Expert Building Design in Old Erowal Bay

Old Erowal Bay is a quiet residential suburb located near St Georges Basin and only minutes from the beaches of Jervis Bay. The area features a mix of older cottages, modern family homes, and investment properties, making it a popular choice for both permanent residents and holidaymakers. With its affordable housing options and proximity to Huskisson and Vincentia, Old Erowal Bay offers convenience alongside a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

At DMR Designs, we specialise in building design in Old Erowal Bay that reflects the suburb’s balance of established homes and new developments. Our expertise ensures each project aligns with the area’s character while fully complying with Shoalhaven Council planning regulations.

We are dedicated to creating homes in Old Erowal Bay that combine modern style, functionality, and sustainability while respecting the local environment.


Why Choose DMR Designs for Building Design in Old Erowal Bay?

  • Practical Layouts: Designed to suit families, retirees, and investors.

  • Suburban Harmony: Homes that blend with the existing streetscape.

  • Sustainability: Eco-friendly features for long-term value and comfort.

  • Compliance Expertise: Skilled in meeting Shoalhaven Council planning rules.

  • Adaptable Spaces: Flexible solutions for growing families or dual-use living.

Our Old Erowal Bay designs deliver homes that are stylish, compliant, and tailored to the community’s needs.


Shoalhaven City Council Requirements for Building in Old Erowal Bay

 
  • Zoning types:

    • R2 Low Density Residential

    • R3 Medium Density Residential

  • Setbacks:

    • Front setbacks usually 5–7.5m

    • Side and rear setbacks vary with dwelling type and lot size

  • Typical lot sizes:

    • Standard residential lots: 550m² – 750m²

  • Key constraints:

    • Bushfire overlays for properties near bushland

    • Flood-prone areas close to the Basin

    • Noise considerations due to proximity to Huskisson’s tourism activity

  • Utilities available:

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

Designing in Old Erowal Bay requires attention to council standards while maximising the lifestyle appeal of this growing suburb.

For detailed council regulations and submission guidelines, visit the Shoalhaven City Council website.


DA vs CDC: What’s Right for Your Old Erowal Bay 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):

  • Required for duplexes, multi-dwelling projects, or lots with bushfire/flood constraints.

  • Necessary for designs seeking variations beyond CDC allowances.

CDC (Complying Development Certificate):

  • Suitable for single homes, extensions, or secondary dwellings that comply with council controls.

  • A faster option for straightforward projects.

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 Old Erowal Bay

  • Older fibro cottages, renovated family homes, and newer brick residences are typical.

  • Yes, some lots near the Basin may have flood constraints that influence design and approvals.

  • Absolutely, we create adaptable layouts suited for permanent living, rentals, or holiday accommodation.

  • While we know the Shoalhaven area well, we also work across many suburbs within the Shoalhaven City Council area, including Nowra, Huskisson, Ulladulla, and more. Additionally, we are available for select projects up to 4 hours away from the Shoalhaven 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 coastal retreats to bushfire-compliant plans, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. We’d love to hear about your Shoalhaven project and how we can assist.


Our Building Design Services in Old Erowal Bay

We provide complete building design in Old Erowal Bay, from custom single homes and duplexes to knockdown rebuilds and extensions. Each project is crafted to suit the suburb’s evolving residential character.

From concept through to approval, our service ensures your Old Erowal Bay project is functional, compliant, and built for long-term value.

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

Our Old Erowal Bay designs highlight the blend of coastal living and suburban convenience, ensuring each home is practical and appealing.

Portfolio

Home Designs

With our expertise, building in Old Erowal Bay becomes a smooth and rewarding process that delivers homes tailored to this community’s lifestyle.


Ready to Start Designing Your New Home in Old Erowal Bay?

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

starting fresh or upgrading your Shoalhaven City 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 Old Erowal Bay?

DMR Designs proudly works with homeowners across the entire Shoalhaven City Council area. From Nowra and Huskisson to Ulladulla and beyond, we bring the same personalized design approach to every project—no matter where you call home.