Expert Building Design in Tumbledown Dick

Tumbledown Dick is one of the most secluded and untouched locations on the Northern Beaches, set within the protected expanse of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. This unique enclave offers panoramic Pittwater views, deep bushland serenity, and a lifestyle completely immersed in nature. With no road access, properties here are reachable only by water or bush tracks, making them some of the most private and exclusive in Sydney. Building in Tumbledown Dick comes with significant environmental and logistical considerations, requiring experience with challenging terrain, bushfire safety, and strict council and National Park regulations.

DMR Designs specialises in creating bespoke homes that respect Tumbledown Dick’s rugged beauty. Our designs integrate off-grid solutions, sustainable building practices, and materials suited to its remote environment.

We provide building designs in Tumbledown Dick that capture its wild charm while ensuring long-term comfort and resilience.

Why Choose DMR Designs for Building Design in Tumbledown Dick?

  • Tailored Designs: Custom solutions for steep, bushland blocks

  • Sustainable Systems: Solar power, rainwater collection, and waste treatment

  • Bushfire-Ready: BAL-rated design for high-risk zones

  • Access Planning: Specialist strategies for delivering materials to remote sites

  • Minimal Impact: Designs that blend into the natural landscape

Our Tumbledown Dick projects balance luxury living with environmental responsibility.

Northern Beaches Council Requirements for Building in Tumbledown Dick

 

  • Zoning types

    • Primarily E4 Environmental Living or National Park

    • Enhanced environmental protection due to ecological significance

  • Setbacks

    • Front: Variable depending on slope and vegetation

    • Side: 2–4 m minimum, often increased for bushland buffers

    • Rear: Larger setbacks for waterfront or conservation land

  • Typical lot sizes

    • Irregular boundaries, steep inclines, and rocky outcrops

    • Limited building envelope due to topography and vegetation

  • Key constraints

    • No direct vehicle access — boat or walking track entry only

    • High BAL ratings influencing design and materials

    • Strict vegetation clearing restrictions

    • Low height limits to preserve visual amenity

  • Utilities available

    • Full off-grid systems required for power, water, and waste

    • No connection to mains sewer, gas, or water supply

Building in Tumbledown Dick requires careful planning, specialist logistics, and innovative design.

For detailed council regulations and submission guidelines, visit the Northern Beaches Council website.

DA vs CDC: What’s Right for Your Tumbledown Dick Project?

DMR Designs ensures your Tumbledown Dick project meets all regulatory requirements while embracing the area’s remote beauty. Whether it’s a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), we’ll guide you through the process from start to finish.

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

DA (Development Application):

  • Nearly always necessary due to zoning and environmental overlays

  • Required for new builds, alterations, and any vegetation removal

CDC (Complying Development Certificate):

  • Limited to very minor works under strict compliance

  • Rarely applicable for full builds or significant renovations

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 Tumbledown Dick

  • Yes, with reliable off-grid power, water, and waste systems.

  • Weather-resistant, bushfire-rated materials such as Colorbond steel, hardwood, and fibre cement.

  • We plan for staged deliveries via boat and optimise construction timelines to suit access limitations.

  • Not at all! While we love working in spots like Avalon, Narrabeen, and Dee Why, we also take on projects across the North Shore, Ku-ring-gai, and even further out. We’re open to select builds up to 4 hours from the Northern Beaches 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 custom home designs to council-ready plans, we’re here to guide your project every step of the way. Let’s bring your vision to life — reach out today.

Our Building Design Services in Tumbledown Dick

From initial planning to final drawings, we create designs that harmonise with the site’s natural surroundings and meet the highest sustainability standards.

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 our Tumbledown Dick portfolio to discover how we combine remote living with architectural excellence.

Portfolio

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Home Designs

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Our Tumbledown Dick building designs offer a rare mix of seclusion, sustainability, and breathtaking views.

Ready to Start Designing Your New Home in Tumbledown Dick?

We’re here to help you take the next step! whetheR It’s

a new chapter or a fresh upgrade

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 Tumbledown Dick?

DMR Designs proudly serves the entire Northern Beaches—from Palm Beach and Avalon to Dee Why and Manly. Wherever you're building, we bring the same precision, creativity, and local know-how to every design.