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Decision Guide

Single Storey vs Double Storey

Which home style suits you?

Your choice between single and double storey affects everything from cost to lifestyle to resale value. There's no universally right answer. It depends on your block, budget, family, and preferences.

Single Storey

Pros

  • Generally cheaper to build per square metre
  • Easier to live in long-term (no stairs)
  • Better suited for young families and elderly
  • Simpler construction with fewer complications
  • Easier and cheaper to maintain
  • Better indoor-outdoor flow potential
  • No noise transfer between floors
  • Faster to build typically

Cons

  • Requires larger block footprint
  • Less privacy from neighbours
  • No separation between living and sleeping zones
  • May not suit narrow blocks
  • Larger roof and slab area (higher costs for these)
  • Less impressive street presence in some designs
  • Views limited to ground level
  • Can sprawl if not designed well

Best For

  • • Larger blocks (450sqm+)
  • • Families with young children
  • • Buyers planning to age in place
  • • Those wanting easier maintenance
  • • People preferring all living on one level

Double Storey

Pros

  • More home on less land
  • Better suited for narrow blocks
  • Separation between living and sleeping zones
  • Potential for views from upper level
  • Often more impressive street presence
  • Better privacy on upper floor
  • Smaller roof and slab area
  • Can be more cost-effective on expensive land

Cons

  • 10-20% more expensive per sqm to build
  • Stairs can be challenging for some
  • Noise transfer between floors
  • Upper floor can be hot in summer
  • More complex construction
  • Scaffolding adds to costs
  • Longer build time typically
  • May require structural upgrades to slab

Best For

  • • Narrow blocks (under 14m wide)
  • • Expensive land where footprint matters
  • • Teenagers wanting bedroom separation
  • • Blocks with view potential
  • • Those wanting impressive facades

Cost Comparison

Category
Single
Double
Note
Build cost per sqm
$1,800 - $2,800
$2,000 - $3,200
Double storey typically 10-20% more per sqm
200sqm home (build only)
$360,000 - $560,000
$400,000 - $640,000
Premium for double storey structural requirements
Site costs
Standard
+$5,000 - $15,000
Double storey may need upgraded slab

Common Questions

Single storey is typically cheaper per square metre (10-20% less). However, if land is expensive and you need more space, double storey can be more cost-effective overall because you're using less land footprint.

Still Not Sure?

Every situation is different. Talk to us about your specific circumstances and we'll help you work out which option makes sense for you.

1300 885 919

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