Expert Building Design in Cromer

Cromer offers a relaxed, suburban lifestyle with close access to Narrabeen Lagoon, bush reserves, and the beaches. With many homes built mid-century on generous lots, it’s a prime location for knockdown rebuilds, modern extensions, and dual occupancy potential—especially on sloped or corner blocks.

At DMR Designs, we specialize in drafting services, council approval assistance & building design in Cromer. Whether you're updating an older red brick home or designing a fresh new build, we create site-specific designs that make the most of Cromer’s unique location and council requirements.

We proudly serve Cromer with practical, stylish home designs that support family living and long-term value.

Why Choose DMR Designs for Building Design in Cromer?

  • Rebuild & Extension Experts: We revamp older homes with modern, compliant designs

  • Split-Level Options for Sloping Sites: Efficient use of vertical space with minimal excavation

  • Smart Dual Occupancy Layouts: Unlock rental potential or multi-gen living

  • Family-Focused Floorplans: Open-plan, zoned living with natural light and outdoor flow

  • Hassle-Free Approvals: From BAL assessments to DA submissions, we manage it all

Our Cromer building design services deliver real results—combining lifestyle, compliance, and long-term performance.

Northern Beaches Council Requirements for Building in Cromer

 

  • Zoning:

    • R2 Low Density Residential, with some environmental overlays on bush-adjacent sites

  • Setbacks:

    • Front: Typically 6–7.5m

    • Side: 900mm–1.5m depending on wall height

    • Rear: 3–6m based on lot size and slope

  • Typical Lot Sizes:

    • 550–850+ sqm, often rectangular with gentle to moderate slopes

  • Key Constraints:

    • BAL ratings may apply on lots near bushland edges

    • Driveway gradients need careful planning on steeper sites

    • Drainage and overland flow need management on older lots

    • Heritage items are rare but may affect adjacent properties

  • Utilities:

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

Building in Cromer requires careful consideration of zoning overlays, bushfire ratings, and environmental planning policies.

For detailed council regulations and submission guidelines, visit the Northern Beaches Council website.

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

Both DA and CDC are used frequently in Cromer, depending on the complexity of the site and design. Whether it’s a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), we’ll guide you through the process from start to finish.

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

DA (Development Application):

  • Suitable for sloping sites, full rebuilds, or dual occupancies

  • We handle documentation, assessments, and council coordination

CDC (Complying Development Certificate):

  • Ideal for compliant extensions or rebuilds on flatter sites

  • We assess your site and fast-track the process when possible

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 Cromer

  • Yes—subject to site size and setbacks. We assess your block for dual occupancy, granny flat, or secondary dwelling potential.

  • Absolutely. Many Cromer lots are gently sloped—perfect for split-levels that reduce excavation and increase usable space.

  • Yes—passive design principles, solar orientation, and natural ventilation are standard in all our plans.

  • It depends on your exact location—coastal hazard assessments are often required. We handle all necessary documentation.

  • Not at all! While we love working in spots like Avalon, Narrabeen, and Dee Why, we also take on projects across the North Shore, Ku-ring-gai, and even further out. We’re open to select builds up to 4 hours from the Northern Beaches 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 custom home designs to council-ready plans, we’re here to guide your project every step of the way. Let’s bring your vision to life — reach out today.

Our Building Design Services in Cromer

From stylish family homes to dual occupancy projects and creative extensions, our Cromer building design services adapt to your goals and your site.

We build designs that grow with you—practical, polished, and ready for the future.

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

Take a look at our builds in similar leafy suburbs—optimized for slope, sun, and space.

Portfolio

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Home Designs

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Our Cromer building designs combine comfort and compliance, so you can enjoy every part of your property.

Ready to Start Designing Your New Home in Cromer?

We’re here to help you take the next step! whetheR It’s

a new chapter or a fresh upgrade

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 Cromer?

DMR Designs proudly serves the entire Northern Beaches—from Palm Beach and Avalon to Dee Why and Manly. Wherever you're building, we bring the same precision, creativity, and local know-how to every design.