Semi-Detached Dwellings Additions

Not quite a dual occupancy and not quite a terrace house. Semi-detached dwellings were once renowned for their compact size and low maintenance, but are now being extensively renovated in order to update their layout and make them large enough for family living.

Our team is committed to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing solutions, ensuring that your home not only meets your current requirements but also evolves with you into the future. Whether you envision additional bedrooms, a dedicated home office, or versatile living spaces, we are here to bring your aspirations to life with thoughtful and innovative design.

Semi-Detached Dwelling Design Guidelines

Whilst semi-detached dwellings are found in different council areas, most councils have some general design guidelines that apply to these types of dwellings:

  • First floor additions should be set back behind the main front roof ridge of the dwelling, to keep existing front facades looking the same.

  • While not all Councils enforce that first floor additions of both sides are identical, they request that the overall forms and colours complement both sides.

  • Like terraces, additions to the ground and first floors are permitted to be built to the common wall

    While not required, some Councils do like it if first floor additions to semi-detached dwellings are lodged at the same time.

  

 

Semi-Detached Dwelling Projects

Paul and Campbell purchased their double storey semi on a busy street in the Eastern Suburbs. The existing dwelling was unliveable.

The couple wanted to reinvent the concept of the semi as a compact home with tight spaces, and instead wanted to achieve a large home with lots of light and open space. The

 

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How We Can Help Transform Your Semi

 

A Versatile Layout

A future-proof floor plan that will adapt to the changing requirements of a family over time.

Parents’ Retreat

A private oasis for parents, allowing them to have their own bathroom and wardrobe space.

Spaces for Kids and Adults

Separation of spaces to allow for children and adults to enjoy their privacy when having friends over.

Connection to Outdoors

Embrace the Australian lifestyle by fostering a strong connection to outdoor spaces.

Parking

Either provided at the front or the back of the dwelling, as a carport or garage.

Storage

A common requirement by clients, who need space to store items for a variety of needs.

 

We’ve helped countless homeowners and investors re-design their semi’s, to make them suitable for their evolving needs, and gain maximum value out of them.

 

Discover your best next steps for designing the house you’ve always wanted.

-Discuss your brief and gain full clarity about design guidelines that apply to your semi.

-Connect with an architect who has experience designing semi-detached dwellings under various councils

-Walk away with a roadmap to re-design your home to reflect your lifestyle

 

FAQ

  • Yes, a setback does not apply when extending a semi-detached house on the common wall.

  • This is a tricky question, as one wall of a semi shares a wall with its immediate neighbour. Whilst Complying Development design regulations do take into account walls that are on the boundary, there are some rules regarding how long this common wall can be. It is best to consult with an architect to discuss whether Complying Development is possible for your semi.