Single-Storey vs Two-Storey Cost in Ireland — Which Is Cheaper, Which Is More Cost-Efficient
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Single-storey bungalow: cheapest per m² (€2,500–€3,200), but largest footprint means more foundation and roof. A 150 m² bungalow on a 150 m² footprint: 150 m² of foundation, 150 m² of roof. A 150 m² two-storey on a 75 m² footprint: 75 m² of foundation, 75 m² of roof. The two-storey is more cost-efficient. Two-storey: most cost-efficient use of the site (€2,700–€3,500/m²). Smaller footprint, more efficient for sloped sites. Dormer bungalow: compromise (€2,700–€3,500/m²). More usable upstairs, smaller roof. Best for accessibility and sloped sites. Most Irish self-builds on standard sites choose two-storey for the cost efficiency; on accessibility-focused sites, the single-storey is the right answer despite the higher m² cost.
TL;DR
Single-storey bungalow: cheapest per m² (€2,500–€3,200), but largest footprint means more foundation and roof.
Two-storey: most cost-efficient use of the site (€2,700–€3,500/m²). Smaller footprint, more efficient for sloped sites.
Dormer bungalow: compromise (€2,700–€3,500/m²). More usable upstairs, smaller roof. Best for accessibility and sloped sites.
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Frequently asked questions
Is a bungalow cheaper to build than a two-storey in Ireland?
Cheaper per m² (€2,500–€3,200 vs €2,700–€3,500), but the larger footprint means more foundation and roof. For the same floor area, a two-storey is usually cheaper overall.
What is the most cost-efficient house form?
Two-storey. Smaller footprint, less foundation and roof, same floor area. Most common in suburban Ireland.
Is a single-storey house more accessible?
Yes. All rooms on one level, no stairs. Best for ageing in place and mobility issues. Part M (Access for People with Disabilities) compliance is easier.
Sources
SCSI, Tender Price Index Q1 2026. https://www.scsi.ie/
Frequently asked questions
Is a bungalow cheaper to build than a two-storey in Ireland?
Cheaper per m² (€2,500–€3,200 vs €2,700–€3,500), but the larger footprint means more foundation and roof. For the same floor area, a two-storey is usually cheaper overall.
What is the most cost-efficient house form?
Two-storey. Smaller footprint, less foundation and roof, same floor area. Most common in suburban Ireland.
Is a single-storey house more accessible?
Yes. All rooms on one level, no stairs. Best for ageing in place and mobility issues. Part M (Access for People with Disabilities) compliance is easier.