Building your dream home is an exciting journey filled with decisions that will shape your living space for years to come. One of the most significant choices you’ll need to make is whether to go for a single-storey or a double-storey home. Each option has its own set of advantages, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, needs, and the block of land you have. To help you decide, we’ve broken down the pros and cons of each, so you can choose what suits you best.
Why Build a Single-Storey Home?
Single-storey homes are a popular choice for many, and it’s easy to see why. The biggest benefit of a single-level home is accessibility. Everything you need is on the same floor, making it ideal for families with young children or elderly members. With no stairs to navigate, a single-storey home provides greater safety and convenience for everyone, ensuring everyone can move around easily and without worry.
If you’re considering a single-storey design, the Fairlea 186 is a great example of a layout that suits family living. With a spacious open-plan living area, a dedicated dining space, and three generously-sized bedrooms, it provides a comfortable, easy-living design on one level. The Fairlea plan is designed to bring the family together, with no stairs to divide your space and easy access to outdoor areas, perfect for enjoying family time in your backyard.
Arkadian Homes specialises in large-scale acreage designs made for larger blocks, offering the perfect single-storey homes for expansive spaces.
For larger blocks, particularly those found in regional areas, a single-storey design can be the perfect way to maximise your space without the need to go vertical. It allows you to spread out across your block, with every room having direct access to the outdoors. Imagine having a living room that opens directly onto a garden or backyard—a feature that makes the most of larger, open plots.
Additionally, single-storey homes tend to be more cost-effective. With fewer materials needed for extra storeys and no stairs to build, single-storey homes can save you money during the build. And because everything is on the same level, energy efficiency can be easier to maintain, helping keep those utility bills in check.
However, one potential drawback is space. Single-storey homes may feel a little more compact if you have a smaller block. You might need to get creative with your design to make the most of the available area, especially if you need more bedrooms or separate living spaces.
Why Build a Double-Storey Home?
Double-storey homes are an excellent choice if you’re looking to maximise your living space without increasing your land footprint. By building upwards, you can have a more spacious home without needing a larger block. This makes them perfect for those looking for more room to spread out but working with a smaller plot of land.
If you’re after something with a bit more space and style, the Osprey Facade on the new Bridgeport 327 plan maximises your land and creating a home with incredible street appeal. A two-storey design allows for larger rooms, separate living zones, and the ability to have stunning views if you’re in a scenic area.
One of the biggest advantages of a double-storey home is the flexibility it offers. Typically, you’ll find living areas on the ground floor and bedrooms upstairs, giving each space its own distinct zone. This separation can create a sense of privacy, with the quiet retreat of bedrooms upstairs and the hustle and bustle of family life staying downstairs. For those who prefer reverse living, placing living areas on the upper floor can offer better natural light and potentially even views of your surroundings. The flexibility is yours!
A double-storey home also provides more room for multiple living spaces. With two or more levels, there’s the potential for separate areas for kids, adults, or guests to have their own space. This is perfect for larger families or those who enjoy hosting and entertaining. You could have a lounge area downstairs, while upstairs is dedicated to bedrooms, and maybe even a private study or office space.
If you’re building on a smaller block, a double-storey home allows you to maximise the use of your land, offering more space without increasing your footprint. This can also be more economical when it comes to the price of land, especially in regional areas where land may be more affordable than in larger cities.
While double-storey homes do tend to be more expensive to build due to the added materials and labour, the extra cost can often be offset by the savings you make on land. A two-storey design can allow you to have the home you want without the need for a much larger plot.
However, there are some things to consider. Double-storey homes can be more expensive to heat and cool due to the extra space and potential for heat rising to the upper floor. Proper insulation and air circulation can help, but it’s something to keep in mind. And, let’s face it, the stairs can be a bit of a workout, especially after a long day!
Making the Right Choice for You
At Arkadian Homes, most of our designs are suited for larger regional blocks, making single-storey homes an ideal choice for those looking to maximise their land space. If you’re after more space and prefer the benefits of a double-storey design, our Bridgeport 327 with the Osprey Facade could be just what you’re looking for. This design is perfect for a family who wants a spacious home, with room to spread out while still maintaining a cohesive living environment.
Ultimately, the choice between a single-storey and double-storey home comes down to your family’s needs, how you want to use your space, and what suits your land. Single-storey homes are perfect for easy access, open living, and large outdoor connections, while double-storey homes offer versatility and the ability to maximise smaller plots without compromising on space.
If you’re still unsure about which option is right for you, we’re here to help. We have a range of home designs that cater to both single-storey and double-storey preferences, and our expert team can guide you through the process of selecting the perfect layout for your family’s lifestyle.
Get in touch with us today to explore our range of designs and find the home that’s perfect for you.