Great design is the key to maximising project value with New Build Semis or ‘Duplexes’
In recent years Archisoul Architects have seen an increase in clients looking to build a pair of new semi-detached homes, otherwise known as a ‘duplex’.
A duplex can be defined as a pair of houses with a partially shared structure. This can either be above/below each other or side by side with a shared party wall. Side by side is the more popular option as it feels like two houses rather than ground and first-floor apartments. People generally prefer to have a street-level front door and direct garden access for both homes and noise disturbance caused by footsteps or music from an upstairs neighbour is less of an issue.
Images above showing two recent duplex projects on the Northern Beaches of Sydney by Archisoul Architects.
As developable land becomes scarcer and ever more unaffordable, people are getting more creative with the land that is available.
Many of Sydney’s older homes were built on large plots when the land was at less of a premium. As renovation and heritage experts, Archisoul’s first instinct is to retain and improve these old homes, both for the environmental benefits of reducing waste and the contextual challenges that often lead to design inspiration. However, sometimes old buildings don’t have any particular design merit and have been poorly constructed, making it more efficient and economical to knock down and build new. When this is combined with excess site area, we consider the possibility of creating two homes on the one site.
The way people choose to live is changing, with a growing preference for smaller, more manageable gardens and well-proportioned, open-plan layouts instead of multiple, separate rooms. Duplexes can provide the space – indoor and outdoor – that people want more efficiently.
This use of the site gives clients the chance to maximise their land value, funding their own dream home by selling or renting the other house or perhaps jointly investing in a plot with a friend who’s also looking to build.
Multi-generational living is another rising trend. Often when retirees start thinking about downsizing, their children are looking to upgrade from an apartment and start a family. Investing together on a suitable site for two houses can save a huge amount of money and prove mutually beneficial. Having grandparents on-hand for free child-care is a bonus for busy parents and many grandparents are equally pleased to help!
Building two homes together is environmentally and financially advantageous. Shared resources reduce waste and the builder’s base costs. The same is true in the design phase where consultants fees can make up a significant portion of the overall cost. A single building site for two homes makes their job easier and cheaper. However, this doesn’t mean the two houses must be identical. Archisoul always responds to an individual brief for each side and finds interesting ways to make the two homes sit comfortably next to each other.
Orientation is critical to the design of duplexes. It is often presumed that one side of a duplex will be the “better” side, due to solar access or other site constraints such as traffic noise or views. This can present a challenge but clever design thinking will ensure both sides get the benefit of sunlight, views, breezes, etc.
The images above show how internal courtyards and double-height areas can increase the feeling of space and allow light to flood into central areas, without exceeding strict floor space allowances.
Archisoul uses advanced 3D modelling and rendering software to bring our designs to life at an early stage. This allows clients to fully visualise how they will live in the spaces and how we can optimise natural light throughout the year. Our rendering capabilities are also a useful tool for selling the dream to potential purchasers or investors prior to construction.
Archisoul’s creative embrace of every site’s innate challenges is what lends our projects a unique character or ‘soul’, adding value and saleability to the final design but also creating homes where people love to live.
When well designed, duplexes can offer the advantages of a garden without the high maintenance burden.
