The Ultimate Guide to Duplex Designs in Sydney

Searching for duplex designs in Sydney? Discover the best options for almost any type of block. 
This guide explains the benefits of building a duplex on your site, shares our most popular duplex designs and uncovers how the top duplex builders in Sydney give you more for less.
Psst… Want a VIP Site Visit from our Design + Build Specialist to find out if your Sydney block is suitable for a duplex? Call 1800 387 539 or contact us here.
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KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Dixon Homes Sydney offers duplex designs that are stylish and practical, catering to different block sizes, investor goals and family needs. We have some clear best-sellers that our clients love.
  • The best duplex designs incorporate open plan living, off-street parking and outdoor living.
  • Duplex homes maximise property value by providing the option to rent out one unit, creating additional income and offering flexible living arrangements for families.
  • Choosing the right builder is essential for a successful duplex project. Local expertise and experience can streamline the building process and ensure high-quality outcomes.
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 TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Sydney duplexes showcase the pinnacle of modern home design and innovative layouts. Designs are not just about aesthetics; they are crafted to optimise living spaces, enhance your lifestyle and maximise your capital gains. From sleek, modern duplexes to more traditional-looking double-storey homes, there’s a duplex design and a floorplan to suit every taste.

One of the standout features of the best duplex homes is open living areas, which create a sense of spaciousness and flow regardless of square footage. Whether you prefer a one-storey or a double-storey duplex for your project, you’ll find options that come with up to five bedrooms, ensuring ample space for families, measured in square metres.
Builders like Dixon Homes set the benchmark in the industry. We have created exceptional duplex designs for families and investors since 1959. Our duplex home designs are stylish and accessible, catering to diverse budget levels while maintaining high standards of quality.
We stick to two promises: Fixed Price Means Fixed Price, and Giving You More for Less. 

WHAT MAKES A GOOD DUPLEX DESIGN IN SYDNEY?

A well-designed duplex maximises space, functionality and privacy while delivering strong investment potential. The layout should ensure both residences have practical and independent living areas, with separate entrances and minimal shared walls to enhance privacy. 
Open-plan living and smart storage solutions can make each dwelling feel more spacious, while high-quality materials and finishes add value and durability. A thoughtful design considers natural light, ventilation, and energy efficiency to create a comfortable, cost-effective home.
In terms of bedrooms, they don’t all have to be upstairs. Having a ground floor bedroom can make hosting senior guests or having an older family member living in the property easier. 
An internal garage and covered outdoor area don’t have to be sacrificed for duplex living! These are included in many of Dixon Homes Sydney’s duplex designs
You have to think about looks as well. Street appeal and integration with the surrounding neighbourhood are also essential elements of a good duplex design. The facade should be visually appealing yet cohesive with the area’s character, ensuring the property enhances rather than disrupts the streetscape. Meanwhile, landscaping must be carefully planned to provide convenience and security for both occupants while maintaining a welcoming and attractive exterior.
Finally, a well-planned duplex should align with local council regulations and zoning requirements to improve long-term value and avoid costly approval delays. A design that considers the land’s dimensions, slope, and orientation can make the most of available space while complying with building codes and local rules.

 SYDNEY'S MOST POPULAR DUPLEX DESIGNS FOR MULTI-GENRATIONAL FAMILIES AND INVESTORS

Modern duplex designs in Sydney offer a practical solution to accommodate various age groups under one roof and enable property owners to maximise the value of their investment. 
At Dixon Homes Sydney, we specialise in designing and building high-quality duplex homes that cater to a variety of family needs and investment goals. Whether you’re looking for a modern home for extended family living or an investment property with dual rental potential, our extensive range of duplex designs can provide the perfect solution.
Not sure what your ideal duplex design in Sydney looks like? Explore our most popular floorplans, suitable for blocks from 15 metres wide and above: 

1. Rosewood 

Large sliding doors lead to a private patio, ideal for alfresco dining. The ground floor includes a versatile fourth bedroom or home office with a stylish bathroom. The upper floor houses a master suite with a walk-in wardrobe and luxurious ensuite, two additional bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, a family bathroom, and a secondary living area.

2. Birchwood

This duplex design for Sydney properties is a meticulously crafted 3-bedroom duplex designed to meet NSW CDC standards, embodying modern aesthetics and practical functionality. 
The layout features a versatile front room, leading to an open-plan living area that seamlessly integrates the living, dining, and kitchen spaces. The kitchen is equipped with high-quality appliances and an island bench, complemented by large sliding doors that open to a private patio. Upstairs, the master suite includes a walk-in wardrobe and sleek ensuite, while two additional bedrooms with built-in wardrobes share a stylish family bathroom. 
An additional upstairs living area provides a cozy space for relaxation. The Birchwood offers a flexible and elegant design, ideal for contemporary family living.

3. Silver Birch

The Silverbirch is an expansive 5-bedroom duplex, extending the Willow design to a luxurious 695m² total area, offering the grandeur of a single-dwelling home. Each side spans 347m² and features a ground-floor bedroom with a walk-in robe and two-way bathroom, alongsidfe a grand open-plan living area that seamlessly integrates the living room, dining space, and upgraded kitchen with a large walk-in pantry. An additional ground-floor living area and a generous patio enhance the home's flexibility and outdoor connection. Upstairs, the master suite offers a walk-in wardrobe and stylish ensuite, complemented by four additional bedrooms, including one with a walk-in robe, and an expansive living area for versatile use. The Silverbirch blends space and functionality, delivering a refined living experience.

4. Maple 

The Maple duplex, designed for a 17m block and compliant with NSW CDC standards, offers a blend of modern elegance and functional efficiency. 
The ground floor features a front bedroom suitable as a guest room or home office and an expansive open-plan living area at the rear, seamlessly integrating the living room, dining space, and stylish kitchen with high-quality appliances and ample storage. Sliding doors lead to a private, landscaped patio, enhancing the indoor-outdoor living experience. 
Upstairs, the master suite offers a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, while two additional bedrooms with built-in wardrobes share a contemporary family bathroom. A versatile children's living area provides extra space for various activities. The Maple's design maximises space and comfort, making it ideal for modern family living.

5. Willow

This design is an expansive and sophisticated duplex, expertly created to optimise a 20m frontage in compliance with NSW CDC standards. This contemporary home blends luxury with practicality, featuring a ground-floor bedroom with a walk-in robe and two-way bathroom, ideal for guests or a home office. 
At the heart of the home is an open-plan living area that seamlessly integrates the living room, dining space, and a chef's kitchen with a large walk-in pantry and high-end appliances. Sliding doors lead to a spacious patio, perfect for outdoor entertaining. The upper floor offers a luxurious master suite with a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, a second bedroom with a walk-in robe, a third generously sized bedroom, and a versatile additional living area. The Willow's design maximizes space and comfort, offering an elegant and functional living environment.
Want more duplex designs? We have dozens to choose from, or can customise a design to meet your needs. Visit our duplex page or contact us today

 FLEXIBLE & FUNCTIONAL DESIGNS FOR EVERY FAMILY 

Our duplex designs for Sydney accommodate different family sizes, with options ranging from one to five bedrooms. Many designs include shared common areas that promote family bonding while maintaining distinct private quarters. These versatile spaces can be adapted to evolving needs, such as home offices or play areas for children.
Single-storey duplex homes are particularly appealing for families with young children or elderly members, as they eliminate the need for stairs and reduce the risk of falls. They also provide greater accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, making them a practical and versatile housing option.

 SINGLE STOREY VS. DOUBLE STOREY DUPLPEX HOMES

Choosing between single-storey and double-storey duplex homes depends on your budget and space requirements. Building two homes together can reduce construction costs compared to separate dwellings, making duplex designs in Sydney a cost-effective option.
Double-storey duplexes offer more design flexibility, allowing for spacious layouts, better natural light, and elevated views. They provide increased privacy between living areas and bedrooms, making them ideal for growing families.
Single-storey duplexes are often more accessible, making them a great choice for families with young children or elderly members. They also incorporate open-plan layouts seamlessly, creating a sense of spaciousness and easy mobility.
Both options have unique advantages, so consider your family’s needs and lifestyle when deciding which design suits you best.
Call Dixon Homes Sydney today on 1800 387 539 to discuss your options and request a free VIP Site Visit. 

 MAXIMISE YOUR PROPERTY'S VALUE WITH A DUPLEX IN SYDNEY

Duplexes and dual occupancy homes are a perfect solution if you want to maximise your property’s potential and create multiple accommodation solutions on one block. Building two separate homes on the same lot will significantly boost investment value and create additional income streams.
The benefits go beyond financial gains. Duplexes and dual occupancy homes offer better rental yields compared to traditional single-family homes, making them an attractive investment option. 
When you build a duplex, you have the option to:
  • Build dual-key properties on one title, allowing for two rental incomes while sharing one set of council rates, which can lower overall expenses. Extended families benefit from this setup, enjoying both proximity and privacy.
  • Build two separate homes on separate titles, which makes selling to separate buyers easier and ensures each home is a separate asset. 
Recently, reduced minimum land size requirements and development approvals for duplex developments in NSW have expanded opportunities for building dual occupancy homes and duplexes on blocks that previously had one dwelling. 
This means you may have the potential to build a duplex without releasing it. And you don’t have to stop at one… a single duplex development project can lead to more, with expanded financial outcomes. 
Want to know if you qualify for fast duplex approval? Call Dixon Homes Sydney on 1800 387 539 or contact here.

 DUPLEX VS DUAL OCCUPANCY HOME

A duplex is two homes that share a common wall. A dual occupancy home is generally a larger home with separate entrances and private living quarters. 
Meanwhile, a granny flat is a separate unit that sits on the property near the main home. 

 THE BENEFITS OF BULDING A DUPLEX IN SYDNEY

Building a duplex house design offers numerous benefits, making it an attractive option for many landowners. At its core, a duplex home consists of two separate living units on a single block of land, providing flexibility and investment potential. Whether you choose to live in one unit and rent out the other or rent both units, duplex designs can generate dual-income streams.
For families, duplex living offers a unique blend of togetherness and independence. Older children seeking independence can have their own space while still being close to the family. Duplex designs also make smart use of available space, ensuring that families have the space they need. 
Privacy is another significant advantage. Duplex designs allow families to live close together while maintaining separate titles and living quarters, which is ideal for multi-generational households. This setup fosters strong family bonds while providing the necessary privacy for each unit.
In the past, living in a duplex meant feeling like you were sharing a home with your neighbours. Clever duplex design means this is no longer the case. You’ll feel a total sense of privacy and barely know your neighbours are there. 
With a property shortage underway in Sydney and buyers paying a premium for new, good quality homes, building a duplex is a smart strategy to capitalise on property value. 

 WHY CHOOSE DIXON HOMES SYDNEY AS YOUR DUPLEX BUILDER?

Selecting the right duplex specialist is crucial for a smooth and successful building process. At Dixon Homes Sydney, we offer:
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Decades of experience: Our history dates to 1959. We have an extensive portfolio of stunning duplex designs Sydney, ensuring quality craftsmanship and practical layouts. 
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Local expertise: Our knowledge of Sydney’s building regulations and zoning requirements streamlines the approval process.
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Transparent contracts: We prioritise clear, detailed contracts to avoid unexpected costs and ensure timely project completion. At Dixon Homes Sydney, Fixed Price Means Fixed Price! 
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Tailored solutions: Whether for personal living or investment, our team will work closely with you to create a duplex design that meets your specific needs.
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More for less: We don’t waste money on expensive showhomes and we pass the savings on to you. 
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Friendly team: Get to know Mark, Paul, Ed and our suppliers. We want you to have a positive experience as well as an outcome that delivers a more valuable property.

CONTACT DIXON HOMES SYDNEY

Ready to explore the best duplex designs Sydney has to offer? Dixon Homes Sydney is here to help you every step of the way.
Call us at 1800 387 539 or visit our website at www.dixonhomessydney.com.au to browse our extensive range of duplex plans. 

 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the benefits of duplexes and dual occupancy homes?
Duplexes and dual occupancy homes maximise land use, provide rental income opportunities, and offer flexible living arrangements for extended families.
How do I choose the right duplex builder?
Look for a builder with relevant experience, a strong portfolio, year of local industry experience and fixed price contracts. Dixon Homes Sydney ensures transparency and high-quality results.
Can duplex homes accommodate multi-generational families?
Yes! Duplex homes provide separate living areas while maintaining shared spaces for family connection.
How can I increase my property value with a duplex?
Building a duplex can double your rental income potential and enhance property value through smart design and efficient land use.
Is my property suitable for a duplex?
New zoning regulations in Sydney mean you may be able to build a duplex and capitalise on the value of your land. You may also qualify for fast-tracked approval, which will save you time and money. Find out more in our duplex approval article here, then reach out for a FREE VIP Site Visit.  
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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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