Everything You Need to Know Before Building A Two-Storey House

October 27, 2024

Building a two storey house has become increasingly popular among homeowners, especially in bustling areas where space is a real concern. As our lives get busier and families grow, the need for more living space becomes more important. A two-storey home is an excellent solution, allowing you to maximise your living space without taking up extra land. In fact, building a two-storey house could be one of the best decisions you can make as it offers numerous benefits.

In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about building two-storey house, including the pros and cons and various considerations that will help you make the right decision.

Building a Two Storey House

For many homeowners, the dream to build 2 storey house is all about having more space, more style, and added comfort for families. These homes accommodate growing needs—whether for children, a home office, or simply a more spacious living environment.

One of the key advantages of a two-storey design is how these homes allow you to maximise your land use. By going vertical, you get all the room you need without expanding your home’s footprint while adding a chic and modern feel to your property.

However, it’s important to note that while a two-storey house has many potential benefits, it's best to weigh them up before making the final decision. We’ll touch on the specific benefits and challenges in the following sections.

Why You Should Build 2 Storey House

A two-storey house offers a range of advantages that can enhance both your living experience and the functionality of your home. Let’s dive into some of the top reasons why going vertical might be the best decision for your new build!

Optimised Space

Building upwards makes the most of your land. You get more living areas without needing a bigger plot of land, which is perfect for areas where space is limited.

Noise Reduction

One of the best perks of having two levels is the natural separation of noise between floors. Whether it's the kids playing downstairs or your own peaceful retreat upstairs, the sound buffer can be a game-changer.

Natural Light

Building a two storey house typically needs more windows and higher vantage points, which allows for better natural light use. Not only does this brighten up your space, but it can also help reduce energy costs by cutting down on lighting and heating.

Enhanced Views

If you’re lucky enough to live in a scenic area, a second storey can provide stunning views that you simply wouldn’t get with a single-storey house. It’s like having your own private lookout – perfect for taking in sunrises, and sunsets, or just enjoying your surroundings.

Increased Property Value

Investing in a well-designed two-storey home can significantly increase your property value. Building a two storey house is a solid investment that not only improves your lifestyle but also pays off in the long run if you ever decide to sell.

More Design Flexibility

When you build 2 storey house, it offers more room for creativity. You gain greater flexibility with layouts, so you can really make the space your own, customising it to suit your needs and preferences.

Separation of Living Spaces

Keeping common areas downstairs and private spaces upstairs helps create a more functional home. It’s ideal for families who want a bit of separation between social and quiet zones.

Better Ventilation

Two-storey homes tend to have better airflow, especially if designed well. The natural rise and fall of warm and cool air through the house can help keep the interior more comfortable throughout the year.

Cons of Building Two Storey House

Like all things, there are a few downsides to consider when building a two-storey home.

Higher Construction Costs

Building a two-storey home can be more expensive due to the extra materials and design complexity. It’s worth budgeting for a bit more to ensure everything’s done right.

Longer Build Time

With the added complexity, building a two-storey home typically takes longer than a single-storey house. You’ll need to factor in a longer construction timeline when planning.

Increased Maintenance

With two floors comes more maintenance. From keeping everything clean to handling any potential repairs on the upper level, it can be more time-consuming to manage.

Staircase Challenges

Stairs can be a hassle, especially for elderly family members or anyone with mobility issues. It’s important to factor this into your design and lifestyle needs.

Heating and Cooling Costs

Due to the larger space and height differences, heating and cooling a two-storey home can sometimes lead to higher utility bills. Proper insulation and air circulation can help, it’s worth considering when budgeting for ongoing costs.

Considerations Before Building Two Storey House

Before diving into building your dream two-storey home, there are several factors to keep in mind to make sure the process goes smoothly and the end result meets your expectations.

Stairs

If you're building upwards, stairs are a must, but they might not be practical for everyone. Families with young kids or elderly members should consider safety and ease of movement, so it’s worth considering a practical and safe stair design.

Number of Rooms

Think about how many bedrooms and bathrooms to suit your family’s current needs, but also think ahead. Growing families or the possibility of having guests stay over should be factored into your room count.

Timeline

Building two storey house can take time. Be sure to plan accordingly and factor in any delays that might occur during construction.

Budget

It’s easy to get excited and dream big, but setting a budget is crucial. Building a two-storey home typically costs more, so make sure you're prepared for the additional expenses.

Goals

Think about your long-term goals for the home. Is this your forever home, or do you plan to sell in a few years? Understanding your goals helps you design the perfect space.

Location

Consider the location of your block and how your new two-storey home will fit into the surrounding area. Will it complement the neighbourhood or stand out like a sore thumb?

Size

Make sure the overall size of the home suits your property size. A two-storey home allows you to maximise floor space without taking over the entire block, but make sure it’s not too large for the land.

Layout

A smart layout is key to making your home functional and comfortable. Think about how rooms will flow and how spaces like living areas, kitchens, and bedrooms will work with your lifestyle.

The Right Builder

It’s essential to choose the right builder who understands the ins and outs of building a two-storey home. Prestige Renovations is known for quality craftsmanship and has a proven track record for delivering high-quality homes.

Materials and Design

Choose materials that are both durable and stylish. You want a home that will not only look good but last a long time.

Energy Efficiency

With the rising cost of energy, it’s smart to include energy-efficient custom-home features like proper insulation, solar panels, and double-glazed windows in your build. Not only will this help the environment, but it’ll also save you money on utility bills in the long run.

Planning and Approvals Required

Don’t forget to check local council regulations and get the necessary approvals before you start building. Understanding these early on will streamline construction and avoid delays.

Building a Two Storey House Soon? Choose the Expertise of Prestige Renovations!

Building two storey house comes with heaps of benefits, such as optimising space, enhancing property value, and improving views and ventilation. However, it’s essential to consider construction costs, timelines, and maintenance challenges to prepare for the journey ahead.

At Prestige Homes and Granny Flats, our experienced team is dedicated to navigating the unique challenges of constructing custom homes. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality craftsmanship and maintaining open communication throughout the process, ensuring your vision is realised from design to completion.

If you're considering a granny flat or two-storey home, talk to our experts for professional advice and craftsmanship tailored to your needs.

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What Is a Granny Flat? Full Guide for Australian Homeowners

October 27, 2025

Granny flats are no longer just for grandparents. Across Australia, they’re being built as rental units, guest accommodation, or smart add-ons for multigenerational families. Climbing property prices and limited housing supply have made granny flats an attractive option for homeowners seeking flexibility and extra income. Before you build, there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. Before you start asking what granny flats are and how to build one, remember there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. What are Granny Flats? So what is a granny flat? The answer is simple. It’s a small, self-contained home built on the same block as a main residence. Think of it as a compact version of a regular house, usually including a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and one or two bedrooms. Most states cap their size at around 60 m², though exact limits vary. In Queensland, they’re often called “secondary dwellings,” while in Victoria, you’ll hear “dependent person’s unit.” No matter the name, the idea is the same: extra living space with independence built in. What Are Granny Flats Called in Perth? Across Perth and the wider WA region, granny flats are formally classified as “ancillary dwellings” under local council planning regulations. They’re permitted on most residential-zoned blocks that meet the minimum land size, with a maximum floor area of up to 70 m². A major difference in WA is who can occupy them. Since 2015, Perth’s rules have allowed ancillary dwellings to be rented to non-family members, giving homeowners more flexibility for rental income or family use. Councils such as the City of Perth, City of Stirling, and City of Joondalup apply these state planning guidelines, though it’s always worth checking your local council’s requirements before starting. In Perth, granny flats can take several forms. They may be built as a detached unit, joined to the main house, or created by converting existing structures like garages. This flexibility makes them an appealing way to add space, boost property value, or create rental income without leaving your current suburb. What Is Granny Flat: Legal and Planning Rules You Need to Know To fully understand what granny flats are, you also need to follow council regulations that vary from state to state. Zoning and Land Use Your block must be in the correct residential zone to allow an ancillary dwelling. Perth councils set these rules, so it’s important to confirm land use requirements before drawing up plans. Size Limits & Design In most parts of Australia, granny flats are limited to 60 m². In Perth and wider WA, ancillary dwellings can be up to 70 m², provided they meet council design codes for height, setbacks, and appearance. Approval Processes Some states require both planning and building permits, while others fast-track approval if certain criteria are met. In WA, approvals generally move faster when plans follow the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) . Rental & Occupancy Rules Unlike some states, Perth homeowners can lease ancillary dwellings to non-family members. Since the 2015 policy change, this flexibility has allowed granny flats to serve as either rental income properties or extra family space.

Step-by-Step Custom Home Build Checklist

October 24, 2025

Building your own custom home in Australia is exciting, but it can sometimes feel like you’ve got a lot on your plate. From design choices and council approvals to budgets and timelines, there are plenty of moving parts that can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why having a clear checklist is important. We’ll guide you through the key steps in building a custom home checklist. Whether it is your first build or an upgrade to suit your lifestyle, our team helps you stay organised and confident right through to the final handover. Building a Custom Home Checklist Think of a custom home checklist as your blueprint for staying organised. It turns the chaos of construction into a sequence of manageable steps. Without a checklist, you could face delays, unexpected costs and unnecessary stress. A detailed custom home build checklist ensures a smooth, cost-effective and worry-free build. It’s not just for first-time owners either. Even seasoned homeowners upgrading to a custom space benefit from a structured approach that keeps the build on track and aligned with their vision.