What is a dual living home—and is it right for you?
Dual living homes have become an increasingly popular housing option in Australia, especially as families look for more flexible and future-proof living arrangements. Whether planning for multi-generational living, supporting older parents, or exploring options to offset your mortgage, a dual living home may offer the functionality and independence you’re after, all within a single building footprint.
In this guide, we’ll explain what a dual living home is, how it compares to other dual living housing options like duplexes and granny flats, and what to consider if you’re thinking about building one.
What is a dual living home design?
A dual living home is a single residential dwelling that contains two fully self-contained living spaces. While it looks like one home from the outside, it’s been designed to accommodate two households under one roof. Each part of the home has:
- Its own entrance
- A kitchen
- Bathroom facilities
- Living and sleeping areas
- Separate car accommodation.
These homes are purpose-built for privacy and independence, offering more separation than a traditional home with a guest room or teenager’s retreat—but without a duplex's legal and structural complexities.
The layout is usually planned so that the two dwellings either sit side by side or one behind the other, depending on the block shape and site conditions.
Who are dual living homes suitable for?
One reason dual living designs are growing in popularity is their flexibility. They’re well suited to a range of living arrangements!
Multi-generational families
Parents, grandparents, and adult children can all live on the same property while maintaining personal space. It’s a practical alternative to nursing homes or separate rentals.
Ageing in place
Older relatives who want to stay close to family while still enjoying their independence often find dual living homes more appealing than retirement villages or aged care facilities. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, most people aged 65 and over who use aged care services receive them in their homes!
Adult children living at home
With rising house prices, some young adults live at home longer than previous generations. For some context, 43% of 20–24 year olds were still living with their parents in 2016, compared to 36% of 20–24 year olds in 1981. A separate living space provides independence without the cost of a standalone rental.
Homeowners looking to earn rental income
Some people use one part of the home as a rental property, either short-term (such as Airbnb) or long-term, while continuing to live in the main residence.
Future planning
Even if the second dwelling isn’t needed right away, having the option available later—for family, a tenant, or a carer—can offer peace of mind and flexibility.
Dual living vs dual occupancy, duplexes, and granny flats
While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they describe different housing types. Understanding the differences can help clarify what best suits your needs and what local planning rules may apply.
Dual living sits between a granny flat and a dual occupancy, offering complete independence for two households, while remaining on a single title and often within a single building envelope.
Dual living
- One home with two self-contained living areas
- Typically one title, no subdivision
- Designed for shared living, not separate resale
- May or may not include separate utility metering.
Dual occupancy
- Two separate dwellings on a single lot
- May be attached or detached
- Often eligible for subdivision (into two titles)
- Requires specific zoning and council approval.
Duplex
- Two mirror-image or side-by-side homes with a shared wall
- Usually built on two titles and sold separately
- Designed as two distinct residences, often for resale or rental
- Subject to planning regulations and strata requirements.
Granny flat
- A smaller, secondary dwelling on the same block as a primary residence
- Typically limited to one or two bedrooms and a smaller floor area
- Cannot be sold separately
- More affordable to build, but more restricted in use.
Things to consider before building
If you’re thinking about building a dual living home, here are a few practical considerations to keep in mind:
- Local council requirements: Zoning rules and planning controls differ between councils. Some areas may restrict dual living or require specific approvals. Always check with your local council or engage a builder who understands the regulations.
Alternatively, choose a builder with experience coordinating with the council, like Montgomery Homes. We’ll take care of council approvals so that you can focus on the more enjoyable parts of building! - Block size and shape: Not all blocks are suitable for dual living. The shape, slope, orientation, and frontage of your land can influence how the design works, particularly when allowing for two entrances or private outdoor areas.
If you choose to work with us, we will complete a free site inspection to uncover the potential and possibilities for your block. - Privacy and sound separation: It’s essential to design for soundproofing, privacy, and circulation. Layout decisions such as bedroom placement, entry access, and garage orientation can make a big difference.
- Utility metering: Depending on your intended use (e.g. rental), you may need to install separate electricity or water meters for each dwelling.
- Insurance and finance: Check with your lender and insurer to ensure your design meets any specific valuation, risk, and occupancy requirements. Rental plans can also impact your tax obligations.
Montgomery Homes has worked with clients across NSW to deliver dual living designs that balance flexibility, comfort, and site-specific constraints. With the right design and planning, we can help bring generations together, reduce costs, and make better use of your land—all while maintaining a sense of space and independence.
Is a dual living home right for you?
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal circumstances and long-term goals. A dual living home might suit you if:
If you're exploring dual living as a possibility, talk to the team at Montgomery Homes! A well-designed dual living home can support your lifestyle now and give you options for the years ahead. Book a free site inspection and kickstart the building process today!
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