Budget-Friendly Filipino 2 Storey House Ideas for Small Lots

In the Philippines, building a house is a major dream for many families. However, finding the right design that fits your budget and the size of your lot can be a challenge. If you have a small piece of land and want to build a two-storey home, the good news is that it’s very possible. With proper planning, the right layout, and cost-saving techniques, you can build a beautiful, functional home without spending too much. In this article, we will look at several budget-friendly Filipino 2 storey house ideas for small lots.

Why Choose a 2 Storey House?

A two-storey house offers more living space even on a small lot. Instead of building wide, you build up. This is ideal for urban or suburban areas where lot sizes are limited. You can have separate spaces for living, sleeping, cooking, and storage without feeling cramped.

Two-storey homes also offer more privacy, especially if bedrooms are located on the second floor. This separation of spaces is useful for families with children or multi-generational households.

Key Considerations Before Building

Before you start building, it’s important to think about the following:

1. Lot Size and Shape: Measure the total area and check the layout of your lot. A square or rectangular lot is easier to work with, but L-shaped or narrow lots can also be designed smartly.
2. Budget: Set a realistic budget. In the Philippines, low-cost houses can be built for PHP 800,000 to PHP 1.5 million, depending on size, materials, and design.
3. Local Building Code: Check the rules in your barangay or municipality. There are regulations about building height, setbacks, and space use that you must follow.
4. Lifestyle Needs: Think about how many people will live in the house and what spaces are needed. Prioritize the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and common areas.
5. Future Plans: If you plan to expand or improve your home in the future, keep this in mind while designing.

Budget-Friendly Filipino 2 Storey House Ideas

Below are some practical and affordable ideas for 2 storey homes on small lots in the Philippines.

1. Compact Box-Type Design

This is one of the simplest and cheapest designs. It features a square or rectangular layout with a flat or slightly sloped roof. The first floor usually has the living room, kitchen, and dining area. The second floor has the bedrooms and a small bathroom. Box-type designs are cost-effective because they are easy to build, and there is less material waste.

2. Open Plan Ground Floor

An open layout for the ground floor saves space and construction costs. By combining the living, dining, and kitchen areas, you make the space feel larger and avoid building too many walls. Use dividers or furniture placement to separate the areas if needed.

3. Two Bedrooms with Balcony

For small families, a two-bedroom layout with a small balcony upstairs offers comfort and style. The balcony adds character to the house and can also serve as a mini outdoor space without needing extra lot area.

4. Loft-Style Second Floor

Instead of a full second floor, a loft-style design adds a sleeping area above the living space. This reduces construction cost and gives the house a modern feel. It is ideal for couples or small families who don’t need multiple bedrooms.

Image Source: AllProperties

5. Use of Affordable Building Materials

To reduce overall cost, use materials that are strong, affordable, and locally available. Hollow blocks, steel frames, metal roofs, and cement flooring are commonly used in Filipino homes. For interiors, consider using plywood or pre-fabricated boards for walls and ceilings. These materials are easier to install and cost less.

6. Multi-Purpose Rooms

Maximize your space by designing multi-purpose areas. A guest room can also be used as a study or home office. A storage area under the stairs can be turned into a small toilet or pantry. Each space should serve more than one function.

7. Compact Bathroom Design

Bathrooms can take up a lot of space and budget. A small bathroom with a combined shower and toilet area can save both. Use tiles only in wet zones and paint the rest with water-resistant coating to lower cost.

Image Source: Real Living Philippines

8. Pre-Designed Plans or Modular Kits

Many local contractors and architects offer pre-designed house plans that are affordable and ready to use. These designs are tried and tested, and modifications can be made to suit your lot. There are also modular house kits available that are pre-built and assembled on-site, saving time and labor costs.

Tips to Keep Costs Down

Stick to a simple shape and avoid too many design features

• Limit the number of bathrooms and unnecessary walls
• Use natural ventilation and lighting to reduce electricity use
• Hire a local contractor or foreman with experience in small-lot homes
• Source materials from local suppliers or reuse materials from other projects
• Consider building in stages if the budget is tight

Final Thoughts

Building a two-storey home on a small lot in the Philippines is very possible, even on a budget. The key is to plan wisely, choose a simple but smart layout, and focus on functionality over luxury. Whether you prefer a box-type house, a loft-style room, or a compact two-bedroom home, there are many design options to suit your needs.

Budget-friendly Filipino 2 storey house ideas are not only practical but also stylish and space-efficient. With the right plan and team, you can turn your small lot into a home that meets your goals and gives your family the comfort they deserve.

If you are planning to build soon, consult with a licensed architect or engineer to help you create a design that matches your lot size, lifestyle, and budget. With good design and careful planning, your dream home can become a reality.