Expert Building Design in Paddington
Paddington is one of Sydney’s most iconic suburbs, renowned for its Victorian terrace houses, heritage streetscapes, boutique shopping, and thriving arts scene. Its blend of heritage charm and inner-city convenience makes it highly sought after by professionals, creatives, and families.
DMR Designs provides building design services in Paddington that respect the suburb’s unique heritage character, while introducing modern comfort and functionality. Our expertise ensures every project aligns with Woollahra Municipal Council’s planning controls.
We proudly deliver designs that blend style, innovation, and compliance for homes in Paddington.
Why Choose DMR Designs for Building Design in Paddington?
Heritage Expertise: Sensitive design solutions for Paddington’s Victorian and Federation terraces.
Compliance Knowledge: Navigating Woollahra Council’s strict heritage and zoning requirements.
Creative Adaptability: Designs that maximise space while respecting heritage façades.
Lifestyle Focus: Homes tailored for urban living with modern amenities.
Sustainable Design: Eco-conscious features integrated into traditional-style homes.
Our Paddington designs carefully balance heritage preservation and contemporary needs.
Wooollahra Council Requirements for Building in Paddington
Zoning types:
R1 General Residential
R2 Low Density Residential
Some B1/B2 Local Centre zoning around commercial areas
Setbacks:
Street alignment typically follows existing terrace façades
Rear setbacks vary but usually 4m–6m for extensions
Typical lot sizes:
Narrow terrace lots: 120m² – 250m²
Larger blocks near edges: 300m² – 450m²
Key constraints:
Heritage conservation controls are widespread
Strict limits on façade alterations and rooflines
Overshadowing and privacy are key considerations
Utilities available:
Fully serviced with water, sewer, gas, electricity, and NBN
Building in Paddington requires balancing modern liveability with heritage-sensitive design.
For detailed council regulations and submission guidelines, visit the Woollahra Council website.
DA vs CDC: What’s Right for Your Paddington 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):
Almost always required in Paddington due to heritage overlays.
Needed for external changes, extensions, or multi-dwelling projects.
CDC (Complying Development Certificate):
Suitable only for some internal renovations or minor works.
Limited applicability due to heritage constraints.
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 Paddington
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Yes, but all works must comply with heritage controls and council approval.
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Open-plan living, attic conversions, and rear extensions are common solutions.
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Many do, especially in conservation zones, but each property should be checked individually.
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While we know the Woollahra area well, we also work across many suburbs within the Woollahra Municipal Council area, including Double Bay, Paddington, Vaucluse, and more. Additionally, we are available for select projects up to 4 hours away from the Woollahra Council area.
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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 luxury coastal homes to specialized compliance plans, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. We’d love to hear about your Woollahra project and how we can assist.
Our Building Design Services in Paddington
We create custom designs for terraces, duplexes, and urban homes that respect Paddington’s history while enhancing comfort.
Our process ensures compliance with Woollahra Council while delivering stylish, practical results.
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?
From Plans to Reality: See How It All Comes Together
Discover our Paddington portfolio, showcasing designs that combine heritage integrity with modern innovation.
Portfolio
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Home Designs
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With DMR Designs, your Paddington project will be timeless, functional, and compliant.
Ready to Start Designing Your New Home in Paddington?
We’re here to help you take the next step, whether you’re
starting fresh or upgrading your woollahra 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 Paddington?
DMR Designs proudly works with homeowners across the entire Woollahra Municipal Council area. From Double Bay and Paddington to Vaucluse and beyond, we bring the same personalized design approach to every project—no matter where you call home.