Frequently Asked Questions

A Building Designer specialises in creating plans for residential buildings including new homes, renovations, and extensions. We focus on practical, creative designs that meet council requirements and building codes. Building Designers work closely with you to translate your vision into detailed plans ready for building approval and construction.

In Queensland, a Building Designer must hold a QBCC Building Design licence, which requires a recognised technical qualification plus at least two years' industry experience. Licence classes — Low Rise, Medium Rise and Open — define what projects a designer may lawfully design.

All Aspects Design Studio is licensed by QBCC for both Low Rise and Medium Rise classes. This allows us to design a wide range of residential projects including new homes, renovations, extensions, and multi-unit developments up to three storeys.

We primarily serve Brisbane and South East Queensland, including suburbs from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast. Our Brisbane base in Hawthorne allows us to efficiently service most SEQ locations for site visits and consultations.

Design costs vary based on project complexity, size, and requirements. We provide a fixed quote after our initial consultation so you know the investment upfront. This transparency allows you to budget effectively for your project.

This depends on project scope, size and complexity. Every project is different and we encourage you to reach out for a consultation to determine how long your project may take, but as a general guide smaller projects may take 3-6 months, while complex site or character homes may take 6-12 months as additional time is required for council lodgements and infrastructure owner approvals.

Most external renovations and internal structural renovations in Brisbane require building approval and therefore need plans. Having professional plans ensures quality outcomes and helps with builder quoting.

We design renovations that complement your existing home style, whether it's a Queenslander, post-war, or modern home. We consider rooflines, materials, proportions, and character elements to create a seamless integration.

Options include rear extensions, side extensions, second storey additions, or raise and build under. The best approach depends on your site, existing home, budget, and lifestyle needs. We assess all options during our initial consultation.

Character housing refers to homes built in or before 1946 (pre-1947) that contribute to Brisbane's traditional streetscape — typically Queenslanders, workers' cottages and bungalows. Under Brisbane City Plan 2014 these homes usually sit within the Traditional Building Character Overlay, which applies specific planning rules to protect their original form and detailing, especially to the street.

Yes — character homes can be renovated, extended and raised. The Traditional Building Character (Design) Overlay Code generally protects the original pre-1947 form and front facade, while allowing more flexibility for sympathetic rear and under-house additions. Our designs respect the original character while delivering modern living spaces, which also helps streamline council approval.

Yes. Pre-1947 homes in the Traditional Building Character Overlay are subject to both the Design and the Demolition overlay codes under Brisbane City Plan 2014, which control removal or demolition of original fabric and changes to the street-facing facade. Most demolition or significant facade change to a pre-1947 house triggers a Development Application (DA). We design to these rules and advise on the likely approval pathway.

We discuss your project goals, inspect your site (if applicable), review any constraints, and understand your budget. After the consultation, we provide a proposal outlining scope, timeline, and fixed fee for the design work.

Yes, we provide 3D visualisations as part of our design process. These help you understand the design before construction begins and are useful for making design decisions and communicating with builders. We also offer a 3d walk-through file.

We design plans that builders love to quote and construct. While we don't build ourselves, we can provide recommendations for builders experienced in your project type. We also coordinate with builders during the design process if you've already engaged one.

We coordinate with structural engineers, surveyors, town planners, building certifiers, energy assessors, and other consultants as required for your project. We collaborate with relevant consultants to ensure a seamless design process.

Most projects need a Building Approval (BA), issued by a private building certifier, before construction. Some also need a Development Approval (DA) from Brisbane City Council — typically a Material Change of Use (MCU) for multi-dwelling developments, a reconfiguring a lot (subdivision) application, or planning approval where a proposal triggers an overlay such as character or flood. We identify which approvals apply during your initial consultation. To understand how the two differ, refer to our resource page: DA vs BA in Brisbane: What's the Difference? →

As a general guide, Building Approval (BA) through a private certifier typically takes 1-2 months once plans are submitted, while a Development Application (DA) with Brisbane City Council usually takes 2-3 months or longer depending on complexity and whether public notification is required. We design to the relevant codes to help minimise delays and information requests.

We provide approval-ready plans and can coordinate the submission process. We work with private building certifiers who assess plans and issue building approvals. For planning approvals, we can recommend experienced town planners.

There's no single rule — it depends on your property and if it's located in Traditional Building Character Overlay. If you're planning to extend, raise and build under, and/or demolish part of a home built in 1946 or earlier (pre-1947), a development application will likely be required. We advise on the pathway during our initial consultation.

Yes. Common approaches include raising and building under to add modern living below, extending at the rear with contemporary open-plan spaces, or restoring the front while transforming the back. The key is thoughtful design that respects the original character while adding the modern living spaces your family needs.

The Traditional Building Character Overlay in Brisbane City Plan 2014 protects the streetscape of pre-1947 suburbs through two codes: the Traditional building character (design) overlay code (controlling height, setbacks, roof forms, materials and changes to the street-facing facade) and the Traditional building character (demolition) overlay code (controlling removal of original fabric). It generally protects the original form and front of the house while allowing sympathetic rear and under-house work. We design to these codes to keep your renovation on the smoothest approval pathway.

Plan costs vary based on the scope and complexity of your renovation. We provide a fixed fee proposal after our initial consultation so you know the design costs upfront before proceeding. Factors affecting cost include whether it is a raise and build under, an extension, full renovation and any site constraints.

Most traditional Queenslanders are suitable for raising. This popular renovation approach doubles your living space by creating new rooms underneath the existing home. We assess your home's suitability during our initial consultation, considering factors like structural condition, flood overlays, and council requirements.

Character overlays are concentrated in inner Brisbane suburbs including Paddington, Red Hill, New Farm, Hawthorne, Bulimba, Norman Park, Camp Hill, Coorparoo, and surrounding areas. However, overlay boundaries can vary street by street, so we always check your specific property's planning constraints.

This depends on project scope, size, and complexity. Every project is different and we encourage you to reach out for a consultation to determine how long your renovation may take, but as a general guide smaller renovations may take 3-6 months from concept to approval-ready plans, while complex character home renovations, particularly those requiring character overlay assessments, may take 6-12 months to allow for council lodgements and approvals.

A Development Approval (DA) is Council's planning approval. It looks at whether your proposal suits the site under City Plan, including character and other overlays. A Building Approval (BA) is issued by a building certifier and confirms the building work meets building codes. Many Queenslander renovations need a BA only, while others need both. Read our guide Development Approval vs Building Approval: What's the Difference? →

Yes. An extension doesn't need to copy the original home to sit comfortably with it. We work with the existing roof forms, proportions and materials so new work feels connected, then decide with you whether the addition should closely match the original or take a clearly contemporary approach. Where the Traditional Building Character overlay applies, work visible from the street usually needs a more sympathetic response, while rear additions often allow more freedom.

It depends on your block, budget and how you want to live. Raising and building under can add significant space without using backyard area, and can also help on flood-affected sites. A rear extension creates a stronger connection between living areas and the yard and can suit lower-set homes or sloping blocks. Many projects combine both. We compare the options early, considering site levels, structure, overlays and the approval pathway, so you can choose with confidence. Read our guide Renovate or Knockdown Rebuild in Brisbane? →

Internal walls can often be removed or altered, subject to structural advice. Verandahs and other street-facing features are treated differently. Within the Traditional Building Character overlay, enclosing or removing a front verandah generally needs planning approval and a design that respects the home's character. Rear verandahs and later additions usually have more flexibility. We confirm what applies to your home before the design is developed.

A Queenslander is a character home, often protected by planning controls and built with traditional timber construction on stumps. Renovating one means considering the home's era (pre-1911, pre-1947 or post-1947), the Traditional Building Character overlay, what can be removed or altered, and how new work ties into the original structure. A standard renovation usually has fewer character constraints, although overlays such as flood can still apply.

Not always. Many Queenslander renovations proceed with Building Approval alone. Where a Development Application is needed, for example for partial demolition or significant changes within the character overlay, we work closely with a town planner who prepares the planning report while we prepare the building design plans. We'll let you know early if your project is likely to need one.

Yes. At the start of every project we review your property's zoning, neighbourhood plan and overlays, and look at the home's era and original features to understand the likely approval pathway. This sets the design direction and helps you avoid investing in ideas that are unlikely to be supported. Where specialist input is needed, we can involve a town planner early.

Timeframes depend on the scope and complexity of your project. Every home is different, so we encourage you to get in touch for a consultation to understand how long your design may take. As a general guide, a straightforward single-storey home typically takes around 3–6 months from concept to approval-ready plans. More complex designs, or sites with challenging overlays, may take 6-12 months to allow for design development and council processes.

In Queensland, Building Designers must hold a QBCC Building Design licence to lawfully offer design services. All Aspects Design Studio holds a QBCC Building Design – Low & Medium Rise licence, allowing us to produce approval-ready plans that meet council requirements for a wide range of new homes.

A typical set of plans includes site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, window and door schedules, 3D visuals and a 3D BIMx model. We also offer additional services such as interior design and materials specifications and can customise the full package to suit your project.

Yes, we have extensive experience designing homes for Brisbane's varied terrain. We work with the natural slope to minimise earthworks costs while creating homes that take advantage of views, breezes, and the site's natural character.

Yes. Brisbane sites can be affected by flood, overland flow, bushfire, landslide and other planning overlays. We investigate relevant site constraints early and allow them to inform the design from the outset. Where specialist assessment is required, we coordinate with the appropriate consultants as part of the project. Read our guide Brisbane Flood Overlays: What They Mean for Your Design →

Yes, we regularly work alongside builders during the design process. Early builder involvement can help with cost planning and practical construction advice. Our plans are designed to be clear and comprehensive for any qualified builder to price and construct.

No. You can begin the design process before selecting a builder. Some clients choose to involve a builder during design development for early pricing and construction input, while others obtain competitive pricing once the documentation is complete. We can work with your preferred builder if you already have one.

Yes. Before you commit to a purchase, we can review the block's zoning, overlays (such as flood, overland flow, bushfire and character), site levels, easements and existing services. This gives you a clear picture of what the site can realistically support and any constraints that may affect design or cost.

Extension plan costs vary based on the complexity and size of your project. We provide a fixed fee proposal after our initial consultation so you know the design costs upfront before proceeding.

Extensions and many renovation projects require building approval through a licensed building certifier. Planning approval may also be required depending on the scope of work, your property's zoning, neighbourhood plan, relevant overlays and whether the proposal meets applicable planning requirements. We review these constraints early and confirm the approvals relevant to your project. Read our guide Development Approval vs Building Approval: What's the Difference? →

Yes. We consider the existing home's form, proportions, rooflines, materials and character when developing the new work. Depending on the project, the extension may closely complement the original home or use a more contemporary approach while maintaining a considered relationship between old and new.

This depends on project scope, size and complexity. Every project is different and we encourage you to reach out for a consultation to determine how long your project may take, but as a general guide smaller projects may take 3-6 months, while complex site or character homes may take 6-12 months as additional time is required for council lodgements and infrastructure owner approvals.

Yes, we have extensive experience designing extensions for Brisbane sloping sites. We work with the natural topography to minimise earthworks while maximising your living space.

A raise and build under involves lifting your existing home and constructing new living spaces underneath. This is a popular Brisbane renovation approach that doubles your living space while preserving your existing home and avoiding demolition costs.

Many Queenslanders, timber homes and post-war houses can be suitable for raising, but every property needs to be assessed individually. Existing structure, site access, floor levels, height limits, flood conditions, character controls and the intended use of the lower level can all affect what is achievable.

Yes. House raising and associated building work require building approval through a licensed building certifier. Planning approval may also be required depending on your property, proposed building height, zoning, neighbourhood plan and relevant overlays such as Traditional Building Character or flood. We review these requirements early so they can inform the design.

Flood constraints can affect the allowable floor levels, use of lower-level spaces, building materials and overall design. A flood overlay does not necessarily prevent a raise-and-build-under project, but the site's specific flood information needs to be understood before habitable areas and floor levels are designed. Where specialist advice is required, we coordinate with the relevant consultants. Read our guide Brisbane Flood Overlays: What They Mean for Your Design →

Timing varies considerably depending on the existing house, scope of renovation, site constraints, structural engineering and whether planning or additional approvals are required. Character homes and flood-affected sites can require additional investigation and coordination. Once we understand your property and proposed scope, we can give you a more meaningful indication of the design and approval timeframe.

Depending on the site and applicable building requirements, the new lower level may include bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas, a home office, laundry, garage, storage or indoor–outdoor entertaining spaces. The appropriate uses depend on floor levels, natural light, ventilation, access and any flood or planning constraints affecting the property.

It depends primarily on your zone under Brisbane City Plan 2014. Townhouses are generally supported in the Low-medium density residential (LMR) zone, while the Low density residential zone usually only allows a dwelling house or dual occupancy. We assess your zone, neighbourhood plan and overlays to give you a realistic view of yield before you commit.

Flood and Overland Flow overlays affect floor levels and car parking; the Traditional Building Character Overlay controls demolition and form for pre-1947 homes; and many areas have a neighbourhood plan that adjusts height, density and built-form outcomes. We review all of these against your site early, because they directly change what is achievable.

Whether an existing house can be demolished depends on the property's zoning, overlays, neighbourhood plan and the age and character status of the building. Traditional Building Character controls can significantly affect demolition opportunities, so we confirm this early as part of site feasibility.

The approval pathway depends on the development type, zone, precinct, neighbourhood plan and site constraints. Many townhouse and duplex developments require a planning application, and subdivision may also require a Reconfiguring a Lot application where separate titles are proposed. Building approval is obtained separately through a licensed building certifier. Read our guide Development Approval vs Building Approval: What's the Difference? →

Before you commit, check the zone and any precinct, the neighbourhood plan, overlays — especially flood, overland flow and character — along with the lot dimensions, frontage, infrastructure and whether any existing house is pre-1947. We offer a feasibility assessment so you can make an offer with a clear understanding of realistic yield and approval risk.

Yes. All Aspects Design Studio holds a QBCC Building Design - Low & Medium Rise licence (No. 15436033), which lawfully permits us to design multi-residential developments up to three storeys. This covers the large majority of townhouse and duplex projects across Brisbane.

Yes. Interior design can be integrated with our building design services so the building design and interiors are developed together, creating greater consistency and allowing important interior details to be considered earlier.

Interior design services can be tailored to your project and the level of assistance you need. Contact us to discuss your home and what you’d like help with.

Depending on the project: flooring, tiles, paint colours, cabinetry finishes, benchtops, splashbacks, tapware, fixtures, lighting, hardware and other interior materials and finishes.

Yes. We design kitchen, bathroom, ensuite and laundry layouts as well as cabinetry, finishes, fixtures and associated interior details.

Yes. We develop custom cabinetry and joinery for kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, wardrobes, living areas, studies and other spaces throughout the home.

Absolutely. If you have inspiration images, materials or a design direction in mind, we use these as a starting point and develop a cohesive interior that works with your home.

Yes. 3D visualisation helps communicate key interior spaces, materials and design ideas before they’re built.

Ideally alongside the building design rather than left until construction. Early planning helps ensure cabinetry, lighting, electrical layouts, materials and building details all work together.