Why Choose a 2 storey house plan?
There are many reasons why choosing a 2 storey house plan over a single level can make both practical and economic sense. Landmark Homes has multiple ‘ready to build’ 2 storey house plans where the upstairs areas are tucked into the roofline giving the homes the distinctive look that Landmark is so well known for. There are also design options that almost look like a single storey house but in fact have a second floor. As with all Landmark homes, any Ready to Build standard plan can be customised, or a custom design can be created from scratch using our unique Design & Build service.Our designs achieve a special style of ‘tucking the upstairs in’, whereby rather than having a full two-storey rise on the outside walls, resulting in a tall house look, the upstairs area is positioned inside the roofline. The intent is to give the home a substantial ‘roofy’ look and superb aesthetic, while also providing a private getaway space.Debbie Clarke, Landmark Homes Co-Founder
What are the benefits of a two storey home?
You can maximise your indoor and outdoor living spaces with a 2 storey house plan Choosing a 2 storey Landmark house plan allows you to maximise your indoor living space without taking up valuable land, especially if your section or building site is small. By building up, you can still enjoy the spaciousness of a large home without it encroaching on your valuable outdoor areas like courtyards, patios or garden. You can create separate family areas with upstairs and downstairs living We all know that teenagers need their own space as much as parents do. That’s where a 2 storey Landmark house plan can make a huge difference in creating separate family areas through split level living. For example, the teenager’s retreat can be upstairs away from the open plan living/dining/kitchen spaces on the ground level, or vice versa. You can capture the views from the second storey The benefit of having a range of 2 storey house plan options available is that you can choose a Landmark house design that’s going to suit the most important features of your section, like the views. If your views need to be captured from a second level, then having your living and entertaining areas upstairs is key. You can also choose to locate your master suite on the same level so you can enjoy the views from the time you wake up to when you go to bed. You can gain privacy from the neighbours Building your new home in a subdivision can mean that maintaining privacy from the neighbours and foot traffic on shared pathways can be challenging. You might want to consider choosing a 2 storey Landmark house plan with the bedroom areas on the second floor to provide increased privacy. This layout also has the advantage that visitors’ only see your tidy living areas and not the kid’s messy bedrooms! You can increase the street appeal of your home with a 2 storey house plan design It’s well known that street appeal is an important factor in increasing the value of your home. The beauty of a 2 storey house plan is that it has more design features that are viewable from the road than a single storey. For example, you don’t just see the garage door, front door or a single window but instead you get to appreciate the architecture of the whole house from eye level.Now you know the benefits, here’s some inspiration from some of Landmark Homes most popular 2 storey Ready to Build house plans…








If you’re passionate about entertaining, want to house a big family, and love a modern aesthetic, then you will love the Kano two storey plan – which originated as a stunning showhome in Hobsonville, Auckland.
This contemporary design features a spectacular open-plan kitchen and living area, which opens to alfresco entertaining on two sides. A separate media room and spacious master bedroom suite complete the picture downstairs, with a luxe ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. The upper level is all for family accommodation – with a further three double bedrooms, study nook, and bathroom.
View the floor plan here.

The Omokoroa design is inspired by the coastal feel of a Hamptons home, and based on Tauranga’s stunning current show home. If you love a classic, timeless style you will love this home.
Downstairs offers a long, wide open plan living, dining and kitchen area – with high pitch sloping ceilings and exposed rafters to create a real wow factor. Floor to ceiling sliding doors open onto a covered outdoor area perfect for al fresco entertaining. On the same level there are two bedrooms, a large bathroom and separate powder room (which could be an ideal private area for guests or sleeping area for kids).
The master suite is upstairs on its own, offering privacy from the rest of the house – and featuring a walk-in wardrobe robe and ensuite.
View the floor plan here.
Looking for a custom designed and built two storey home?
Check out this award-winning home built in Taranaki.
