Expert Building Design in Ashbury

Ashbury is a quiet residential suburb in the Inner West, celebrated for its heritage Federation and Californian Bungalow homes, tree-lined streets, and strong community atmosphere. With nearby schools, parks, and access to transport, Ashbury is a desirable suburb for families seeking a balance of suburban peace and city convenience.

DMR Designs offers customised building solutions in Ashbury that respect its heritage character while ensuring compliance with Inner West Council planning regulations.

We proudly serve Ashbury with designs that emphasise comfort, functionality, and timeless appeal.

Why Choose DMR Designs for Building Design in Ashbury?

  • Family-Oriented Layouts: Spaces tailored for everyday living and family connection.

  • Suburban Harmony: Designs that complement Ashbury’s Federation and bungalow streetscapes.

  • Compliance Expertise: In-depth knowledge of Inner West Council’s planning controls.

  • Sustainable Practices: Energy-efficient designs that suit modern living.

  • Adaptable Spaces: Renovations and new builds for families, professionals, and multi-generational households.

Our Ashbury designs balance heritage preservation, lifestyle needs, and council compliance.

Inner West Council Requirements for Building in Ashbury

 

  • Zoning types

    • R2 Low Density Residential

    • R3 Medium Density Residential

  • Setbacks

    • Front setbacks typically consistent with established heritage streets

    • Side and rear setbacks depend on lot dimensions and dwelling type

  • Typical lot sizes

    • Detached homes: 350m² – 600m²

    • Duplex/townhouse sites: 400m² – 700m²

  • Key constraints

    • Large portions of Ashbury are heritage conservation areas

    • Strict controls on façade changes and rooflines

    • Height restrictions to maintain neighbourhood scale

  • Utilities available

    • Fully serviced with water, sewer, electricity, gas, and NBN

Building in Ashbury requires sensitive design approaches that blend heritage integrity with modern functionality.

For detailed council regulations and submission guidelines, visit the Inner West Council website.

DA vs CDC: What’s Right for Your Ashbury Project?

Whether it’s a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), we’ll guide you in finding the fastest and most compliant approval pathway—anywhere in New South Wales.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you understand the difference:

DA (Development Application):

  • Typically required for heritage-listed properties or works affecting the façade and streetscape.

  • Necessary for duplexes, multi-dwellings, or projects outside CDC standards.

CDC (Complying Development Certificate):

  • Best for straightforward renovations, internal changes, or compliant single dwelling additions.

  • Offers faster approval when projects align with council zoning and heritage requirements.

Need help figuring out which route suits your site? We’ll assess your block and walk you through your options.

 

FAQs About Building Design in Ashbury

  • Yes, but external changes often need council approval to ensure they respect the suburb’s heritage character.

  • Yes, on appropriately sized lots within R2 or R3 zones, though heritage controls may influence design.

  • Federation, Californian Bungalows, and modern rear extensions are the most typical.

  • While we know the Inner West area well, we also work across many suburbs within the Inner West Council area, including Newtown, Marrickville, Leichhardt, and more. Additionally, we are available for select projects up to 4 hours away from the Inner West Council area.

  • Cost depends on the scope of your project. We’ll walk you through pricing during your discovery call so you know exactly what to expect.

Ready to take the next step?

From terrace renovations to specialized compliance plans, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. We’d love to hear about your Inner West project and how we can assist.

Our Building Design Services in Ashbury

We provide tailored designs for heritage renovations, new homes, and duplexes that fit seamlessly within Ashbury’s established character.
From first sketches to council approval, we prioritise style, compliance, and liveability.

What to Expect: Our Building Design Timeline

A step-by-step look at how we take your project from concept to council approval and beyond.

Every project starts with a discovery call and ends with council-approved, build-ready plans.

Here’s how we make it easy from start to finish:

Step 1 - Discovery Call

  • Let’s chat! We’ll have a quick call to understand your project and see how we can help.

Step 2 -Site Visit & Consultation (5–7 days)

  • We’ll meet at your site (or virtually), take a closer look, and discuss your vision in detail.

Step 3 - Fee Proposal (2 days)

  • You’ll get a clear, no-surprises proposal with the scope, timeline, and costs.

Step 4 - Concept Design (4 weeks)

  • We’ll create initial design ideas and layouts tailored just for you.

Step 5 - Design Development & Expert Coordination (2 weeks)

  • We’ll fine-tune the design and collaborate with any needed specialists (engineer, energy consultant, town planner, geo tech engineer, bushfire, heritage consultant, etc).

Step 6 - Final Adjustments (1 week)

  • We’ll polish everything and prepare the final drawings for submission.

Step 7 - Submission for Approval

  • We handle the council or certifier submission, so you’re ready for the next steps.

Want the full breakdown?

View our detailed process here.

From Plans to Reality: See How It All Comes Together

Discover our Ashbury portfolio, showcasing designs that merge heritage charm with modern needs.

Portfolio

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Home Designs

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Building in Ashbury demands thoughtful planning and execution—something we deliver every time.

Ready to Start Designing Your New Home in Ashbury?

We’re here to help you take the next step, whether you’re

starting fresh or upgrading your INNER WEST home.

We’d love to hear what you have in mind. Book a discovery call or send us a message, and we’ll be in touch within 48 hours.

Not based in Ashbury?

DMR Designs proudly works with homeowners across the entire Inner West Council area. From Newtown and Marrickville to Leichhardt and beyond, we bring the same personalized design approach to every project—no matter where you call home.