Expert Building Design in Hookhams Corner

Hookhams Corner is a quiet, rural locality within Hornsby Shire, nestled between Galston and Glenorie. Known for its large acreage blocks, tranquil bushland, and minimal development, it’s an ideal location for homeowners seeking privacy, space, and a connection to nature—without sacrificing access to nearby village amenities.

At DMR Designs, we specialize in drafting services, council approval assistance & building design in Hookhams Corner. Whether you're planning a rural retreat, expanding an existing home, or adding a second dwelling, we design homes that work with the land, follow Hornsby Council’s rural zoning rules, and meet environmental constraints like slope, bushfire, and on-site wastewater requirements.

We proudly serve Hookhams Corner and the greater Hornsby Shire—delivering thoughtful, functional designs that reflect the lifestyle and landscape of the area.

Why Choose DMR Designs for Building Design in Hookhams Corner?

  • Rural Design Expertise: We design for acreage properties, paddocks, sloping land, and long access driveways

  • BAL & Onsite Services Planning: We handle bushfire assessments and integrate septic solutions

  • Environmental Compliance: Our plans align with Hornsby Shire zoning and tree preservation controls

  • Site-Specific Architecture: Designs that respect the bushland feel and open space of Hookhams Corner

  • End-to-End Project Support: From concept to council submission—we guide you every step of the way

Our Hookhams Corner building design projects balance privacy, planning rules, and lifestyle needs—ensuring a seamless path to approval.

The Hornsby Shire Council Requirements for Building in Hookhams Corner

  • General Setbacks:

    • Front: 15–25m | Side/Rear: 5–10m or more based on property size

  • Floor Space Ratio (FSR):

    • Typically 10% site coverage maximum for RU2 zones

  • Average Block Size:

    • 2 to 10+ hectares; predominantly rural lots with bushfire overlays

  • Zoning:

    • RU2 Rural Landscape

  • Local Considerations:

    • BAL ratings (often BAL 19 or higher), tree preservation, onsite wastewater systems, slope management, and possible ecological constraints

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

For detailed council regulations and submission guidelines, visit the The Hornsby Shire Council website.

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

The Development Application (DA) route is almost always required in Hookhams Corner.

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

DA (Development Application):

  • Required for new homes, alterations, or secondary dwellings in RU2 zones

  • Lodged with Hornsby Shire Council

  • Includes bushfire, geotechnical, and wastewater design inputs

  • Offers more flexibility for custom and rural designs

CDC (Complying Development Certificate):

  • Rarely applicable due to zoning and environmental constraints

We’ll evaluate your site and guide you to the most fitting approval pathway.

 

FAQs About Building Design in Hookhams Corner

  • Yes—most lots in Hookhams Corner fall within bushfire-prone areas. We handle this as part of your approval process.

  • Yes—if your lot size, access, and services meet council requirements. We’ll confirm feasibility and design accordingly.

  • Most projects move from concept to submission in 6–10 weeks, depending on complexity.

  • Not at all—we also work across the entire Hornsby region, including Mount Colah, Hornsby, and Waitara. We're also available for select projects up to 4 hours away from The Hornsby Shire 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?

We’re here to help you take the next step—whether you’re planning a brand-new build or modernizing a classic home.

Our Building Design Services in Hookhams Corner

We design custom rural homes, second dwellings, alterations, large extensions, and new structures to suit lifestyle blocks in Hookhams Corner and beyond.

From modest extensions to striking new builds, our Hookhams Corner building design services help your ideas become reality—stress free.

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 how we’ve brought rural builds and lifestyle homes to life across Hornsby Shire.

Portfolio

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Home Designs

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From peaceful acreage homes to family-ready rural upgrades, our Hookhams Corner building design services are built around your land and lifestyle.

Ready to Start Designing Your New Home in Hookhams Corner?

We’re here to help you take the next step—whether you’re planning a brand-new build or modernizing a classic 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 Hookhams Corner?

DMR Designs proudly services the entire Hornsby Shire Council area—from the riverside homes of Brooklyn and Berowra Waters to the leafy streets of Beecroft, Wahroonga, and Westleigh. Wherever you're building across the Shire, we bring the same expert process and personalized design approach to every project.