Multi Dwelling Development Two Three Bed Units

Two three-bedroom luxury units in Cremorne, Sydney

Retrofitting can often be more challenging than designing from scratch. This project required redesigning an existing building and transforming it into two – three three-bedroom luxury units. While this sounds simple enough, the existing building required significant structural modifications and careful adherence to its heritage significance under the North Sydney residential planning codes.

The outcome

Our team worked closely with the North Sydney Council to ensure that each aspect of the application met the criteria and that setbacks and delays would be mitigated prior to construction. With DA approval, the development got underway, with our oversight from start to finish. The result was special. Each of the two units has maximum floor space with enhanced views and light-filled living zones.

“We are so happy we used Playoust Churcher Architects for a major renovation of our Lower North Shore home. This complex architectural job combined advanced engineering, design and innovation and a creative approach to modern living. Playoust Churcher supported us from conception to completion – and well beyond.

 

They understood our lifestyle and desire for a collaborative approach and delivered us a dream home with which it would be hard to be happier. We’re delighted to recommend Playoust Churcher to anyone building or renovating a prestige home in Sydney.”

Justin & Marek

“We provided a very detailed brief on the design and the requirements both in terms of how it would support our family as it grew over time in addition to the design features that were important to us. We were thrilled with the concept and design they delivered. It ticked all the boxes.

 

We felt very confident the team understood our brief in terms of the design and how we hoped to live. They also showed an understanding of the financial requirements and cost issues that are really important whenever you undertake any renovation project.”

Nadia & Jamieson

 “Playoust Churcher Architects had an inherent understanding of the brief, and the design created a classic Roseville family home with wonderful proportions, depth and detail.

 

It’s now recognised as a stand-out in the area – people slow down and stare as they drive past.”

Kate & Scott

“When Brett and John came they just listened. John is so talented that we just trust him. I told John what I wanted our home to look like and to go for it. John can draw the designs upside down all by hand and you know exactly what he is doing. He is really talented and that was very obvious from the beginning. He is so passionate about what he does.

 

They were respectful of costs and just listened to what we wanted. There is a lot to say for architects that listen. The house works perfectly with our needs – there is a flow that works beautifully.”

Lisa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a two-to-three-bedroom multi-dwelling development?

It’s a small-scale, design-led residential project featuring two or three units on a single site—often combining dual occupancy, townhouses, or attached dwellings. These schemes balance liveability, architectural quality, and site efficiency while fitting local zoning requirements.

Where are such developments permitted in Sydney?

They are commonly allowed in R2 residential zones and SEPP-designated areas—including the North Shore, Northern Beaches, and inner-west—provided planning controls like setbacks, height, and density are satisfied under council LEP/DCP frameworks.

What planning controls impact these developments?

Key considerations include building setbacks, maximum height, parking and access, landscaped areas, privacy buffers, and potential heritage or environmental overlays. Each development must comply with local council requirements or SEPP provisions.

What benefits do two-to-three-bedroom units offer compared to larger townhouse developments?

This scale supports better integration into neighborhood context, easier approval pathways, cost efficiency, and rental or resale potential—while still achieving strong architectural presence and liveability.

How does Playoust Churcher design these developments for quality and compliance?

We undertake feasibility and rezoning analysis, create masterplan layouts that maximise daylight, circulation, and privacy, and coordinate documentation and DA submission to deliver coherent, client-focused design.

How is unit layout optimised for rental or home‑owner use?

Typical designs include open-plan living zones, outdoor extensions or courtyards, flexible bedrooms, and daylight-optimised floor planning—designed to appeal to families, downsizers, or investors while preserving architectural character.

How can I start a multi-dwelling development project?

Begin with a feasibility consultation. We assess your site’s zoning, overlays, and development capacity. From there, we develop a concept masterplan, outline DA strategy, and provide design-led guidance to achieve compliant outcomes.

Book a feasibility consultation to explore your site

Have questions? Chat
with our team today.

11 Marian Street
Killara NSW 2071
Australia

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