Single Storey vs. Double Storey House Guide

Choosing the perfect home is one of life’s most exciting and significant decisions. Among the many considerations, one of the biggest questions that homebuyers and builders face is:
Should I go for a single storey or a double storey house?

Both single and double storey homes come with their own advantages, trade-offs, and design possibilities. The right choice for you will depend on your budget, lifestyle, family needs, block size, long-term goals, and even aesthetic preferences.

In this detailed guide, we break down the pros, cons, and key differences between single storey and double storey houses, helping you make a confident and informed decision.

What Is a Single Storey House?

A single storey house is a residential structure that spreads out on one level. All the living areas — bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, living room — are situated on the same floor.

✅ Pros of Single Storey Houses

1. Accessibility 

   • Ideal for elderly residents, young children, or anyone with mobility issues. 
   • No stairs mean less risk of accidents and easier navigation. 

2. Maintenance & Cleaning 

   • Easier to clean and maintain, especially for people who want to avoid climbing stairs or dragging vacuums up and down. 

3. Energy Efficiency 

   • Typically cheaper to heat or cool due to more consistent air flow and no need to regulate temperatures across levels. 

4. Faster and Often Cheaper to Build 

   • Construction is often quicker and requires fewer materials compared to a double storey of the same size. 

5. Open Plan Living 

   • Easier to create spacious, flowing living areas and better interaction between rooms. 

6. Higher Resale in Older Suburbs 

   • In areas with aging populations, single storey homes often attract premium resale value. 

❌ Cons of Single Storey Houses

1. Larger Land Requirement 

   • To accommodate the same number of rooms, a single storey requires more land — potentially costly in urban areas. 

2. Less Privacy 

   • With all rooms on the same level, it can be harder to separate quiet and active areas. 

3. Smaller Backyard 

   • On a standard suburban block, a single storey may leave you with less outdoor space. 

4. Limited Views 

   • You lose the potential for elevated views that a second floor can provide. 

What Is a Double Storey House?

A double storey house has two distinct floors, with living and sleeping areas often separated. Typically, common areas (like the living room and kitchen) are on the ground floor, while bedrooms are upstairs.

✅ Pros of Double Storey Houses

1. Maximizes Smaller Blocks 

   • Great for urban or suburban areas with limited land — you can build up, not out. 

2. More Privacy 

   • Sleeping areas upstairs allow for quieter, private zones, separate from the hustle and bustle of downstairs. 

3. Better Views 

   • The upper level can offer scenic views and better natural light. 

4. Larger Backyard 

   • With a smaller ground-level footprint, you retain more usable outdoor space for gardens, patios, or a pool. 

5. Impressive Street Appeal 

   • Two-storey homes often have greater architectural drama and presence. 

6. Separate Zones for Living 

   • Ideal for larger families or multi-generational households. 

❌ Cons of Double Storey Houses

1. More Expensive to Build 

   • Requires more materials, structural support, and often more time — increasing overall costs. 

2. Accessibility Challenges 

   • Stairs can be a safety concern for kids, seniors, or people with injuries or disabilities. 

3. Higher Energy Bills 

   • Two levels may mean more HVAC zones, leading to higher heating and cooling costs. 

4. Cleaning & Maintenance 

   • Stairs complicate routine cleaning, and maintaining exterior windows or gutters on the second floor requires more effort (or a professional). 

5. Noise Travel 

   • Sound may travel between floors, especially if not properly insulated.

Single Storey vs. Double Storey: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Factors to Consider Before Deciding

1. Family Composition

• Young children? Aging parents? Think about who will live there now — and in 10 years. 

2. Budget

• A double storey will generally cost more to build and maintain. 
• Include stairs, extra structural supports, and longer build times in your cost analysis. 

3. Block Size & Shape

• A narrow block may make a single storey impractical without sacrificing outdoor space. 

4. Long-Term Liveability

• Consider mobility issues and resale value as you age or plan to sell. 

5. Lifestyle Preferences

• Entertain often? Value outdoor space? Crave a home office with a view? Your lifestyle should shape your choice.

Building Trends & Market Preferences

In recent years, urban development and population growth have led to increased demand for double storey homes, especially in cities where land is scarce and expensive.

However, in outer suburbs and rural areas, single storey homes remain more popular due to larger land availability and simpler construction.

Ultimately, preferences can vary by region, demographics, and even cultural expectations.

Expert Tips

• Think Future-Proof: Choose a layout that can evolve with your family. 
• Get a Site Analysis: Let an architect or builder assess your land before deciding. 
• Optimize Floor Plans: Don’t just go for size — choose efficient, livable designs. 
• Balance Design & Budget: A well-designed single storey can outshine a poorly designed double storey any day.

Conclusion: Which One Is Right for You?

There’s no universal “best” choice when it comes to single vs. double storey homes. It’s all about what fits your lifestyle, land, budget, and vision for the future.

If you value ease of movement, affordability, and simplicity, a single storey may be ideal.

If you want to maximize space on a small block, enjoy separation of living zones, or capture better views, then a double storey might be the way to go.

Before making a final decision, consult with builders, architects, or designers who can help tailor a solution that meets both your needs and your dreams.

🛠 Need Help Designing Your Perfect Home?

Whether you’re leaning toward a single or double storey home, working with the right house builder can bring your vision to life. From floor planning to final finishes, make every square metre count.