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‘Every time I’m approached by a customer looking to build dual occupancy, my first question is always ‘what are you trying to achieve?’,’ - Boutique Developments Consultant, Andrew Nixon.'Multiple homes via dual occupancy means you outlay costs for one block of land but sell multiple dwellings, increasing your profit potential'
Boutique Developments is here to help you create your ideal home regardless of your goal. From your forever home with luxury designer elements, to a quality home to help leverage rental returns. Out industry-leading inclusions and expert team are here to help you realise your vision.
Read more: 7 tips for building dual occupancy.
Andrew and Kat Moore, our Interior Design Manager give us their top 6 tips for choosing the perfect colours and finishes for your dual occupancy project to ensure the best return on investment. 1. Prioritise key areas
Invest in your kitchen and bathroom as they are always attractive to potential tenants and buyers.
‘Spending a little extra money on your master ensuite and kitchen will pay huge dividends in the rental and selling market,’ says Andrew.
‘Consider floor-to-ceiling tiles, fluted glass shower screens, and relatively inexpensive additions like niches or shelves for a touch of luxury to your home aesthetic.’
If this is your forever home, explore our premium joinery offering to add a designer element to your space and create a higher end look.
‘Curved batten island benches with a front waterfall create a high-end feel,’ says Kat.
Incorporating integrated appliances can introduce an extra element of astonishment, which can be by simply adding a built-in wine cooler or integrated microwaves to achieve a modern look and finish.
2. Selling your dual occupancy?
If you’re looking to resell your dual occupancy home, particularly in competitive suburbs, we recommend you opt for a sophisticated colour scheme.
‘Potential buyers will view the home staged, so you have the opportunity to go a bit darker and more opulent in your colour schemes,’ – Andrew.
‘Combine moody paint tones with black cabinetry and fixtures for a timeless, luxurious aesthetic’ says Kat.
3. Renting your dual occupancy?
We recommend you to consider neutral colours to make the home feel spacious and inviting.
Tenants will inspect the home empty, so you want the home to feel as big and neutral as possible. ‘This allows them to envision their own furniture and family within the home,’ explains Andrew.
Consider playing with lighter colours together with natural ply timber. ‘This will make for a calm and inviting space,’ says Kat.
‘Keep the rooms fresh and airy with light greys and whites. Oak floors add warmth to the space, while VJ panelling or low-sheen paint provide interest and texture at a lower cost.
4. Invest in key structural features
If this is your forever home, consider investing in features that are not easily updated later.
‘Think larger ceilings complimented with higher doors. Increased sizes can make the entire home feel big and airy,’ suggests Andrew.
‘I also always suggest looking at heating and cooling options that have multiple zones. Whether potential tenant, buyer or your own home, people always place a high price on comfort.’
Staircases and skylights can also transform the feel of your space and create a “wow factor”
‘We have a range of stunning architectural staircases that have a grand presence and won’t be quickly forgotten,’ says Kat.
5. Ensure your dual occupancy investment is tenant-proof
If you plan to rent your dual occupancy, it is key you tenant-proof your home.
‘You don’t want to break the bank with a rental property but to do this, you still need to ensure your colours and finish selections are durable and easy to maintain,’ says Andrew
‘High-traffic areas such as your Caesarstone benchtops and tiles in your bathroom and kitchen should be in colours that are easy to keep clean.’
Vinyl flooring, is a cost-effective, low maintenance option for a rental as they are water resistant, while also being more hardwearing when compared to hardwood.
6. Pay attention to small details
Lighting and window furnishings add cosiness to your space. For a neutral palette, consider blinds or venetians as a cost effective way to ensure your space feels inviting.
‘For a higher-specification home, consider investing in sheers and shutters which can add a designer element,’ advises Kat.
‘Thoughtful lighting, including pendants and decorative fixtures as well as staircase and strip lighting, can bring your design to life.’
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, you’ll have your personal, qualified Interior Designer to guide you through the entire colour selection process and provide expert advice every step of the way.

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