Expert Building Design in Unanderra

Unanderra is a diverse suburb in Wollongong, combining residential areas, local shopping precincts, and light industrial zones. It is well-connected by train and major road links, making it a practical location for families and professionals. Housing in Unanderra includes post-war cottages, modern brick homes, duplexes, and increasing knockdown-rebuild projects as the suburb grows in popularity.

At DMR Designs, we deliver tailored building design in Unanderra that reflects the suburb’s mix of established homes and modern redevelopment opportunities. Our designs ensure that every project makes the most of the area’s accessible location while aligning with Wollongong City Council planning controls.

We focus on creating homes that balance functionality and style, ensuring every design suits both lifestyle needs and the practicalities of Unanderra’s zoning and site conditions.

Why Choose DMR Designs for Building Design in Unanderra?

  • Adaptable Spaces: Designs for families, downsizers, and professionals.

  • Urban Efficiency: Compact layouts ideal for smaller suburban blocks near amenities.

  • Knockdown Rebuilds: Modernise older homes into stylish, functional residences.

  • Compliance Expertise: Clear navigation of Wollongong City Council rules.

  • Sustainable Practices: Energy-efficient designs for long-term comfort and value.

Our Unanderra building designs combine lifestyle, compliance, and practical living tailored to the suburb.

Wollongong Council Requirements for Building in Unanderra

 

  • Zoning types:

    • R2 Low Density Residential

    • R3 Medium Density Residential in select areas

    • IN2 Light Industrial near commercial precincts

  • Setbacks:

    • Front setbacks commonly 6m

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

  • Typical lot sizes:

    • Detached homes: 500–750sqm

    • Duplex/townhouse lots: 600–800sqm with frontage requirements

  • Key constraints:

    • Sloping blocks near escarpment require slope-sensitive design

    • Traffic noise near major roads and rail lines

    • Industrial adjacency in some areas

  • Utilities available:

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

Building in Unanderra requires careful planning to balance residential design with local site conditions while meeting Wollongong City Council standards.

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

DA vs CDC: What’s Right for Your Unanderra 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, townhouses, and multi-dwelling projects.

  • Necessary for sites affected by slope, overlays, or non-standard designs.

CDC (Complying Development Certificate):

  • Suitable for single homes or extensions that meet council standards.

  • Not available for blocks with overlays or non-compliant lot sizes.

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 Unanderra

  • A mix of post-war homes, brick houses, duplexes, and modern rebuilds.

  • Yes, in R3-zoned areas and larger R2 lots that meet frontage requirements.

  • Yes, sloping blocks may require split-level or retaining wall solutions.

  • While we know the Wollongong area well, we also work across many suburbs within the Wollongong City Council area, including Corrimal, Fairy Meadow, Figtree, and more. Additionally, we are available for select projects up to 4 hours away from the Wollongong 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 homes to specialized compliance plans, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. We’d love to hear about your Wollongong project and how we can assist.

Our Building Design Services in Unanderra

We provide customised building design in Unanderra for homes, duplexes, townhouses, and extensions. Many projects involve transforming older homes into modern residences that better suit today’s family and professional needs.

From design concept to council approval, we deliver solutions that combine compliance, practicality, and style.

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 Unanderra projects highlight how thoughtful design can revitalise established streetscapes while providing modern comfort and efficiency.

Portfolio

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Home Designs

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With DMR Designs, your Unanderra building design will achieve the perfect blend of lifestyle and compliance.

Ready to Start Designing Your New Home in Unanderra?

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

starting fresh or upgrading your Wollongong 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 Unanderra?

DMR Designs proudly works with homeowners across the entire Wollongong City Council area. From Corrimal and Fairy Meadow to Figtree and beyond, we bring the same personalized design approach to every project—no matter where you call home.