Double storey exterior design trends for 2018

New year, new me, new home? Buying a new home is one of the most exciting times in any person’s life and there’s no time like the present. If you’re thinking about upgrading to a double storey home this year, here are some of the top exterior design trends to consider and look out for in 2018.

1. Modern elevation

House facades say a lot about a home. It’s the first thing that offers the wow factor to your visitors or potential buyers, and more importantly, it’s the first thing you see each time you drive up the driveway. So, put your best foot forward with a beautiful modern elevation.

One of the most stylishly modern facades, a contemporary cubist elevation screams street appeal from every angle. Not only is it striking to look at, but it also allows for a cleverly positioned balcony and pairs perfectly with a manicured lawn.

While shapes such as squares and rectangles add a level of intrigue to the facade that make a statement and command attention, they also blend in with the rest of the exterior to allow for a structured design that will always be on trend.

2. Mixed materials

We’re beginning to see a break away from the traditional form of homes and are moving towards a fusion of ideas as homeowners start to rethink their design. Why not take a bold, non-traditional approach to designing your home’s facade, as well as the materials used?

A growing trend is to use traditional materials and contrast them against elements that wouldn’t normally be found on the exterior of a family home. Mixing old and new, industrial and traditional, dark and light, this look is all about clean, simple lines and a clever use of materials to create the modern home of your dreams.

Don’t be afraid to be bold and experiment with your double storey design by pairing a stone, steel or cement-based cladding with a plywood or white and light-grey paints. Mixing these materials creates a unique look that’s ahead of the curve and truly sets your home apart. It also gives an industrial feel that can be softened by warm, neutral colours that highlight the home’s exterior lines.

3. The classic look

While many homeowners are leaning towards a more modern design, sometimes there’s nothing wrong with sticking to a traditional look. If you’re after a home with character and history, perhaps a timeless design is the right fit for you.

Simple but well-defined features of the craftsman aesthetic have become quite appealing in today’s buyer’s market. Exposed beams, large windows and columns set on pedestals are all perfect exterior features for classic double storey homes buyers seem to gravitate towards.

More specifically, we’re seeing Australian home designers drawing inspiration from Hamptons-style homes. While we may be a long way from New York’s playground for the rich and famous, that hasn’t stopped us Aussies from creating our own take on this stylish coastal bliss look.

Characterised by its charming features – such as stately columns, pediments and ox-eye windows with external walls clad with shingles or weatherboard – this highly sought-after style is becoming increasingly popular in Australia.

The Aussie interpretation of Hamptons-style is a little bit more laidback, combining elements of coastal aesthetic with the more polished Hamptons vibe. This works beautifully as it allows for a classic home with timeless elegance but also adds the relaxed beachy flavour synonymous with our culture.

For more new home inspo and advice take a look at the pros and cons of single vs double storey homes and how to cut costs when building a new home.