1 story home floor plans: layouts, ideas and design inspiration

Please Note: All floor plans, layouts, dimensions, and specifications are indicative only and subject to change without notice. Please refer to our full disclaimer at the end of this page before proceeding.*

Single story house floor plans are a popular choice among Australian homeowners for many reasons. One being practicality, as all rooms are situated on one floor, which removes the hassle of climbing stairs upstairs or cleaning multiple levels. Secondly, it’s highly versatile when it comes to floor plans and layouts. From spacious open plans to space-saving layouts, you can choose from a plethora of styles that fit both larger and more compact-sized homes. If you’re looking for design inspiration and ideas, keep reading as we share a few popular 1 story house floor plans along with handy tips on how to pick the right one based on your lifestyle and needs.

What is a 1 story home floor plan?

Also known as a single-level home, a 1 story home floor plan refers to a residential layout where all living spaces and bedrooms are arranged together on a single level on the ground floor of a land lot. There are no stairs in single story homes, which often makes it more functional as it allows for a more open and connected layout that facilitates easier movement, flow, and accessibility. Compared to double story and multi-level homes, construction is also much simpler as the different spaces are all laid out horizontally instead of being separated vertically.

Popular 1 story house floor plan layouts

From open-concept designs to compact, efficient layouts, there’s a wide range of single story house floor plans to suit different needs and block sizes.

1. Open-plan living layouts

One great way to open up the home and make it appear larger than it really is to opt for an open-plan layout. This is where all rooms—from the kitchen and dining to living room—are combined into one seamless space. As a result, your home would feel much more spacious and expansive, yet more connected as conversations can flow freely. With less walls separating the different zones and rooms, it also allows plenty of light in. This type of floor plan for 1 story house is ideal for entertaining and family interaction, so if you love hosting, this is one good option to consider!

2. Split bedroom designs

Hoping to have more privacy in your next home? Split bedroom layouts may be worth considering as the master suite is usually positioned far away or on opposite ends from other bedrooms that are usually allocated for children or guests. Communal spaces like the kitchen, dining, and living room separate the two ends, and this offers both sides added privacy as well as noise reduction. Generally, it’s a great layout for large families, multigenerational homes, or households that have frequent overnight guests.

3. Compact layouts for smaller lots

If you’ve got a smaller or narrower lot of land, every square metre matters. That’s why it’s wise to go for compact, space-saving layouts that are designed to maximise functionality. In fact, this is one common consideration in many Australian suburbs as they focus on efficient room placement, minimal wasted space, and clever storage solutions without compromising comfort.

4. Large family home layouts

For large or growing families, a floor plan designed for both connection and privacy is essential. Many single-story home layouts are specifically designed with this in mind, offering multiple distinct living zones (such as a separate media room or children's retreat), larger open-plan kitchens, and flexible secondary bedrooms that can easily transition into a home office, study, or gym. . This style of layout is perfect for growing families seeking flexibility, as well as those who need extra space to relax, work, and entertain under one roof.

5. L-shaped and U-shaped designs

Some homeowners like having a bit of greenery as an extension of their home. If this sounds like you, L-shaped and U-shaped homes could be a good choice. They wrap around outdoor areas such as courtyards or gardens, which help enhance privacy and indoor-outdoor flow. What’s more, these layouts make the most of natural light and are great for creating sheltered outdoor living spaces.

Benefits of 1 story house floor plans

From easier maintenance to cost savings, here are the top benefits of living in 1 story house floor plans in Australia:

1. Accessibility and convenience

With everything on one level, single story house floor plans can eliminate the need for stairs. In other words, daily living can be easier, and more functional, for families with young children, older parents, or those with mobility considerations. It also goes without saying that it simplifies (and speeds up) the way you move between spaces throughout the day, since there’s no need to go up and down the stairs.

2. Easier maintenance

Cleaning is about to get a whole lot easier. From chores like laundry, vacuuming, and mopping, to outdoor maintenance like cleaning windows, gardening, and repair works, living in a single story home means you don’t have to navigate multiple levels to do all that. In the long run, it can save you time and in some cases even ongoing maintenance costs.

3. Better indoor-outdoor flow

Forget awkward configurations that try to blend the outdoors and indoors. Single story homes often connect the two more seamlessly. Think living areas that naturally lead to patios, gardens, and alfresco spaces, which in turn, may welcome better light and ventilation. If you’re one who enjoys nature and the great outdoors, you’ll appreciate this little advantage when it comes to single story house floor plans.

4. Cost considerations

While land size plays a role, building a single-story house may be more cost-effective due to simpler structural requirements. As mentioned above, there’s no need for staircases or reinforced upper levels, which can help manage construction budgets. Because there is no second story to trap rising heat, well-designed single-story homes can also be more efficient to heat and cool, allowing for more consistent temperatures and improved energy efficiency throughout the home.

1 story house floor plans for different buyer types

Different lifestyles call for different layouts, and choosing the right design depends on your current and future needs.

1. First home buyers

Never owned a home but planning on purchasing your first one? According to current market trends, many buyers are now turning their attention to single story house floor plans, especially those with simpler, more compact layouts. Besides being more affordable (depending on block size), these layouts are often highly functional and tend to prioritise essential living spaces while leaving room for future upgrades or extensions.

2. Growing families

Whether you’re planning to have two or five kids, or see yourself in a multigenerational home in the near future, families often need flexibility. Which is why big house 1 story floor plans with multiple living areas and well-separated bedrooms can often be a great fit. These larger layouts allow space for children to grow while maintaining shared family zones for connection.

3. Downsizers and retirees

For downsizers and retirees, a single story layout can offer comfort, accessibility, and reduced upkeep. One level does not equate to having to compromise. In fact, a thoughtfully designed floor plan for 1 story house can provide all the essentials in a more manageable footprint without sacrificing quality of life.

4. Investors

Single story house floor plans tend to be more practical (and rent-friendly) than multi-level homes. They usually have efficient use of space, good storage, and low maintenance features that appeal to a wider demographic of tenants such as single professionals, couples, and small families. Hence, investors looking to attract long-term renters often explore 1 story house floor plans for these reasons.

How to choose the right 1 story floor plan

Still not sure which layout to pick? Here are key questions to ask yourself before choosing from different single story house floor plans to suit your lifestyle:

1. What does a day in my life look like? Think about how you live daily. Do you often cook or spend time outdoors? Do you live alone or have kids? Do you work from home and need a WFH setup? Your routine will influence how spaces should connect and function.
2. How do I currently use rooms in my home? Identify high-traffic areas and where people naturally gather. This helps you prioritise layout flow and ensure your new home supports similar or improved usage.
3. What rooms are my non-negotiables? Decide which spaces are essential, such as a large kitchen, home office, or guest bedroom. These priorities will shape your ideal floor plan for 1 story house.
4. Will my needs change in the future? Consider long-term factors like growing families, ageing parents, or mobility needs. Choosing a flexible layout early during the stages of home construction can help you avoid costly changes later on.
5. What’s my budget? Your budget will influence land size, layout complexity, and finishes. It’s important to balance your ideal design with realistic financial planning.

Design considerations for single story homes

When planning your layout, several key design factors can influence how functional and comfortable your home will be. This includes:

The size of your lot

The dimensions and shape of your land will determine what type of layout is feasible. Wider lots may suit sprawling big house floor plans 1 story, while narrower blocks require more compact, efficient designs.

Outdoor space

Outdoor areas are an important part of Australian living, so consider how your layout connects to the front porch, backyard, gardens, and patios. A well-integrated design enhances both lifestyle and property value.

Functionality and space optimisation

A good layout should minimise wasted space and maximise usability. Smart zoning, built-in storage, and multi-purpose areas can make even smaller homes feel spacious and practical.

Natural light

Maximising natural light improves both comfort and energy efficiency. Orientation, window placement, and open-plan designs can all play a role in creating a bright, inviting home.

Accessibility

Single story homes are inherently more accessible, but thoughtful design can further enhance this. Wider hallways, step-free entries, and practical layouts can help ensure the home remains suitable for all life stages.

Cost factors for building a 1 story home

While a single-storey home may generally be more cost-effective to build on a per-square-metre construction basis than a double-storey home, there are several unique cost factors to consider when planning your build:

• Lot size and location: Single-storey homes require a larger land footprint than two-story homes of the same internal size. Therefore, choosing a large single-story design may necessitate purchasing a larger, and potentially more expensive, lot.
• Site conditions: Sloping, uneven, or difficult-to-access sites can raise construction costs due to additional groundwork and preparation.
• Materials: The quality and type of materials chosen, from structural elements to finishes, can significantly impact the total build cost.
• Labour: Labour costs vary depending on build time, project scale, and the level of expertise required for construction.
• Design complexity: More intricate layouts, custom features, or larger floor plans can increase costs due to added planning and construction requirements.

1 story vs 2 story home floor plans

Here’s how 1 story and 2 story homes compare in terms of cost, space, and lifestyle:

Explore house and land packages with 1 story floor plans

Ready to find the single-story home of your dreams? Explore Frasers Property’s diverse range of land and residential options tailored to suit different lifestyles.

Disclaimer: Plans, dimensions, layouts, and specifications shown on this webpage are for illustrative and marketing purposes only. They are subject to change without notice in accordance with contract terms, construction constraints, and local council requirements. Furniture, landscaping, decorative items, and premium upgrades shown in any images or plans are not included in the standard sale unless specified in the contract. Homebuyers must refer to their contract of sale and seek independent professional advice before proceeding.