaching vehicles and pedestrians, especially if the driveway is angled toward the street.
This can reduce the risk of accidents and make daily comings and goings less stressful.
Build a Side Entry Garage with an Oklahoma custom home builder
If you’re exploring the idea of a side entry garage for your new home, working with the right builder ensures you get both beauty and functionality.
At Turner & Son Homes, we specialize in building on your land and designing details that fit your lifestyle. From curb appeal to a 3 car side entry garage to a driveway layout, we’ll help you think through every angle so your side entry garage enhances both your home’s look and your day-to-day convenience.
Our team guides you step-by-step, keeping the process smooth, transparent, and aligned with your budget. Whether you’re still comparing options or ready to commit to your design, we’re here to help you build with confidence.
Ready to see how a side entry garage could elevate your future home? Contact Turner & Son Homes today and let’s get started.
Frequently Asked Questions about side entry garages in oklahoma
What is a side entry garage?
A side entry garage is designed so the doors face the side of the house instead of the street. Cars enter and exit from a driveway that approaches the side of the property, which often requires extra turning space.
This layout hides the doors from the curb view and creates a more polished look for the home’s exterior.
What are the benefits of a side entry garage?
The main advantages include improved curb appeal since garage doors aren’t visible from the street, higher resale value as buyers see it as an upgrade, and more flexibility in the home’s front design.
Landscaping, windows, and porches become the visual focus instead of large garage doors.
What challenges come with a side entry garage?
Side entry garages typically need a wider lot to allow vehicles to turn in and out comfortably. They also come with higher costs because the driveway is longer and may require extra paving or grading.
In some climates, side driveways may also need more upkeep for snow, leaves, or debris.
How much does it cost to build a side entry garage?
Building a side entry garage usually costs about 10–20% more than a front entry garage. The exact price depends on the lot size, driveway length, and materials used. Planning the garage location early in the design process helps keep costs in check.
Are side entry garages safer?
Yes. A side entry garage can improve safety by giving drivers a clearer line of sight when pulling out. With fewer blind spots, it’s easier to see oncoming cars, pedestrians, and cyclists, reducing the risk of accidents.