New option for those who want a two-storey home, but can't afford one.
If you thought building a two-storey home was out of your reach, think again. Rising costs and increasing building times have led to some big innovations, with builders moving away from predictable cookie-cutter construction methods and finding new, more affordable, ways to raise a roof.
In response to market research and the increasing demand for new homes, Metrostyle is launching Loft Homes to cater to a significant niche in today's housing industry.
"A lot of people want two-storey homes but can't afford to build them anymore," general manager Jim Ilias says.
"Loft homes let clients enjoy the feel of living in a two-storey house by utilising space in the roof that would normally be wasted when building a single level home. This makes them quicker and cheaper to build then two-storey designs.
"For example, by constructing a home that makes the most of its roof sapce you can give yourself 290sqm of living room for about $220,000. But if you built a home with 290sqm over two storeys, you'd pay at least $300,000."
Traditional families living in the suburbs were the driving force behind the new series of Loft Homes designs, which typically fit on blocks from about 400sqm upwards. Apart from the innovative floor plans, the elevations of the homes will make attractive additions to any streetscape.
"Many of the loft designs were created in response to client requests that were posted on our website," Mr Ilias says.
The client feedback has resulted in eight stylish Loft Homes designs for would-be home builders to choose from. Six of them were inspired by existing Metrostyle display homes, which start from $150,000. For an extra $39,500, a 6m x 5m loft can be incorporated into the floor plan. The other two, Sandalwood and Tuart, were drafted from scratch. The Sandalwood has an attractive mezzanine floor, while the Tuart comes with a rear balcony.
In most of the designs the lofts are closed off from the rest of the house to create the illusion that you're living in a two-storey home. This concept lets you adapt the loft space to suit your lifestyle. Installing a home theatre, games room, artist's studio or master suite are some of the ways to personalise the area.
The Sandalwood, with its mezzanine floor, has a more open-plan design that's ideal for parents who like to keep an eye on their kids.
"There's something for everyone and it costs exactly the same amount ($39,500) no matter which loft style you choose for your home," Mr Ilias says.
Choosing a loft option when you build is much cheaper than retro-fitting one and is a great way to add value to your property, should you decide to sell it later.
New option for those who want a two-storey home, but can't afford one.