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Writer's pictureTiffany

Build a Custom Design Home for a Growing Family: Duplex vs. Single-Storey

When it comes to creating a home for a growing family, designing the right type of dwelling is crucial. . In our last discussion, "Architect Designed Home Tips: Essential Features for Your Growing Family," we explored essential elements that contribute to a functional and nurturing family environment, such as the importance of a spacious yard, family-friendly living room, sufficient bedrooms for every family member, an open-plan kitchen, and ample storage. Today, we build upon these foundational principles as we delve into the comparison between duplex and single-storey homes. This analysis will help you understand how each home type aligns with the needs and dynamics of a growing family, using the insights from our previous blog as a guiding compass.

Duplexes and single-storey homes are two popular options, each with unique advantages. Let’s delve into how these options fare in terms of space, comfort, and design, especially when considering a custom home design approach.

a duplex built by custom home builders in Sydney

Duplex: A Tale of Two Homes

A duplex is essentially two homes in one structure, offering a blend of privacy and proximity. This design is perfect for families who need separate living areas within the same property.

Advantages of Building a Duplex:

  • Custom Design Home Advantage: A custom design duplex enables each unit to be tailored to the specific needs of family members or potential renters.

  • Flexibility and Income: Live in one unit and rent out the other, providing a source of income.

  • Space Efficiency: Ideal for urban settings where land space might be limited.

Architectural Considerations:

  • Soundproofing and Privacy: An architect builder can incorporate soundproofing materials and design strategies to ensure privacy between units.

  • Customization: An architect designed home in a duplex format allows for personalization in each unit, matching the individual needs and style preferences of its occupants.





Single-Storey Dwelling: Comfort and Accessibility

Single-storey homes are celebrated for their ease of access and open-plan designs, making them ideal for families with young children or elderly members.

Advantages of a Single-Storey Home:

  • Safety and Accessibility: With no stairs, these homes are safer for children and more accessible for all.

  • Ease of Maintenance and Living: Less complex structures make for easier maintenance and cleaning.

Architectural Considerations:

  • Expansive and Open Design: An architect can design a single-storey home with large, open living spaces, fostering a sense of togetherness for the family.

  • Integration with Outdoor Spaces: The design can seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for family activities.

a custom design single-storey dwelling built by custom home builders in Sydney

a custom design single-storey dwelling built by custom home builders in Sydney

a custom design single-storey dwelling built by custom home builders in Sydney

Custom Home Design Approach: Tailoring to Your Family’s Needs

Whether building a duplex or a single-storey home guided by a skilled architect or custom home builder, ensures that the space is tailored to the unique dynamics and needs of your growing family.

Role of the Architect Builder:

  • Understanding Family Dynamics: An architect builder can grasp the nuances of your family's lifestyle, ensuring the design supports your day-to-day life.

  • Future-Proofing: They can also plan for future changes, such as family expansion or evolving needs, making your home adaptable over time.

Custom Home Builder Collaboration:

  • Quality and Craftsmanship: A custom home builder brings the architect's vision to life, ensuring the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

  • Personalization: They can adapt construction techniques and materials to fit your specific requirements, be it for a duplex or a single-storey home.

Comparing Duplex and Single-Storey Homes


Duplex

Single-Storey

Space Utilization

Ideal for maximizing limited urban land

Offers sprawling layouts, better suited for larger plots

Privacy

Provides privacy within close proximity, useful for multi-generational living

Offers privacy within a single unit, with a more communal living experience

Accessibility

May have stairs, which could be a concern for some families

Highly accessible, with no stairs to navigate

Investment and Value

Offers potential rental income, making it a good investment

Appeals to a broad market, maintaining good resale value

Lifestyle Fit

Suitable for families who need separate spaces within the same property

Ideal for those who prioritize ease of movement and open-plan living

Choosing between a duplex and a single-storey home for your growing family is a decision that revolves around your lifestyle, future plans, and personal preferences. Utilizing the expertise of an architect and a custom home builder can significantly enhance the process, ensuring that your new home is not just a structure but a reflection of your family’s needs and dreams. Whether you opt for the shared yet separate spaces of a duplex or the accessible, open design of a single-storey dwelling, a custom design home approach will create a living space where your family can thrive.


At the heart of a successful family home is the collaboration between a skilled architect and a dedicated custom home builder. Understanding this, our team of architects and home builders at Archbuild specializes in architect designed homes that are tailored to the unique dynamics of your family. Thinking about a duplex or a single-storey dwelling? We're here to help. Our team focuses on making each part of your home special, perfect for your family's life today and ready to change as you all grow. Get in touch with us at Archbuild, and let's start building a custom design home that grows with your family.


1 Comment


M M
M M
Jan 30

Well done. Thank you everyone 👏👏👏

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