Expert Building Design in Parma

Parma is a rural locality in the Shoalhaven region, known for its expansive farmland, forested landscapes, and peaceful lifestyle. Many properties are set on large acreage, making it popular for those seeking privacy, self-sufficiency, or equestrian and agricultural pursuits. With its wide-open spaces, Parma provides a tranquil escape while still being within reach of Nowra and the South Coast beaches.

At DMR Designs, we deliver building design in Parma that respects the rural setting while providing all the modern comforts. Our expertise lies in designing homes that work with large properties, including homesteads, farmhouses, sheds, and secondary dwellings. Each design is carefully tailored to Shoalhaven Council planning regulations to ensure compliance while enhancing lifestyle and functionality.

Our Parma building designs balance rural practicality with style, sustainability, and long-term comfort, ensuring every home complements its acreage setting.

Why Choose DMR Designs for Building Design in Parma?

  • Acreage Expertise: Tailored designs for large rural properties and lifestyle farms.

  • Practical Layouts: Homes designed with space for sheds, stables, and workshops.

  • Sustainable Integration: Energy-efficient features suited to rural living.

  • Council Compliance: Knowledge of Shoalhaven Council rural zoning and planning controls.

  • Customised Homesteads: Designs that reflect the balance of modern living and country charm.

Our Parma designs bring together style, practicality, and compliance to suit this unique rural setting.

Shoalhaven City Council Requirements for Building in Parma

 

  • Zoning types:

    • RU2 Rural Landscape

    • E3 Environmental Management

  • Setbacks:

    • Larger front and side setbacks (20–30m typical for rural lots)

    • Outbuildings may require specific positioning for fire safety and access

  • Typical lot sizes:

    • Rural lots: 2–40 hectares

    • Smaller residential-style lots near boundary edges: 2,000–5,000 sqm

  • Key constraints:

    • Bushfire-prone land considerations

    • On-site wastewater systems often required

    • Limited subdivision potential under current zoning

  • Utilities available:

    • Generally tank water and on-site sewer systems

    • Electricity and NBN fixed wireless available in most areas

Building in Parma requires thoughtful rural design solutions that respect the landscape and Shoalhaven Council guidelines.

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

DA vs CDC: What’s Right for Your Parma 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 most rural properties due to bushfire overlays, environmental factors, or large-scale dwellings.

  • Necessary for agricultural buildings, sheds, and multiple dwelling projects.

CDC (Complying Development Certificate):

  • May be possible for certain smaller secondary dwellings or compliant single homes.

  • Often limited in rural areas due to zoning and bushfire 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 Parma

  • Acreage homesteads, contemporary farmhouses, and lifestyle properties with large sheds or stables.

  • Yes, many properties are classified as bushfire-prone, requiring BAL ratings, setbacks, and fire-resistant materials.

  • Absolutely. Many owners choose solar systems, tank water, and energy-efficient designs for long-term sustainability.

  • 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 Parma

We specialise in acreage building design in Parma, from family homesteads to working farm properties. Our services cover site planning, sustainable integration, and full council approvals.

From start to finish, our designs deliver functionality, compliance, and lasting value for rural lifestyles in Parma.

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 Parma projects showcase how rural homes can combine functionality, elegance, and environmental sensitivity.

Portfolio

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Home Designs

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Building in Parma requires a deep understanding of rural zoning and council regulations—and that’s exactly what we provide.

Ready to Start Designing Your New Home in Parma?

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 Parma?

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.