Why Build a Duplex
A duplex is one of Perth’s most popular property development options, allowing you to create two homes from a single property.
Whether your goal is to sell, rent or accommodate family, a duplex can provide excellent flexibility and long-term value.
Better Planning. Better Returns.
The success of a duplex isn’t determined once construction begins—it’s determined by the decisions made before plans are ever drawn.
That’s why every Metrostrata project starts with a detailed site inspection and feasibility assessment – by a team with over 25 years of residential development experience.
Three Duplex Options
The right duplex design depends on your block, local planning requirements and how you intend to use the property.
Side-by-Side Duplex
A side-by-side duplex places two homes next to each other on the same subdivision, each with its own street frontage where possible.
This option is often suited to wider blocks and provides two homes that feel independent, making them attractive to both buyers and tenants. Each residence enjoys its own private outdoor space, separate access and strong street appeal.
Ideal for:
- Wide lots
- Corner lots
- New developments
- Maximising resale value.
Front & Rear Duplex
Design two brand new homes – where one sits directly behind the other – that work with the unique shape and characteristics of your site. The front unit has full street frontage, whilst the rear home sits on the back half of the block.
Every layout is customised to maximise privacy, functionality and value. They generally require a long, shared driveway running down the side of the property so the back residents can access their home
Ideal for
- Long rectangular blocks of land
- Downsizers who want a smaller, more modern home but love where they live
- Multigenerational living where some privacy and independence is desired.
House Behind House Duplex
A house behind house development can allow you to keep your existing home whilst building a second dwelling behind it. The new home can be sold, rented to generate ongoing income, or occupied by family members, while you continue living in your existing home.
Ideal for:
- Keeping your existing home
- Creating rental income
- Housing family
- Staged development.
Who Duplex Developments Suit
A duplex development can suit a wide range of property owners, including:
- Homeowners wanting to build a second home while remaining in their current house.
- Investors looking to increase rental income from a single block.
- Families creating independent homes for parents or adult children.
- Downsizers wanting to stay in their local community while releasing equity.
- Landowners looking to subdivide and sell one of the completed homes.
- Anyone wanting to maximise the potential of a suitably zoned block.
If your block isn’t suitable for subdivision, a dual key home may provide many of the same financial benefits by creating two separate living spaces within a single dwelling.
Planning for Success
The success of a duplex isn’t determined once construction begins—it’s determined by the decisions made before plans are ever drawn.
We carefully assess:
- The orientation of your block to maximise natural light and energy efficiency.
- The best position for each home based on access, privacy and functionality.
- Room layouts that are practical, comfortable and easy to furnish.
- Construction costs, site works and any hidden expenses that could affect your budget.
- Rental yield, resale potential and long-term investment performance.
Sometimes the obvious solution isn’t the best one. We custom design each development to suit the land and achieve the strongest financial outcome.
With Metrostrata you’ll benefit from:
- Over 27 years of residential development experience.
- Custom-designed homes tailored to your site rather than standard plans.
- Comprehensive feasibility studies before design begins.
- Honest advice about costs, site constraints and likely returns.
- Experienced project management from concept through to completion.
- Practical designs that people genuinely want to live in.
- Efficient construction methods that can reduce build time without compromising quality.
Let's Explore What's Possible
Book a development consultation today