Residential Design Services & Process
We help Melbourne homeowners with home extensions, second storey additions, kitchen and bathroom renovations, new homes, and knockdown rebuilds. We take your project from your first idea through to construction - handling design, 3D visualisation, council approvals, and all the paperwork your builder needs.
Home Extensions & New Homes
Site Analysis
Every new home or extension starts with a close look at your block. We check the size, shape, and slope of your land. We also find out what the council will and won't allow.
We look at where the sun hits your block throughout the day. This helps us design a home with good natural light in the right places.
At this stage, we organise the reports your project will need. This often includes a land survey and a soil test. If there are trees to remove or bushfire rules that apply, we bring in the right specialists. By the end of this step, you have a clear picture of your site and all the documents ready for council approvals.
Concept Home Design
Once we know your block, we start designing your home. We use 3D modelling so you can see how the design looks from the very start - not just a flat floor plan.
We work through your brief and think about energy efficiency, building costs, and how the structure will work. We introduce materials and colours early. You will see colour images and walkthroughs of your new home as the design develops.
We also bring interior design into the process from the start. The inside and outside of a home should be planned together. So we think about layout, how each room feels, and how you will move through the space.
Documentation for Tenders
When the design is ready, we put together a detailed set of drawings. This is what builders use to give you a price - often called a Tender Package.
The drawings show all dimensions and construction details. This lets builders give you accurate quotes that are easy to compare. You stay involved during this step too - choosing electrical layouts, lighting, and your final finishes.
The drawings may be updated as the project moves forward, especially if changes are needed for energy ratings or council feedback.
Approvals Documentation
If your project needs a planning permit, we prepare the drawings and coordinate any supporting reports for your council submission.
The next step is the building permit. This means putting together architectural drawings, engineering documents, and specialist reports. These are reviewed by a registered building surveyor.
Most new homes and extensions in Melbourne need a building permit, even if a planning permit is not required. This step makes sure your design meets all building rules before construction starts.
Support During Construction
Once your builder starts, we hand over the final documents and stay available throughout the build.
We can help with any questions from your builder, suggest alternatives if a material becomes unavailable, and prepare extra drawings when needed - things like wall layouts, slab details, plumbing plans, and electrical drawings.
Staying involved during construction helps protect the original design and keeps decisions in line with the approved plans.
The Design Process for Extensions & New Homes
SITE ANALYSIS
CONCEPT DESIGN
TENDER DOCUMENTS
APPROVALS
SUPPORT DURING BUILD
Interior Design Services
Existing Conditions
Interior design starts with understanding your home as it is today. We measure the space and record the layout. We check which walls are load-bearing, where plumbing and electrical services run, and note other structural features. This gives us a set of drawings that show the current state of your home - a solid base for the new design. For larger home renovations, we often measure the whole building so the new work fits naturally with what is already there.
Interior Concept Design
With the existing conditions recorded, we start designing your new interior. We use sketches and 3D modelling to develop the layout and introduce materials and colours early. This way, you can picture how the finished space will look and feel before any work begins.
We look at every part of the home - including hallways, entries, and connecting spaces - and find ways to make them feel special, not just practical. We explore bespoke fittings, unique materials, and finishes that add character. We also keep buildability and budget in mind throughout this step.
Documentation for Builder's Quote
After the design is approved, we prepare a full set of drawings for your builder to price the work. This includes dimensioned plans, technical notes, and joinery drawings for any custom cabinetry or built-in pieces.
Bathrooms and laundries need extra detail to meet waterproofing standards under the building code. We work closely with you during this step to document lighting solutions and finalise your material selections.
Approvals Documentation
Bigger home renovations often involve structural changes. Where walls or structural elements are being altered, a building permit may be needed. We put together the drawings required, coordinate with an engineer, and submit to a building surveyor. This step makes sure your renovation meets all building rules before work begins.
Support During Construction
Once your renovation team is in place, we hand over the final documents and stay in touch during the build. We can answer design questions, help with material substitutions, and prepare extra drawings as needed. Staying involved helps make sure the finished result matches what was designed.
