Three-storey homes are fast-becoming a regular feature on many new-build developments across the UK.
Yet for many, years spent living in a two-storey property have prevented them from taking the plunge into this increasingly popular way of living.
Until recently, traditional new homes have been built over two floors using conventional layouts: living, kitchen and dining areas on the ground floor, bedroom and bathroom space on the first.
Now, the rise of three-storey townhouses is giving more people the chance to turn this convention on its head and find a property that often better suit their family situation and lifestyle.
Morris, one of the UK's largest independent house builders, believes homebuyers who haven't yet considered the versatility of three-storey properties should be aware of the following:
- Flexibility - the layout of three-storey properties enables you to tailor your living accommodation to meet your lifestyle and interests. Space can be dedicated for use as a gym, music room, playroom or home office.
- Affordable space - three-storey properties normally provide more square feet of living accommodation per pound than semi-detached or detached properties, as the footprint on which the house stands is smaller. This makes owning a larger property more affordable.
- Privacy - the family lounge is often located on the first floor rather than the ground floor, which provides additional privacy and creates a more peaceful setting to relax in. Its raised position provides better views and keeps the hustle and bustle of the street at arm's length.
- Great for teenagers - three-storey properties can offer an ideal solution for parents eager to give their teenage tearaways their own 'zone' at the top of the house, while the parents' bedroom and family living room can stay on the remaining floors.
- Elderly relatives - three-storey properties that have a downstairs bedroom and shower-room can provide ideal 'live-in' accommodation for elderly relatives on the ground floor, removing the burden of costly modifications if the need arises.
- Space to work - the three floors can be separated neatly into working, sleeping and living spaces, giving people that regularly work from home their own permanent office in a dedicated part of the house.
Chris Minshall, regional sales director for Morris, says: "We find that three-storey layouts suit the needs of many buyers due to their flexibility. As people change and families grow, a three-storey property is ideally placed to change shape. Rooms can be re-configured to provide different types of living space on different floors, from studies to playrooms. They're perfect for indulging your lifestyle."
There is currently a range of three-storey houses for sale at Morris' popular Lea Wood Edge development near Wigan, Lancashire (www.morrishomes.co.uk/lea-wood-edge/). The scheme overlooks picturesque Winstanley Park and is within easy reach of Wigan's shops, bars and restaurants.
Prices at Morris' Lea Wood Edge development start from £169,500. To find out more call Morris' sales office, open Thursday to Monday between 10.30am and 5.30pm, on 01942 215233. Alternatively, visit www.morrishomes.co.uk/lea-wood-edge/.