The customer brief
The brief centred on addressing the slope of the block, with a clear requirement for the duplex to work with the site rather than against it. It was important that the homes remained practical and easy to live in, without introducing unnecessary construction complexity or cost.
Key priorities included:
- Effective use of a sloping block
- Practical, family-friendly layouts
- Efficient garage integration
- Strong indoor–outdoor connection
- Cost-effective design approach
- Maximising site yield
ZAC design response
- Utilised split-level planning to work with natural site fall
- Positioned garages to optimise access and grading
- Maintained functional mirrored layout where appropriate
- Designed clear zoning for living and sleeping areas
- Integrated alfresco connections for liveability
- Balanced site response with construction efficiency
The design outcome
This project demonstrates a pragmatic and site-responsive approach to duplex design.
Rather than applying a standard layout to a challenging block, the design works with the natural slope, using level changes to improve both functionality and build efficiency. This reduces the need for excessive excavation while maintaining comfortable proportions and logical flow.
Internally, the homes remain highly liveable, with open-plan living areas, clear zoning and strong connections to outdoor spaces. Despite the complexity of the site, the planning ensures the homes feel intuitive and easy to live in.
The result is a duplex that successfully unlocks development potential on a difficult site, balancing practicality, buildability and long-term value.
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