It’s one of the first big decisions when you’re designing a new home, and it shapes almost everything that follows. Single storey or double storey? Both can make a wonderful home — the right answer depends on your block, your budget and how you want to live.

Here’s an honest comparison to help you decide.

Single storey homes

A single-storey home keeps everything on one level. No stairs, no upstairs-downstairs divide — just one connected flow of space.

What works well:

• Ease of living. Everything is accessible on one level, which suits young families, anyone with mobility considerations, and people planning to stay long-term.

• Often simpler to build. Without a second level, construction can be more straightforward.

• A sense of openness. Single-level living can feel relaxed and connected, especially when it opens out to the garden.

Worth considering:

• It needs more land. A single-storey home spreads out, so it uses more of your block’s footprint.

• Less separation. Living and sleeping areas share one level, which can mean less acoustic and visual separation.

Double storey homes

A double-storey home stacks living space over two levels, making the most of a smaller or more valuable block.

What works well:

• More home on less land. Ideal where land is tight or expensive — common across Melbourne’s established and growing suburbs alike.

• Natural zoning. Bedrooms upstairs, living downstairs — a clean separation that suits families and anyone who works from home.

• More garden. A smaller footprint can leave more outdoor space.

• Elevated outlook. Upper-level rooms can capture better light and views.

Worth considering:

• Generally a higher build cost. A second storey adds structure, a staircase and more complexity, which usually means a higher price than an equivalent single-storey home.

• Stairs. Wonderful for some, a consideration for others — particularly families with very young children or anyone thinking long-term.

Comparing the cost

As a general rule, a single-storey home is often cheaper to build per home than a comparable double storey, because a second level adds structural and construction complexity. But it’s not a simple comparison — a double-storey home on a smaller block may make far better financial sense than a single storey that demands a larger, more expensive piece of land.

The real question isn’t “which is cheaper to build” but “which delivers the right home on my block for my budget.” For the bigger picture, see our guide on how to choose a home design.

What about resale value?

Both hold value well when they’re designed thoughtfully and suit their location. In suburbs where families dominate and land is scarce, a well-designed double storey can be very desirable. In areas where single-level living is sought after, the reverse is true. Building something that suits its street is what protects value most.

Match it to your block

Your land often makes the decision for you:

• Wider blocks comfortably accommodate single-storey designs.

• Narrower or smaller blocks frequently favour double storey to deliver the space you need — see building on a narrow block.

• Orientation and outlook can tip the balance, especially if an upper level captures better light or views.

So, which is right for you?

Choose single storey if you value one-level living, have the land to spread out, and want a simpler build. Choose double storey if your block is tight, you want clear separation between living and sleeping zones, or you’d like to keep more of your land as garden.

There’s no wrong answer — only the right one for you.

Designed to suit your life and your land

At Vero Living, our designs span both single and double storey, so the choice comes down to what’s right for you rather than what we happen to offer. Browse our single storey home designs and double storey home designs to compare.

Explore our designs to see them side by side, or get in touch and we’ll help you weigh it up for your block.