Dual Occupancy Design Services Melbourne

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Complete Dual Occupancy Design Services From Site Feasibility To Planning Drawings & Working Documentation

Vaastu Atelier provides dual occupancy design services across Melbourne, helping landowners, families, investors and developers transform residential land into two well-planned, council-responsive and highly liveable homes.

A successful dual occupancy project is not only about placing two dwellings on one block. It must balance site potential, Clause 55 requirements, neighbourhood character, vehicle access, garage design, private open space, tree canopy, solar access, overlooking, overshadowing, stormwater, waste, landscape, subdivision and long-term property value.

Our dual occupancy design services cover the full project pathway, from early site feasibility and layout testing through to concept design, planning permit drawings, consultant coordination, working drawings and builder pricing documentation.

Whether your site suits a side-by-side dual occupancy, front-and-rear layout, one dwelling behind another, retained existing home with rear dwelling, corner block dual occupancy or luxury two-dwelling development, Vaastu can help assess the opportunity and shape the right design strategy.

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350+ Projects Across Melbourne Since 2009

Proven Experience in Residential Development Design Across Melbourne

Dual Occupancy & Clause 55 Design

Planning-Focused Designs for Efficient Dual Occupancy Developments

Two Homes On One Lot

Smartly Designed Homes That Make the Most of Your Site

Planning-Led Residential Development

Strategic Design Shaped by Site, Planning and Development Requirements

Dual Occupancy

Our Dual Occupancy Design Services

Vaastu Atelier provides a complete design and documentation service for dual occupancy developments and two-dwelling residential projects.

Our role is to help clients understand what the land can realistically support, shape a strong design strategy and prepare the drawings needed for planning, consultants, builder pricing and construction documentation.

Our dual occupancy design services include:

Site feasibility review
Dual occupancy yield testing
Development strategy
Side-by-side dual occupancy design
Front-and-rear dual occupancy design
One behind another dual occupancy design
Retain existing house and build behind strategy
Corner block dual occupancy design
Luxury dual occupancy design
Contemporary dual occupancy design
French Provincial dual occupancy design
Knockdown rebuild dual occupancy design
Clause 55 design response
Dual occupancy concept design
Dual occupancy floor plan design
Dual occupancy façade design
Access, driveway and garage planning
Private open space planning
Tree canopy and landscape integration
Overlooking and overshadowing response
Stormwater and waste planning coordination
Town planning drawings
Consultant coordination
Council RFI drawing updates
Subdivision-aware design
Working drawings
Builder pricing documentation
Design refinement during the project

Dual Occupancy Site Feasibility Review

Before designing two dwellings, the site should be reviewed carefully.

A block may look suitable for dual occupancy because of its land size, but the realistic outcome depends on frontage, depth, zoning, overlays, easements, trees, slope, drainage, vehicle access, neighbouring windows, private open space, tree canopy, stormwater, waste and market expectations.

A site feasibility review helps identify whether the land is best suited to side-by-side dual occupancy, front-and-rear dual occupancy, retain-and-build-behind, townhouses, a single luxury home or another residential strategy.

We Review

Property address
Land size
Street frontage
Site depth
Corner block potential
Orientation
Slope
Existing dwelling location
Neighbouring dwellings
Neighbouring windows
Street character
Zoning
Overlays
Easements
Trees and vegetation
Driveway access
Garage potential
Private open space potential
Tree canopy opportunity
Stormwater and drainage
Waste collection strategy
Subdivision potential
Planning permit pathway
Construction access
Market appeal
Long-term property value

Best For

Clients buying land
Owners with larger blocks
Clients comparing dual occupancy and townhouses
Developers testing site potential
Families considering redevelopment
Clients with corner blocks
Clients wanting to retain the existing house
Clients unsure whether two homes are realistic
Clients wanting early design advice before committing

Service Outcome

A clear early direction showing whether the site has realistic dual occupancy potential and what design pathway should be explored next.

Dual Occupancy Development Strategy

A dual occupancy project should begin with a strategy, not just a drawing.

The strategy should identify the best layout type, planning risk, market direction, access strategy, private open space approach, landscape response and likely documentation pathway.

Development Strategies May Include

Side-by-side dual occupancy
Front-and-rear dual occupancy
One behind another dual occupancy
Retain existing house and build behind
Corner block dual occupancy
Luxury dual occupancy
Contemporary dual occupancy
French Provincial dual occupancy
Knockdown rebuild dual occupancy
Subdivision-aware dual occupancy
Premium resale dual occupancy
Build one and sell one strategy
Build one and rent one strategy
Family land development strategy
Parents and children living arrangement
Downsize and retain land value strategy

We Help Clarify

Whether two dwellings are realistic
Whether side-by-side or front-and-rear layout is better
Whether the existing house should be retained
Whether a corner block can improve dwelling identity
Whether townhouses may be better than dual occupancy
Where garages and access should go
How private open space can be achieved
Where tree canopy and landscape should be allowed
Whether planning risk is manageable
What consultants may be required
What documentation pathway is required

Service Outcome

A project direction that gives the dual occupancy design process a clear foundation before concept design begins.

Dual Occupancy Yield & Layout Testing

Dual occupancy yield testing helps determine how two dwellings can realistically work on the site without compromising planning compliance, liveability or value.

The goal is not only to fit two homes. The goal is to create two good homes that are private, functional, marketable and capable of being approved and built.

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Layout Testing May Explore

Side-by-side dwellings
Front-and-rear dwellings
One dwelling behind another
Retaining the front house
Replacing the existing house with two new homes
Corner block dual frontage layout
Attached dwellings
Semi-detached dwellings
Detached dwellings
Single-storey and double-storey options
Garage locations
Private open space options
Different dwelling sizes
Different resale or rental strategies

We Consider

Land size
Frontage width
Driveway length
Garage arrangement
Vehicle turning
Private open space
Solar access
Tree canopy
Waste storage
Overlooking
Overshadowing
Street presentation
Subdivision boundaries
Construction practicality
Market demand
Planning risk

Service Outcome

A realistic dual occupancy direction showing the layout type most suited to the site.

Clause 55 Design Strategy

Dual occupancy developments in Melbourne generally need to respond to Clause 55 because they involve two dwellings on one lot.

A dual occupancy design should be shaped around Clause 55 from the earliest concept stage, not adjusted later after the layout is already fixed.

Vaastu provides Clause 55-focused design services to help align the development with planning expectations.

Clause 55 Design Strategy Includes

Neighbourhood character response
Street setback review
Building height review
Side and rear setback planning
Walls on boundary strategy
Site coverage review
Access and crossover planning
Tree canopy planning
Front fence response
Parking location review
Street integration
Entry design
Private open space planning
Solar access to open space
Functional layout
Room depth
Daylight to new windows
Natural ventilation
Storage
Daylight to existing windows
Existing north-facing window review
Overshadowing review
Overlooking response
Internal views between dwellings
Permeability and stormwater coordination
Solar energy system consideration
Rooftop solar allowance
Waste and recycling strategy
Noise impact consideration

Service Outcome

A dual occupancy design strategy that considers the key planning standards early and reduces the risk of avoidable redesign later.

Side-by-Side Dual Occupancy Design Services

Side-by-side dual occupancy is often the preferred arrangement where the site has enough frontage.

This layout can provide each dwelling with strong street presence, separate identity, independent entry and private rear open space.

Side-by-Side Design Services Include

Frontage suitability review
Dwelling width testing
Garage location planning
Entry separation
Façade balance
Street setback response
Side setback strategy
Private rear yard planning
Living area orientation
Bedroom layout
Upper-level privacy response
Shared wall coordination awareness
Subdivision boundary awareness
Landscape and tree canopy planning
Material and façade direction
Planning drawings
Working drawings after approval

Best For

Wide blocks
Premium residential streets
Family buyer markets
Two similar-sized homes
Subdivision potential
Luxury dual occupancy projects
Contemporary or French Provincial dual occupancy

Service Outcome

Two homes with strong street identity, efficient planning and balanced façade presentation.

Front-and-Rear Dual Occupancy Design Services

Front-and-rear dual occupancy places one dwelling toward the street and the second dwelling behind it.

This layout can suit deeper blocks, especially where frontage is not wide enough for a strong side-by-side outcome.

The main challenge is ensuring the rear dwelling has proper access, light, privacy, outdoor space and identity.

Front-and-Rear Design Services Include

Deep block suitability review
Driveway access planning
Rear dwelling siting
Front dwelling planning
Garage arrangement
Vehicle turning review
Pedestrian access planning
Rear dwelling natural light
Rear private open space
Landscape buffer along driveway
Waste storage strategy
Privacy between dwellings
Overlooking and overshadowing response
Stormwater and permeability planning
Subdivision boundary awareness
Planning drawings
Working drawings after approval

Best For

Deep blocks
Narrower frontage sites
Rear unit development
Investment strategies
Families wanting one front and one rear home
Owners wanting to retain a front home where possible

Service Outcome

A front-and-rear dual occupancy layout where both dwellings feel practical, private and liveable.

Retain Existing House + Build Behind Services

Some dual occupancy projects retain the existing front dwelling and add a second dwelling at the rear.

This can reduce demolition cost and allow staged development, but it only works when the existing home is well positioned and the rear of the site has sufficient development potential.

Retain-And-Build-Behind Services Include

Existing house position review
Existing house condition discussion
Side driveway suitability
Rear building envelope testing
Front dwelling private open space review
Rear dwelling private open space planning
Parking strategy for both dwellings
Service coordination awareness
Construction access review
Existing home upgrade considerations
Landscape separation
Privacy between homes
Subdivision potential review
Planning drawings
Consultant coordination

Best For

Existing homes with good street presentation
Deep blocks
Owners wanting staged development
Owners wanting to keep the front home
Investment or rental strategies
Family accommodation at rear

Service Outcome

A practical strategy for adding a second dwelling while retaining the existing home where the site allows it.

Corner Block Dual Occupancy Design Services

Corner blocks can be excellent for dual occupancy because each dwelling may be able to address a different street.

This can reduce shared driveway issues and create two homes with stronger identity, better access and improved resale appeal.

Corner Block Design Services Include

Primary street frontage review
Secondary street frontage review
Front setback strategy
Side street setback strategy
Two-street façade design
Vehicle crossover strategy
Garage orientation
Fence design direction
Corner visibility review
Private open space orientation
Landscape on both frontages
Waste collection strategy
Street address strategy
Subdivision-aware planning
Neighbourhood character response
Planning drawings
Working drawings after approval

Best For

Corner residential sites
Two independent street frontages
Premium two-home outcomes
Reduced shared driveway arrangements
Better street identity
Improved resale appeal

Service Outcome

A corner block dual occupancy design that uses both frontages intelligently and gives each home a strong address.

Luxury Dual Occupancy Design Services

Dual occupancy does not need to feel like a basic unit development.

Luxury dual occupancy design focuses on creating two premium homes with refined façades, generous layouts, quality kitchens, private outdoor spaces, natural light, privacy and strong buyer appeal.

Luxury Dual Occupancy Services Include

Premium façade design
Large living area planning
Luxury kitchen layout
Butler’s pantry review where suitable
Master suite planning
Guest bedroom planning where suitable
Generous bedrooms
Private courtyard planning
Lift provision review where suitable
Double garage planning where suitable
High-quality material direction
Landscape and lighting direction
Street presence refinement
Buyer appeal review
Builder pricing documentation

Best For

Premium suburbs
Owner-occupier resale markets
Family-sized dwellings
High-value sites
Downsizer buyers
Developer-led luxury projects
Side-by-side projects with strong frontage

Service Outcome

Two homes that feel like quality residences rather than basic unit development.

Contemporary Dual Occupancy Design Services

Contemporary dual occupancy is suited to clients wanting clean architecture, strong street presence, natural light and open-plan living.

A contemporary design can help two homes feel modern, refined and marketable.

Contemporary Dual Occupancy Services Include

Modern façade design
Massing and form development
Large glazing strategy
Open-plan living design
Integrated garage design
Material and colour direction
Private courtyard planning
Landscape-led entry design
Privacy screening direction
Natural light planning
Warm interior direction
Planning drawings
Working drawings after approval

Service Outcome

A contemporary dual occupancy design with modern street appeal, functional layouts and strong market presentation.

French Provincial Dual Occupancy Design Services

French Provincial dual occupancy can suit premium suburbs where buyers value timeless character, classical proportions and elegant street presentation.

This approach requires careful façade composition so two dwellings do not feel crowded or overdecorated.

French Provincial Dual Occupancy Services Include

Classical façade composition
Symmetry and proportion control
Elegant entry planning
Tall window placement
Garage dominance control
Render and stone direction
Roof form direction
Wrought iron detail direction
Formal landscape direction
Interior planning direction
Private open space planning
Planning drawings
Working drawings after approval

Service Outcome

A dual occupancy design with timeless street presence and premium residential character.

Knockdown Rebuild Dual Occupancy Design Services

Many dual occupancy projects begin with demolition of an older home.

A knockdown rebuild dual occupancy allows the entire site to be redesigned from the beginning, which can create a stronger outcome than trying to work around an existing dwelling.

Knockdown Rebuild Dual Occupancy Services Include

Existing house review
Demolition-aware design planning
New two-dwelling layout testing
Side-by-side feasibility
Front-and-rear feasibility
Garage and driveway planning
Private open space planning
Tree and easement review
Planning permit strategy
Concept design
Façade design
Town planning drawings
Consultant coordination
Working drawings after approval

Best For

Older homes on valuable land
Wider blocks
Deep blocks
Corner sites
Family investment projects
Developer-led projects
Owners wanting to live in one and sell or rent the other

Service Outcome

A two-home redevelopment strategy that unlocks land value while improving liveability and long-term potential.

Dual Occupancy Concept Design

Concept design is where the dual occupancy development begins to take shape.

At this stage, we explore the relationship between site planning, dwelling arrangement, driveway access, garages, private open space, entries, building mass, landscape and façade character.

Concept Design May Include

Site layout
Dwelling arrangement
Ground floor plans
Upper floor plans
Garage arrangement
Driveway strategy
Pedestrian entries
Private open space locations
Landscape zones
Tree canopy zones
Initial façade direction
Building massing
Roof form direction
Material direction
Planning considerations
Key design notes

Design Focus

Realistic two-dwelling layout
Planning response
Street presence
Liveability
Natural light
Private open space
Garage control
Vehicle access
Landscape integration
Tree canopy
Subdivision logic
Market appeal
Buildability

Service Outcome

A clear concept design showing how two dwellings can work on the site.

Dual Occupancy Floor Plan Design

Dual occupancy homes must feel like proper homes, not compromised units.

Each dwelling should have a functional layout, good room sizes, natural light, practical storage, outdoor connection, privacy and strong everyday liveability.

Dual Occupancy Floor Plan Services Include

Ground floor planning
Upper floor planning
Living and dining layout
Kitchen layout
Pantry planning
Powder room planning
Laundry planning
Garage access planning
Bedroom layout
Master suite planning
Ensuite and bathroom planning
Study nook or home office planning
Storage planning
Stair location
Private open space connection
Balcony planning where suitable
Natural light planning
Internal privacy planning
Furniture layout awareness

Service Outcome

Dual occupancy floor plans that feel practical, liveable, marketable and aligned with planning requirements.

Dual Occupancy Façade Design

The façade is important for both planning and market appeal.

A strong dual occupancy façade should create street presence, individual dwelling identity and high-quality residential character. It should not allow garages, services or repetitive forms to dominate the streetscape.

Façade Design Services Include

Front elevation design
Side elevation design
Rear elevation design
Street-facing façade composition
Garage integration
Entry identity
Window placement
Balcony design where suitable
Roof form direction
Material composition
External colour palette
Screening direction
Lighting direction
Service screening
Landscape relationship
Corner elevation design
Individual dwelling identity

Contemporary Façade Focus

Clean forms
Large glazing
Material restraint
Entry definition
Garage control
Landscape-led presentation

French Provincial Façade Focus

Symmetry
Classical proportion
Tall windows
Elegant entries
Render and stone direction
Premium street character

Service Outcome

A dual occupancy façade that supports planning, street character, buyer appeal and long-term value.

Access, Driveway, Garage & Parking Design

Vehicle access is one of the most important parts of dual occupancy design.

A poor driveway or garage strategy can weaken street presentation, reduce outdoor space, create planning issues and make one dwelling feel secondary.

Vaastu considers access and garages from the beginning so the design can balance vehicle function with amenity and street appeal.

Access Design Services Include

Crossover location review
Driveway layout
Shared accessway planning
Garage placement
Tandem parking review where suitable
Basement or undercroft parking review
Vehicle turning coordination
Pedestrian safety
Street tree protection
Garage dominance control
On-street parking impact awareness
Waste collection access
Emergency access awareness where required
Subdivision boundary awareness

Service Outcome

A clearer access and garage strategy that supports both planning requirements and better dual occupancy liveability.

Private Open Space & Outdoor Living Design

Private open space is one of the most important liveability elements in dual occupancy design.

Each dwelling should have outdoor space that is usable, connected to living areas and appropriately private.

Outdoor Space Services Include

Secluded private open space planning
Courtyard planning
Rear yard planning
Balcony planning where suitable
Living-to-outdoor connection
North-facing open space review
Solar access review
Privacy screening
Outdoor dining area planning
Landscape buffer planning
Low-maintenance landscape direction
Boundary treatment direction

Service Outcome

Two homes with outdoor areas that feel usable, private and connected to daily living.

Tree Canopy, Landscape & Streetscape Integration

Dual occupancy development should not treat landscape as leftover space.

Tree canopy, deep soil, front setback planting, driveway edge planting and private open space landscaping should be considered at the same time as building footprints and access.

Landscape Services Include

Existing tree review
Tree retention strategy
New canopy tree locations
Deep soil area planning
Front setback landscape direction
Driveway edge planting
Private open space landscape direction
Street tree protection awareness
Landscape buffer between dwellings
Entry planting
Low-maintenance planting direction
Permeable surface planning
Stormwater landscape coordination
Urban cooling response
Streetscape improvement

Service Outcome

A dual occupancy development where buildings, access and landscape are planned together.

Overlooking, Overshadowing & Amenity Response

Neighbour amenity is a major consideration in dual occupancy planning.

A strong design should manage overlooking, overshadowing, internal views, building bulk, daylight and privacy from the beginning.

Amenity Response Services Include

Neighbouring window review
Neighbouring secluded private open space review
Existing north-facing window review
Upper-level window placement
Balcony placement
Privacy screening direction
Obscure glazing strategy
Setback adjustment
Building articulation
Shadow diagram coordination
Internal views between dwellings
Landscape screening
Visual bulk reduction
Council RFI response where required

Service Outcome

A dual occupancy design that better manages privacy, shadow and neighbour amenity issues.

Stormwater, Permeability, Waste & Sustainability Coordination

Dual occupancy developments require early consideration of stormwater, permeability, waste, recycling, solar readiness and sustainable site planning.

These matters can affect the layout, driveway, roof areas, open space, landscape and services.

Coordination Services Include

Permeability planning
Stormwater consultant coordination
Civil engineer coordination
WSUD coordination where required
Bin storage planning
Waste collection strategy
Recycling storage planning
Solar zone planning
Rooftop solar allowance
Rainwater tank location review
Service area screening
Noise consideration
External access lighting direction
Low-maintenance material direction

Service Outcome

A dual occupancy design that considers practical servicing and sustainability matters early rather than leaving them as late-stage problems.

Dual Occupancy Planning Drawing Services

Most dual occupancy developments require a town planning permit.

Vaastu prepares dual occupancy planning drawings to support planning permit applications and consultant coordination.

Town Planning Drawings May Include

Site plan
Existing conditions plan
Demolition plan where required
Development summary
Ground floor plans
Upper floor plans
Roof plan
Elevations
Sections
Street elevation
Shadow diagrams
Overlooking diagrams
Materials schedule
Site coverage information
Permeability information
Tree canopy information
Private open space information
Garage and access information
Waste storage information
Neighbourhood character response
Clause 55 response coordination
Consultant drawing coordination

Service Outcome

A clear dual occupancy planning drawing package prepared to support the planning permit process.

Council RFI & Design Response Services

Dual occupancy planning applications commonly receive Requests for Further Information or design comments from council.

Vaastu can assist with drawing updates and design responses where required.

RFI Response Services May Include

Drawing updates
Layout refinement
Setback updates
Shadow diagram updates
Overlooking response
Landscape coordination updates
Tree canopy response
Garage and access updates
Waste storage updates
Material updates
Neighbourhood character response
Consultant coordination
Planner coordination
Resubmission drawing support

Service Outcome

A revised drawing package that responds to council comments and planning issues.

Working Drawing Services

After planning approval, dual occupancy projects require detailed working drawings for building permit, consultant coordination, builder pricing and construction.

Working Drawings May Include

Site plan
Floor plans
Elevations
Sections
Roof plan

Window schedule
Door schedule
Wet area details
Stair details
Balustrade details
Garage details
External wall details
Internal wall setout
Ceiling height information
Kitchen direction
Bathroom and laundry details
Materials schedule
Construction notes
Consultant coordination updates
Building permit drawings

Service Outcome

A detailed working drawing package that supports building permit, consultant coordination, builder pricing and construction.

Consultant Coordination Services

Dual occupancy developments often require multiple consultants.

Vaastu can assist with consultant coordination as part of the design and documentation process.

Consultants May Include

Land surveyor
Town planner
Arborist
Traffic consultant
Civil engineer
Structural engineer
WSUD consultant
Landscape designer
Energy consultant
Building surveyor
Geotechnical engineer
Subdivision surveyor
Waste consultant where required
Acoustic consultant where required
Builder

Service Outcome

Better coordination between architectural design, planning, engineering, landscape, access, stormwater, energy, subdivision and construction requirements.

Subdivision-Aware Design Services

Many dual occupancy developments are designed with future subdivision in mind.

Subdivision should be considered early because it can influence access, common property, services, title boundaries, private open space, drainage and utility connections.

Subdivision-Aware Services Include

Title boundary awareness
Common property planning
Private open space allocation
Garage and car space allocation
Driveway ownership logic
Separate service planning awareness
Drainage coordination
Mailboxes
Bin storage
Street addressing
Easement review
Owners corporation awareness
Subdivision surveyor coordination

Service Outcome

A dual occupancy design that better supports future subdivision and title planning.

Builder Pricing Documentation

Clear documentation helps builders understand the project and price it more accurately.

Dual occupancy developments can become difficult to price when drawings are unclear, consultant information is not coordinated or design details are unresolved.

Builder Pricing Support May Include

Clear plans
Elevations
Sections
Window and door schedules
Material direction
Wet area details
Stair information
Garage information
External detail direction
Ceiling height information
Consultant coordination updates
Planning approval drawing updates
Working drawing package
Design clarification during pricing

Service Outcome

A clearer drawing package that supports builder pricing and reduces confusion during construction preparation.

Packagess

Dual Occupancy Design Service Packages

5 packages. 5 stages. One timeless vision.

Initial Dual Occupancy Site Feasibility

Best for clients at the beginning of the journey.

Includes

Site review
Planning constraint review
Development potential discussion
Single home vs dual occupancy discussion
Dual occupancy vs townhouse discussion
Initial layout direction
High-level project strategy
Recommended next steps

Best For

Clients buying land
Owners with larger blocks
Developers testing feasibility
Families considering redevelopment
Owners wanting to retain the existing house

Best for clients ready to test the development properly.

Best for clients ready to begin design.

Includes

Site layout testing
Side-by-side option review
Front-and-rear option review
Corner block strategy where relevant
Retain-existing option where relevant
Driveway and garage strategy
Private open space planning
Initial floor plans
Initial façade direction
Design review and refinement

Best For

Side-by-side dual occupancy
Front-and-rear dual occupancy
Corner block projects
Luxury dual occupancy
Knockdown rebuild dual occupancy

Town Planning Documentation

Best for projects proceeding to planning permit.

Includes

Town planning drawings
Clause 55 design response coordination
Materials schedule
Shadow diagrams where required
Overlooking diagrams where required
Consultant coordination
Council RFI support where required

Best For

Dual occupancy planning permits
Sites with overlays
Sites with tree constraints
Projects requiring planning consultant support
Projects requiring council RFI response

Working Drawings

Best for approved projects proceeding toward building permit and construction.

Includes

Detailed drawings
Construction documentation
Window and door schedules
Wet area details
External details
Consultant coordination
Building permit drawing support
Builder pricing support

Best For

Approved dual occupancy projects
Building permit applications
Builder pricing
Construction preparation

Full Dual Occupancy Design & Documentation Service

Best for clients wanting a complete service from early feasibility through to documentation.

Includes

Site review
Development strategy
Layout testing
Concept design
Façade design
Design development
Town planning drawings
Council RFI support where required
Working drawings
Consultant coordination
Builder pricing support

Best For

Developers
Landowners
Complex dual occupancy projects
Corner blocks
Luxury dual occupancy developments
Side-by-side projects
Front-and-rear projects
Knockdown rebuild dual occupancy

Design Process

Our Dual Occupancy Design Process

Initial Consultation

We discuss your property, development goals, preferred outcome, budget expectations, timing and whether you intend to sell, rent, hold or live in one dwelling.

Site Review

We review land size, frontage, depth, orientation, slope, easements, trees, zoning, overlays, street character, access and planning constraints.

Development Strategy

We identify whether the site is better suited to side-by-side dual occupancy, front-and-rear dual occupancy, retain-and-build-behind, townhouses, a single luxury home or another development pathway.

Layout Testing

We test realistic dual occupancy arrangements, including garages, driveway, private open space, landscape, tree canopy and planning risks.

Concept Design

We prepare the initial layout, including dwelling placement, floor plans, access, garages, private open space and façade direction.

Design Development

We refine the plans, elevations, materials, privacy, natural light, landscape and planning response.

Town Planning Drawings

We prepare architectural drawings for planning permit submission where required.

Consultant Coordination

We coordinate relevant consultants as required.

Council RFI Response

Where required, we assist with drawing updates and design responses to council comments.

Working Drawings

After planning approval, we prepare detailed drawings for building permit, consultant coordination, builder pricing and construction.

Services Are

Who Our Dual Occupancy Design Services Are For

Our dual occupancy design services are suitable for:

Property owners with larger blocks
Families wanting to build two homes
Owners wanting to live in one and sell the other
Owners wanting to live in one and rent the other
Families wanting homes for parents or adult children
Developers planning two-home projects
Owners comparing dual occupancy and townhouses
Clients with corner block sites
Clients with older homes on development land
Clients wanting to retain the existing house
Builders needing architectural documentation
Clients planning premium dual occupancy projects
Clients needing Clause 55 planning response
Clients needing planning drawings
Clients needing working drawings
Clients wanting subdivision-aware design
Clients wanting a complete design and documentation pathway

Different

What Makes Our Dual Occupancy Design Service Different?

Feasibility Before Design

We consider what the site can realistically support before committing to a layout.

Planning-Led Design

We consider Clause 55, setbacks, height, access, private open space, tree canopy, stormwater, overlooking, overshadowing and waste early.

Development Understanding

We understand the balance between two-home yield, approval pathway, construction cost and resale value.

Premium Residential Design

Our dual occupancy projects are designed to feel like quality homes, not basic rear-unit developments.

Multiple Layout Strategies

We can test side-by-side, front-and-rear, corner block and retain-existing options where relevant.

Consultant Coordination

We can coordinate with town planners, arborists, traffic consultants, civil engineers, WSUD consultants, landscape designers and other specialists.

Subdivision Awareness

We consider future title boundaries, access, services and common property from the beginning.

Documentation Quality

Strong documentation helps support planning, consultant coordination, builder pricing and construction clarity.

Mistakes

Dual Occupancy Design Mistakes Our Services Help Avoid

Assuming every large block can fit two homes
Designing for maximum building size only
Ignoring Clause 55 early
Ignoring frontage width
Poor driveway planning
Oversized garages dominating the façade
Treating the rear dwelling as secondary
Poor natural light
Insufficient private open space
Weak landscape design
Ignoring tree canopy requirements
Poor stormwater strategy
Overlooking neighbouring properties
Overshadowing adjoining open space
No clear subdivision strategy
Ignoring trees and easements
Starting without a feature survey
Designing before understanding planning controls
Leaving waste collection too late
Not considering builder access
Weak documentation
Choosing the cheapest layout instead of the best outcome
Assuming retain-and-build-behind is always possible
Not checking whether townhouses may be a better outcome

PROJECT PORTFOLIO

Featured Dual Occupancy Portfolio

This services page should include a compact portfolio section showing the range of dual occupancy and related residential development outcomes Vaastu can design.

Bentleigh

Gilmour Road

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Full Design & Documentation
Key Design Feature: Grand symmetrical facade with elegant proportions

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Brighton

St Kilda Street

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Concept, Facade & Documentation
Key Design Feature: Balanced symmetry with timeless street presence

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Ashburton

Chamberlain Street

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Full Design & Documentation
Key Design Feature: Formal entrance and classical landscaping

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Berwick

Hyland Court

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Full Design & Documentation
Key Design Feature: Classic French elegance with grand scale

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Lilydale

Maroondah Highway

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Design Development
Key Design Feature: Refined architecture with soft French tones

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Bentleigh

Jassa Street

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Concept Design & Facade
Key Design Feature: Imposing facade with French Provincial details

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Box Hill

Whitehorse Road

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Facade & Interior Direction
Key Design Feature: Sophisticated facade with refined finishes

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Burwood

Station Street

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Town Planning & Documentation
Key Design Feature: Regal proportions and intricate detailing

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Burwood

Delany

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Full Design & Documentation
Key Design Feature: Classic French rooflines and refined detailing

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Mount Waverley

Fraser Street

Project Type: Luxury Residence
Service Provided: Full Design & Documentation
Key Design Feature: Courtyard-inspired design with timeless appeal

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What dual occupancy design services does Vaastu provide?

Vaastu provides dual occupancy design services including site feasibility, layout testing, concept design, floor plan design, façade design, Clause 55 design response, town planning drawings, consultant coordination, working drawings and subdivision-aware design.

Can Vaastu help determine whether I can build two homes on my land?

Yes. Vaastu can review the site and test realistic layout options based on land size, frontage, depth, zoning, overlays, access, private open space, tree canopy, stormwater and planning requirements.

Can Vaastu design side-by-side dual occupancy?

Yes. Vaastu designs side-by-side dual occupancy projects where the site frontage, access, planning context and market strategy support that outcome.

Can Vaastu design front-and-rear dual occupancy?

Yes. Vaastu designs front-and-rear dual occupancy projects, including rear dwellings accessed by side driveways and one-behind-another layouts.

Can Vaastu help retain my existing house and build behind?

Yes. This may be possible where the existing house is well positioned and the site can provide access, private open space, parking and amenity for both dwellings.

Can Vaastu design corner block dual occupancy?

Yes. Corner blocks can be excellent for dual occupancy because each home may address a different street. Vaastu can test access, setbacks, façades, private open space and subdivision logic.

Can Vaastu design luxury dual occupancy homes?

Yes. Vaastu designs luxury dual occupancy developments with premium façades, functional layouts, natural light, private outdoor spaces, refined interiors and strong buyer appeal.

Can Vaastu design contemporary dual occupancy?

Yes. Vaastu designs contemporary dual occupancy projects with modern façades, open-plan living, large glazing, landscape integration and refined material palettes.

Can Vaastu design French Provincial dual occupancy?

Yes. Vaastu can design French Provincial dual occupancy developments where classical proportions, elegant façades and premium street presentation suit the site and market.

Do dual occupancy developments need a planning permit in Melbourne?

Dual occupancy developments generally require a town planning permit and are commonly assessed under Clause 55 for two or more dwellings on a lot.

What is Clause 55 for dual occupancy design?

Clause 55 includes standards for two or more dwellings on a lot, including neighbourhood character, setbacks, height, site coverage, access, tree canopy, private open space, daylight, ventilation, overlooking, overshadowing, stormwater and waste.

Can Vaastu prepare dual occupancy town planning drawings?

Yes. Vaastu can prepare dual occupancy planning drawings for permit submission and coordinate with relevant consultants.

Can Vaastu respond to council RFI comments?

Yes. Vaastu can assist with drawing updates and design responses where council requests further information or design changes.

Can Vaastu prepare dual occupancy working drawings?

Yes. After planning approval, Vaastu can prepare detailed working drawings for building permit, consultant coordination, builder pricing and construction.

Can Vaastu coordinate consultants?

Yes. Depending on the project, Vaastu can coordinate with surveyors, town planners, arborists, traffic consultants, civil engineers, WSUD consultants, landscape designers, energy consultants, building surveyors and other specialists.

Can dual occupancy be subdivided?

Yes. Many dual occupancy developments are designed with future subdivision in mind, subject to council, servicing, access, drainage and title requirements.

What documents should I send before starting?

Please send the property address, title or Section 32, feature and level survey, existing plans if available, planning history, arborist information if available, preferred development type, budget range and project goals.

What makes a dual occupancy development successful?

A successful dual occupancy development balances realistic site potential, planning requirements, liveability, street presence, natural light, private open space, landscape, access, buildability, documentation and resale value.

Start Your Dual Occupancy Project With A Clear Design Strategy

A successful dual occupancy project starts with realistic feasibility, planning-led design and strong documentation.

Whether your site suits side-by-side homes, a front-and-rear layout, a corner block dual occupancy, a retained existing home with rear dwelling, luxury dual occupancy or a knockdown rebuild dual occupancy, Vaastu Atelier can provide the design services needed to assess the site and shape the right outcome.

Book A Dual Occupancy Design Consultation Request A Site Feasibility Review