Top duplex design trends for Sydney homes in 2025 

As Sydney’s population expands and the cost of living continues to bite, duplex home designs are becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and investors who want to make the most of a block of land in any suburb.
Offering a balance of style, functionality and space efficiency, duplexes are ideal for multi-generational living or rental opportunities. However, when it comes to affordable duplex designs for Sydney, there are infinite options.
If you want your place to retain its value, it needs to be built and designed for modern living. In 2024 and 2025, duplex design trends Sydney are all about blending contemporary aesthetics with sustainable and luxurious features.
Here’s a closer look at the top duplex designs for 2024 and 2025.

 TABLE OF CONTENTS 

  1. Sustainable duplex design in Sydney    
  2. Open-plan living and flexible spaces    
  3. Luxury duplex homes in Sydney    
  4. Emphasis on outdoor living    
  5. Personalised facades    
  6. Rapid approval duplexes (CDC)    
    • What is CDC Approval?    
    • Why Are CDC Duplex Designs a Trend?    
    • What Duplex Designs Qualify for CDC?    
  7. Smart technology integration    
Want to see the top duplex designs for 2024 and 2025? Talk to Dixon Homes Sydney    

 DUPLEX DESIGN TRENDS SYDNEY 2024 & 2025 

 1. SUSTAINABLE DUPLEX DESIGN IN SYDNEY 

With sustainability now a top priority, sustainable duplex design Sydney is leading the way in 2025. Homeowners are embracing eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient features and designs that minimise environmental impact.
Key elements include:
  • Passive design principles: This comes down to the direction different rooms face, in order to optimise natural light and ventilation.
  • Sustainable materials: Recycled timber, low-VOC paints, and energy-efficient glass.
    By focusing on eco-conscious choices, these modern duplex trends combine style with environmental responsibility.
  • Double glazing: While it involves a higher initial investment, double glazed windows and doors can help improve temperature consistency so you spend less on air conditioning.
Sustainability isn’t only a trend. New homes have to follow ever-evolving sustainability standards. Talk to your home builder about whether your duplex will comply with these government requirements.

 2. OPEN-PLAN LIVING AND FLEXIBLE SPACES 

Open-plan layouts continue to dominate the most on-trend Sydney duplex designs 2024 and 2025. Spacious, light-filled kitchen/living/dining areas are perfect for entertaining or spending quality time with family.
Flexible spaces are also in high demand, offering versatility for home offices, children’s retreats or room for guests to sleep. This adaptability makes duplexes a smart choice for families.
If you can include an open plan living area and an additional ‘multipurpose room’, your family (or your tenants) will have room to grow and enjoy privacy when it’s needed. Our Rosewood duplex design offers this, with an upstairs breakout space for children.

 3. LUXURY DUPLEX HOMES IN SYDNEY 

Duplex living doesn’t mean you have to make sacrifices. Luxury duplex homes Sydney offer unmatched sophistication and elegance.
In 2025, expect to see more duplexes with:
  • High ceilings and large windows: Enhancing the sense of space and light.
  • Designer kitchens: Featuring premium appliances, sleek cabinetry and stone benchtops.
  • Deluxe parents’ retreats: The main bedroom of a luxury duplex home gives you a walk-in robe and ensuite bathroom.
  • Additional powder rooms: A convenient downstairs toilet saves you from constantly heading up the stairs. 
  • Walk-in pantry: This is the latest trend for Sydney living, giving you room to store food and kitchen appliances out of sight 
  • Internal garage: No more cruising around looking for parking on the street or making a mad dash to the front door through the rain. Connected garages give you storage space and undercover parking. 
  • Storage: Living in a duplex shouldn’t mean compromising on storage. Our Birchwood design, for example, includes garage storage and linen closets.
By incorporating these elements of top duplex designs, you get a luxurious lifestyle that doesn’t compromise on comfort or convenience.
Read more: How to maximise land value with a duplex build in Sydney.

 4. EMPHASIS ON OUTDOOR LIVING 

Sydney’s climate lends itself to outdoor living, and duplex home design Sydney is reflecting this more than ever. Expect to see:
  • Seamless indoor-outdoor connections: Sliding glass doors open to alfresco dining areas.
  • Landscaped courtyards: Private green spaces give you a low-maintenance place to relax.

5. PERSONALISED FACADES

Innovative duplex architecture Sydney gives you the optimal layout and allows you to add your own touches. Choose your design and your facade to make your duplex feel like one of a kind.
Read more: Your step by step guide to build a duplex in Sydney.

6. RAPID APPROVAL DUPLEXES (CDC) 

One of the most exciting developments in Sydney duplex designs 2024 and 2025 is the growing eligibility for Complying Development Certificate (CDC) approval. Unlike the traditional Development Application (DA) process, which can be lengthy and complex, CDC approval provides a streamlined pathway for property owners looking to build their duplex faster.

WHAT IS CDC APPROVAL? 

CDC approval is a faster and simpler alternative to DA approval, allowing certain duplex designs to bypass council approvals if they meet specific state planning requirements. This process is handled through a private certifier, significantly reducing wait times and administrative hurdles.

WHY ARE CDC DUPLEX DESIGNS A TREND? 

  • Quicker build times: With CDC approval, property owners can move from planning to construction much sooner, making it an attractive option for those who value efficiency.
  • Predictability: The strict design standards for CDC ensure fewer delays and disputes compared to the DA process.
  • Cost savings: A faster approval process often results in lower holding costs and quicker returns on investment.

WHAT DUPLEX DESIGNS QUALIFY FOR CDC? 

To be eligible for CDC approval, duplex designs must adhere to specific criteria, including setbacks, maximum heights, and floor space ratios. Modern duplex trends Sydney are increasingly incorporating these standards, making it easier for property owners to take advantage of this streamlined process.
By choosing a duplex home design Sydney optimised for CDC approval, you can reduce the time and stress associated with your build.

 7. SMART TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION 

Incorporating smart technology is a major focus in modern duplex trends Sydney. Homeowners are prioritising convenience, security, and energy efficiency with features like:
  • Automated lighting and climate control
  • Smart locks and security cameras
  • Integrated home hubs for controlling appliances
These innovative and often surprisingly affordable additions elevate your living experience and add significant long-term value.

 WANT TO SEE THE TOP DUPLEX DESIGNS FOR 2024 AND 2025? TALK TO DIXON HOMES SYDNEY 

Whether you’re designing a duplex for your family or as an investment, the top duplex designs 2024 and 2025 in Sydney offer something for everyone. From luxury duplex homes Sydney to sustainable and more cost-effective options, there’s no shortage of trends to explore.
Want to know what’s possible for your property? 
Our Experts will give you the answers. Enquire today.

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About Ed Campbell

With a decade of industry experience, Ed is a leading authority in duplex development.

Renowned for his expertise in Complying Development Certificate (CDC) compliance, Ed's track record and deep understanding of regulations make him a trusted advisor in the field. Clients rely on Ed’s guidance and dedication to ensure successful outcomes in every project.

Find out more.



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