As a custom home builder in Brisbane, we often encounter clients who are looking for split level home designs. Not only do these styles of homes offer a unique architectural difference, but they also prove to be a good choice to complement the varied landscape that Brisbane has to offer.
If you're considering building a new custom home and are looking at multiple floor levels, understanding the ins and outs of split level house designs can help you decide if a split level home is the right choice for you.
Split level homes vs single storey designs
A split level house design is a type of home that features multiple levels that are staggered, rather than just a single floor or two full floors.
The reasons for choosing a split level home design could be varied. You might simply want more space within the home, you may prefer a split level design for aesthetic reasons or your block lends itself to a split level home. Any and all of these reasons makes a split level home a viable option and one worth looking into.
The benefits of a split level home design
There are many benefits to a split level home design, including but not limited to:
The potential for a larger and more user-friendly home - One of the obvious advantages to having a split level home design over a single storey design is the extra space. You can potentially double the floor area in the home while maintaining the same footprint on the land.
A unique aesthetically pleasing home - Without a doubt, a split level home design can offer up a unique and appealing aesthetic that would be hard to achieve in a single storey home. The varied heights and visual appeal can add value to your home should you choose to resell down the track.
The ability to create zones within the home - Split level designs also allow for a greater division of space, which is handy if you want to create zones within the home to allow for lifestyle flexibility. For example, if you have older children who are still at home, you might want to have rooms on one level for them while you create a more private master suite on another level. If you are entertaining guests at night and have young children, having split zones means no one is disturbed. Or perhaps you have multiple generations living under one roof and you are looking for space for everyone to spread out. A split level design provides much more flexibility. While single storey home designs do have their advantages, they do limit the space you have within the external walls, meaning that much more attention needs to be paid to the layout to achieve an optimal design.
Adaptable to sloping and narrow lots - Split level home designs can be more adaptable to your block of land. With Brisbane’s landscaping being so diverse with many sloping and narrow blocks, split level homes could be the ideal choice. Designing your home to follow the natural contours of the land can save a lot of cut and fill and significant excavations. Homes that work with the contour of the land also make planning outdoor living a lot easier. This is something to consider if your family spends a lot of time outdoors enjoying the beautiful Brisbane climate.
The opportunity to maximise views - Depending on the location, split level homes can be strategically designed to take advantage of the surrounding views. In Brisbane, this means optimising the home’s layout to enjoy the city skyline, the Brisbane River, or lush green surroundings. If designed well, elevated living areas and large windows can also flood the home with sunlight, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
What to consider when planning a split level home
Designing a split level home does require careful planning to ensure functionality, aesthetics, and comfort are all met. The following should be considered during the planning and designing stage:
The location, style and design of the stairs - Do you want the stairs to be a feature of the home or do you want them to be more discrete and tucked away? Stairs in a split level home don’t have to be simply functional, they can be the central design element of the home. With a wide range of styles and material choices, the stair style and placement can dictate your home's overall aesthetic.For example, you can select a modern open stair riser and glass balustrading for a sleek design or close in the risers and add under-stair storage for more functionality and a classic feel to the home.
The floor plan and home’s layout - Room placement and floor plan configuration can be more comprehensive in a split level design, but when done well, it can elevate the functionality of the home. The layout of a split level home should reflect the lifestyle and needs of the family living in the home. And while it is typically that the main living areas such as the kitchen, dining, and living room are located on one level, and the bedrooms and bathrooms are on another, there are really no rules and you have the opportunity to configure the layout however you like.
Transitions between levels - Not only is stair placement critical in a split level design but understanding and optimising the flow between levels is just as important. Consider how each level will be used daily and work towards having a smooth transition between each level.
Heating and cooling - Maintaining consistent temperatures across different levels can be challenging in a split level home. Heat naturally rises, making upper levels warmer and lower levels cooler. However, if the home is well-insulated and a zoned heating and cooling system is installed, this can help to regulate temperatures and make the home energy efficient.
Building Costs - While you do need to factor in extra costs associated with building a split level home, these costs can be balanced out with the end value of the home once completed. A larger floor area and an aesthetically pleasing design lends itself to more built in value to the home.
Is a split level home design a good fit for you?
A split level home is not going to be for everyone. For some, the idea of stairs will immediately disqualify a split level design. For others, however, a split level home may be the ideal solution and exactly what is needed. Some key things to consider to determine if a split level home is right for you is the following:
Family Dynamics - Who will be living in and using the home? What will the general routines be? Will extra privacy be needed? And how will the home adapt for future family changes?
Lifestyle and Activities - How will your home be used daily? Do you entertain often? If you enjoy outdoor living, multiple levels can provide various spaces to enjoy Brisbane’s beautiful weather.
Property and Location - Do you have a block in mind for your home? As mentioned previously split level designs are ideal for sloping blocks. Consider how the design will fit with the surrounding environment and local building regulations.
Budget and Long-term Plans - What is the budget for your home? While split level homes can be more costly to build, they often offer a unique and valuable living experience. Consider your budget and long-term plans to determine if the investment aligns with your goals.
As always, for any custom built home, whether it’s a split level home or not, it is important to work closely with your builder and building designer. Your builder and building designer can provide you with important information about the best way to position your home on the land you own, what floor plans and layouts work best for split level designs and what will be the optimal layout for you and your family.
Let us help you navigate the process of a split level home design
If you’re considering split level home designs, we’d love to help you navigate the process and bring your home vision to life. Let’s create a home that’s not just a place to live, but a space you’ll love for years to come. Get in touch with Line and Form Custom Homes and one of the friendly team can work with you to determine if a split level home design is the right fit for you.
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