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The smart, flexible lifestyle solution more Northern Beaches families are turning to.
We all know how lucky we are to live on The Beaches—but let’s face it, finding a place that fits your lifestyle (and budget) is becoming more of a challenge. With land snapped up fast and prices continuing to climb, local families are looking for smarter, more flexible ways to live. Enter the humble duplex—according to Wattle Court, it’s officially having a moment.
“Duplexes offer the ability to live with extended family or explore a co-living setup while still retaining privacy.” — Horst Lueckl, Wattle Court Sydney North
With more than 30 years in the building game, Horst has seen every shift in the market—but right now, he says duplex living is leading the way. “We get it—land is limited, house prices are up, and people are looking for better ways to live. Duplexes tick a lot of boxes. They let multiple generations live together in comfort or give investors a great way to tap into the rental market.”
Live in one, rent out the other.
Or keep both for extended family. Duplexes offer real flexibility, comfort, and privacy. Better yet, shared infrastructure and the option of strata titling can make long-term maintenance easier and more affordable.
A Smart Move
So, what is a duplex exactly? It’s two homes built side-by-side on the one block, sharing a wall but each with its own entrance, parking, garden, and all the privacy of a stand-alone house.
“This brings a wealth of possibilities,” says Horst. “You can live in one, lease the other, support older parents or adult kids, or even co-live with friends in a way that still gives everyone their own space.”
On The Beaches, where land is scarce and demand is high, it’s no surprise investors are taking notice. “Rental returns are strong, and if it’s strata-titled, you can really streamline your outgoings. Less fuss, more return.”
DUPLEX BASICS
As of May 2025, NSW requires:
- Minimum lot size: 450 m²
- Minimum lot width: 12 metres
- Floor space ratio: 0.65:1
- Max building height: 9.5 metres
Note: Local councils may have additional requirements. Always check before you build.
WHERE CAN YOU BUILD?
Not every block is suitable, but many are—and Wattle Court can help you figure it out. “Duplexes are generally permitted in R2 Low Density Residential zones with council approval,” says Horst. “But requirements vary. We help clients assess their block, then tailor a build to suit.”
And Wattle Court’s duplexes? Anything but cookie-cutter.
“Our Habitat Design Range includes the Bairnsdale and Jindivick—two of our most loved duplex designs. We also do full custom builds. Thoughtfully designed, flexible, and future-ready—they’re made for real people living real lives.”
Top 4 Duplex Design Tips
Want to get it right? Here’s what Wattle Court recommends:
- Customise for your land
A wide block gives you more flexibility and better layouts—ideal for that true side-by-side duplex feel. - Plan your common wall
To maintain privacy, place garages or stairwells along the shared wall. Avoid lining up bedrooms or living spaces. - Maximise natural light
A north-facing backyard is pure gold. It makes both homes brighter, warmer, and more liveable. - Boost value with extras
Think pools, balconies, or second living areas—great for lifestyle appeal and rental/resale potential.
Need expert advice?
Get in touch with Grant or Jane at Wattle Court Sydney North. They offer a free, no-obligation site assessment—they’ll visit your block, talk through your options, and help you understand what’s possible before you commit.
Wattle Court Sydney North
Local builders. Knockdown rebuild specialists. Dream-home enablers.
📍 28–30 Orchard Road, Brookvale 2100
📞 (02) 9939 3339
🌐 wattlecourt.com.au/builder/sydney-north
Let’s build something extraordinary. 🏡
