Frequently Asked Questions

No, I am not a builder. I am your design and planning partner. My job is to prepare the high-detail plans and technical documentation you need for council approvals and construction. Keeping the design and build phases separate gives you full control. Once the design is complete, you can take the plans to multiple builders to compare quotes ensuring you find a contractor that fits your style, budget and quality expectations.

In 2026, professional custom design and drafting fees in Sydney typically range from $6,000 to $30,000+ depending on the project's scale and complexity.   Because every project is unique, I provide a tailored fee proposal rather than fixed flat rates. I do not base my fees on construction cost percentages; I calculate them based on actual project scope and site complexity.

Every project begins with a clear, written fee proposal.   Our standard service typically covers in-depth design consultations, site analysis, custom concept design, and detailed plans for DA, CDC and CC submission.   I also offer optional services such as co-ordination of required external consultants, 3D Modelling, Interior Design (cabinetry and finish schedules), and Site Representation during construction.

Most residential projects in Sydney typically take around 3 to 6 months to progress from initial concept design through to final approval.   The design and drafting phase usually takes around 4–8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the home and how quickly design decisions are finalised.   Once the drawings are complete, the approval process is lodged through the NSW Planning Portal and assessed by either a private certifier (for CDC applications) or the local council (for DA applications). Approval timeframes can vary, but generally range from 2 to 12+ weeks, depending on the pathway chosen and the workload and assessment timeframes of the relevant local council or certifier.

Yes. I prepare all documentation required for the NSW Planning Portal. I have extensive experience and high approval rates in councils right across Sydney including The Hills District, Hornsby, Parramatta, Blacktown, Penrith, the Inner West, Canada Bay and the Blue Mountains. I ensure your project is compliant with local LEPs and DCPs from the start.

It depends on your site, planning controls, and whether the proposed design complies with NSW planning standards.   A CDC (Complying Development Certificate) is a fast-track approval for projects that meet strict state planning rules under the NSW Housing Code. It is typically assessed by a private certifier and can often be approved within 2–5 weeks. A DA (Development Application) is a merit-based assessment lodged through the NSW Planning Portal and assessed by your local council. It allows more flexibility in design but usually takes longer, commonly 2–4 months or more depending on council workload.

WWith a Master’s Degree in Sustainable Design, I ensure your home is engineered for performance.   Meeting the stricter BASIX and 7-star NatHERS standards in 2026 requires smart Passive Solar design. In simple terms, I optimize orientation for the sun and cross-ventilation to create a home that is naturally comfortable and significantly cheaper to run.

Yes. I have extensive experience achieving council approvals for heritage projects all over Sydney, particularly in Leichhardt, Concord, Strathfield, and Burwood.   I specialize in preserving the character of Federation and Victorian homes while adding seamless, modern rear extensions. My heritage work has received national acclaim for a number of projects, including our most recent Salt St Design (https://editor.wix.com/salt-street-heritage-extension-sydney)- Winner (Best Heritage) at the BDAA National Design Awards 2025.

Yes. Designing for sloping sites is a core specialty.    I focus on "stepping" homes with the natural contours to reduce excavation costs and maximize views. My expertise is proven by award-winning projects like my steep-site custom home in Mulgoa (https://editor.wix.com/mulgoa-custom-home-design-sydney)a(https://editor.wix.com/mulgoa-custom-home-design-sydney)nd a dual-home development in Beecroft where I successfully managed strict heritage and tree protection controls. See our BeecorftA (https://editor.wix.com/38a-malton-rd-interior-design)and BeecroftB H(https://editor.wix.com/38b-malton-rd-interior-design)omes from that site.

Yes. I am recognized in high-risk bushfire design, specializing in homes that are safe and aesthetically pleasing.   I understand how to navigate RFS requirements using non-combustible materials.   My expertise is demonstrated by my Mount Riverview (https://editor.wix.com/mt-riverview-custom-home-design-sydney)p(https://editor.wix.com/mt-riverview-custom-home-design-sydney)roject, another National Award Winner designed to BAL-40 standards, and my work in Beecroft dual home development - BeecorftA a(https://editor.wix.com/38amaltonroad-development-custom-home-sydney)nd BeecroftB (https://editor.wix.com/38bmaltonroad-development-development-custom-home-sydney)which balance bushfire compliance with heritage restrictions.

No. While my practice delivers a level of precision and design excellence comparable to an architect, I am not a registered architect. I am a Chartered and Accredited Building Designer (Accred. No. 6164 - Low Rise) with formal qualifications in design and technical drafting and a Masters Degree in Sustainable Design from the University of Sydney. I specialize in designing and producing high-quality detailed plans for construction approvals of all types of custom residential projects and small-scale commercial projects. With 30 years of experience and over 25 industry awards, I successfully deliver design solutions across a diverse range of building styles right across Sydney and NSW.