Expert Building Design in Hornsby

Hornsby is the dynamic heart of the Upper North Shore—offering a vibrant mix of high-rise living, family homes, and leafy residential pockets. With Westfield Hornsby, major transport connections, quality schools, and nearby bushwalks in Berowra Valley National Park, the suburb appeals to professionals, downsizers, and growing families alike.

At DMR Designs, we specialize in drafting services, council approval assistance & building design in Hornsby—providing tailored design solutions for new builds, renovations, and duplexes that comply with the Hornsby Shire Council’s varied planning zones. Whether you’re updating a post-war cottage, maximizing a sloped block, or building a new family home, we bring the local knowledge and approvals expertise you need.

DMR Designs proudly serves Hornsby and all suburbs across the Hornsby Shire. We also take on select projects up to 4 hours from the council boundary.

Why Choose DMR Designs for Building Design in Hornsby?

  • Versatile Design for Mixed Housing Types: From older red bricks to dual occupancies and infill developments, we adapt to the site.

  • Experience with Slope and Access: Many blocks in Hornsby are elevated or split-level—we design for both aesthetics and practicality.

  • Smooth Council Navigation: We manage bushfire compliance, drainage requirements, and streetscape considerations.

  • Infill and Rebuild Specialists: Perfect for those modernizing established homes or rebuilding with better layout and flow.

  • Start-to-Finish Support: From drafting to DA or CDC submission, we take care of the entire process.

Our Hornsby building design projects are built for the landscape, the lifestyle, and the local rules.

The Hornsby Shire Council Requirements for Building in Hornsby

  • General Setbacks:

    • Front: 6m–9m | Side: 900mm–1.5m depending on height and zoning

  • Floor Space Ratio (FSR):

    • Typically 0.4:1 in R2 zones, higher in R3 or R4 for medium density

  • Average Block Size:

    • Ranges from 500–800 sqm in low density zones to smaller lots near the town center

  • Zoning:

    • R2 Low Density Residential, with pockets of R3 and R4 near the CBD

  • Local Considerations:

    • Some areas have bushfire risk, steep terrain, or drainage easements. Infill lots must comply with character guidelines and infrastructure constraints.

Building in Hornsby 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 Hornsby Project?

Approval pathways in Hornsby vary depending on block location and zoning.

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

DA (Development Application):

  • Required for sloping lots, dual occupancies, or works near trees/drainage

  • Assessed by Hornsby Shire Council

  • Allows for greater design flexibility, especially in constrained or unusual lots

CDC (Complying Development Certificate):

  • May apply to standard homes or extensions in flat, clear sites

  • Faster approvals via private certifier

  • Not suitable for BAL-affected or flood-prone areas

We assess your site and choose the path that minimizes delays while ensuring compliance.

 

FAQs About Building Design in Hornsby

  • Yes—DMR Designs specializes in modern rebuilds that meet local regulations and maximize your site’s potential.

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

  • Duplexes may be permitted in certain zones, such as R2 (under certain conditions) or R3. We’ll confirm what's allowed on your property.

  • 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 Hornsby

We design knockdown rebuilds, custom homes, dual occupancies, renovations, extensions, and multi-residential projects tailored for Hornsby’s diverse landscape and planning rules.

From modest extensions to striking new builds, our Hornsby 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

Explore how we’ve helped other Hornsby homeowners modernize their living spaces, unlock value, and create smart, compliant homes with long-term appeal.

Portfolio

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Home Designs

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From rebuilds to urban infill, our Hornsby building design services are built around your goals—without the stress.

Ready to Start Designing Your New Home in Hornsby?

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 Hornsby?

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.