In the heart of Melbourne’s inner west, Newport offers an exceptional opportunity for smart property investors, downsizers, and future-focused families. With generous block sizes, favourable zoning, and strong demand for new housing, dual occupancy design in Newport is fast becoming a go-to strategy for building long-term wealth.
At Barnes & Matina, we help clients unlock their site’s full potential with thoughtful, council-compliant designs that balance lifestyle, investment return, and construction efficiency.
Why Dual Occupancy is Ideal for Newport
Newport has all the ingredients for successful small-scale development:
- A mix of older homes ripe for redevelopment
- Well-connected transport, schools, parks, and village character
- Planning overlays and zones that support medium-density housing
As more people seek townhouses and low-maintenance homes in well-located suburbs, dual occupancy design offers both flexibility and financial return.
Designing for Yield & Livability
Dual occupancy isn’t just about squeezing two homes onto one site—it’s about designing for value. We help clients determine the best format for their block:
- Side-by-side for wide blocks and strong street presence
- Front-and-rear for deep or narrow lots
We focus on:
- Privacy and orientation for liveability
- Off-street parking and access
- Light-filled interiors that appeal to buyers and tenants
See how we tailor this approach in our Dual Occupancy service.
Balancing Council Requirements & Creativity
Newport falls under Hobsons Bay Council, which includes:
- Neighbourhood character overlays
- Garden area requirements
- Setback and interface controls
Our role is to navigate these rules while still delivering striking, practical designs. With deep local experience, our team ensures your project is both compliant and compelling.
Learn more about our approach to Building Design in Newport.
Case Study: Birmingham Street Project
Our Birmingham Street project shows what’s possible when design, planning, and strategy align:
- Dual occupancy layout with front and rear homes
- Private open space for both dwellings
- A clear path from demolition to approval and builder pricing
This project helped the owner unlock equity and deliver a strong resale outcome—one home was kept as a residence, the other sold to fund the build.
Buildability: Making the Numbers Work
Every successful development starts with the numbers. Our dual occupancy designs are always:
- Builder-friendly: with clear documentation and practical detailing
- Budget-conscious: designed to minimise surprises during construction
- Efficient: layouts that maximise floor area without overcomplication
We believe good design should also be good to build. Learn more about our Knock Down Rebuild approach.
Steps to Get Started
Here’s how we help you bring your dual occ vision to life:
- Site Assessment – We evaluate zoning, overlays, and layout options
- Feasibility – You get a clear idea of what’s possible and what it’s worth
- Design Concept – A plan that reflects your goals, lifestyle, and budget
- Planning + Permits – We prepare and submit council-ready documents
- Builder Coordination – We create plans builders want to quote from
Need help choosing the right site? Read our blog on finding the perfect site for development.
Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, explore property development in Newport to understand the broader picture.
Let’s Create. Redefine. Living.
Dual occupancy is one of the most powerful tools for unlocking value in Newport. Whether you want to invest, downsize, or support family across two homes, it all starts with smart design.
Talk to Barnes & Matina about how we can help you design a dual occupancy that delivers long-term benefits—through better planning, buildability, and design insight.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROJECT & CONTACT US NOW
👉 Book a free strategy session to explore your site’s potential with our team.
Thinking of going further than a dual occ? Learn how to get started with Property Development in Newport here.
FAQ’s
1. What is dual occupancy design in Newport?
Dual occupancy design refers to planning and building two dwellings on a single block of land in Newport, either side-by-side or front-and-rear, to maximise land use and investment return.
2. Can I build a dual occupancy on my block in Newport?
It depends on zoning, overlays, lot size, and access. A building designer can assess your site’s feasibility and propose a compliant, buildable solution.
3. Is dual occupancy a good investment strategy in Newport?
Yes—Newport’s location, land value, and demand make dual occupancy a strong path to wealth creation through rental yield, subdivision, or resale.
4. What approvals do I need for a dual occupancy project in Newport?
You’ll likely need a town planning permit and building permit. Working with a local VBA-registered building designer ensures a smoother process with Hobsons Bay Council.
5. How much does a dual occupancy project cost in Newport?
Costs vary based on design, finishes, and site conditions. Barnes & Matina creates builder-friendly, budget-conscious designs to help clients avoid unnecessary cost blowouts.
For additional insights into what is possible, visit Houzz or Pinterest for some inspo
