Dual Occupancy and Multi-Dwelling Developments

Since the updated planning reforms were introduced on Sydney’s North Shore, we’ve seen increased client activity. Each council area now has the potential to unlock significant value for homeowners and developers considering dual occupancy and multi-dwelling developments.

While this is welcomed, and we see the potential for quality-driven diversification, turning the idea of developing an existing residential building into dual occupancy or multi-residential property is not a simple tick-the-box application. Each council still maintains its planning controls and regulations, and these LGAs, Kur-Ring-Gai, North Sydney, Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Willoughby, Northern Beaches, and Mosman, all have some of the more stringent planning requirements of any council in New South Wales.

To maximise potential opportunities, it is essential to work closely with an experienced architectural firm that understands the nuances of each council’s approval process and can guide a design that meets the regulatory requirements while fulfilling the ambitions of the proposed development.

In this article, I aim to help answer the critical questions that will ensure the success of your project.

“Can I build a secondary dwelling on my existing property under the current regulations?”
Confirm what your land is zoned for, and what council restrictions apply. In the latest reforms, many North Shore areas that are zoned R2 now allow dual occupancies and larger lots, or medium density (R3) sites might permit multi-dwelling development such as townhouses. You can check your Local Environment Plan (LEP) at the relevant council or speak to us.

“Do I need an architect or can my builder handle the design?”
There is no right answer; however, many people have spent significant sums of money only to see their applications rejected due to insufficient or poorly executed design submissions. Each council has strict rules, and issues such as heritage protection, bushfire controls, height limits, tree preservation, setbacks, floor-space ratios, and many others can bring ill-prepared applications unstuck.

Your application will address these concerns from the start by engaging a professional architect with experience working with the various North Shore councils. Additionally, an architect has valuable insights and will often determine a course that provides enhanced opportunities for the site that may be overlooked without professional consideration.

We advise taking the necessary time and engaging a professional architect from the concept stage. A properly considered design and thorough application will avoid costly revisions.

“Will the design make it through council?”
The architect’s job is to ensure that it does. It should be a collaborative process where the architect begins with the design and planning phase, to balance your wish list and budget with council regulations. Not all architects are the same, and our approach focuses on designing to comply from the beginning.

As experienced architects, we work to unveil creative solutions to achieve your density needs with a keen eye on maintaining privacy, street appeal, and amenity to meet the intent of the planning rules. We prepare the detailed documentation and, for larger multi-dwelling projects, this can include specialist reports such as traffic impact, geotechnical soil report, and landscaping plans.

Leaving crucial details out of any application will be problematic and even more so for dual occupancy or multi-dwelling developments.

“How long will approval take, and what if the council says no?”
This is where an architect is an essential member of your team. An architect who is experienced with the local councils will have devised the appropriate approval pathway before applying and ensured your project complies with the necessary regulatory requirements. You may be able to bypass a DA via a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), which can take as little as 20 days. This must be handled by private certifiers and meet strict, predefined standards.

In most cases, a development anywhere on Sydney’s North Shore, particularly multi-dwelling proposals, must go through a DA process.

At Playoust Churcher Architects, we prepare and lodge the DA, including the required drawings, reports, and design statements. If the council requests changes or needs clarification, we handle these communications and provide any required revisions.

Considering the application meets all the council requirements, a DA will take approximately 3-4 months, including a public notification period.

“The DA has been approved. What are the next steps before choosing a builder, and who oversees the project?”

By this stage, you will have already made a significant investment. The next stages are critical to ensure the project is able to be constructed and to that end, the preparation of interior design and construction documents is essential for a builder to be able to both price from and build from. Choosing the right builder with qualified oversight can significantly improve your ROI. By partnering with Playoust Churcher Architects for your dual occupancy or multi-dwelling development, you can access an architectural process that works with you throughout the journey. We will provide a selection of fully vetted builders who are highly suitable for your project. You can tender or negotiate with them and make a confident choice.

During the construction phase, we remain engaged and oversee the construction, protecting the design. We also assist with on-site decisions and respond to any issues that may arise.

The residential planning reforms provide an exciting time for Sydney’s North Shore, but don’t underestimate the complexities involved. While councils are open to new developments, they fiercely protect the area’s character and prioritise new construction meeting their exacting standards.

If you are considering the possibilities for your site, ensure you do your homework and collaborate with an architect who knows the local council. Be prepared to prioritise quality design and compliance to give yourself the best possible outcome.

Playoust Churcher Architects is Sydney’s North Shore’s most respected architectural firm. We have been an integral part of the area’s architectural fabric for over thirty years.

We specialise in dual occupancy and multi-dwelling developments and invite you to view our projects. An integral part of your journey with us is our comprehensive process approach, tailored to meet the demands of our clients and council regulatory frameworks. Our team is well-positioned to maximise your financial return and is committed to delivering value that minimises risk and ensures projects stay on schedule and within budget.

Contact our team for a comprehensive consultation on your project.