custom house designs brisbane
let's create your dream new build
When it comes to new home designs, the sky’s the limit.
With no existing structures to constrain our creativity, we can explore nearly limitless design potential. Whether you’re dreaming of inviting areas to entertain, cozy relaxation spaces, or guest-friendly quarters, we’ll design a home that allows you to live exactly how you envision.
Orientation is one of the most overlooked but influential elements of home design, which is why we will carefully consider it to reduce Brisbane’s glaring summer sun and welcome the gentle winter light, enhancing your living experience year-round.
Get in touch to see how I can bring your vision to life!
About Three Stems
Hi there, I’m Stella! I’m an experienced residential building designer with a passion for helping Brisbane families create their ideal living space.
Designing a new home is an adventure filled with endless possibilities. Together, we can bring your vision to life, creating a space that’s perfectly attuned to your lifestyle, preferences, and needs.
I’ll listen to your needs, assess your block, and work with you to design a floor plan layout that will become a home you and your family will love for years. If you’re considering an accompanying granny flat to accomodate those hobbies or other family members, I can help with that too!
Whether you’re looking for a single storey, double storey, contemporary or traditional Queenslander-inspired design, I can not only design your vision, but also take care of the nitty-gritty pre-site process and approvals.
three stems new home design services
Single Storey House Plans
Thoughtfully designed to maximise space, comfort and accessibility, my single-level home designs offer a perfect blend of style and practicality.
I’ll consider every detail to ensure your new home is as functional as it is beautiful, and work closely with you every step of the way, so your new home is a true reflection of you.
Double Storey House Plans
For those seeking additional space while retaining precious yard space, wanting to make the most of those Brisbane vistas, or possibly those looking for a bit of separation.
My double-storey house plans deliver innovative design solutions that make the most of your property. With your input, I will craft each plan to provide seamless living experiences across multiple levels, tailored to your specifications.
Customised Home Solutions Tailored to your Unique Circumstances
Are you building on a slope, subdividing, or have other landscape considerations that need to be incorporated into your home’s design?
Or perhaps you would like a home that is as individual as you. At the heart of my new home designs is a commitment to translating your unique preferences and circumstances into a stunning reality.
I also offer transparent pricing packages without hidden fees that include a FREE 90-minute consultation with an experienced interior designer!
Three Stems Projects
my custom house designs
Check out the below selection of beautiful new builds and renovation projects I have completed for my clients. You may find inspiration for your own home!
I have successfully transformed homes across the Brisbane and Ipswish areas, including Moorooka, Salisbury, Yeronga, Holland Park, Greenslopes, East Brisbane, Paddington, Wooloowin, Sadliers Crossing, and Woodend, to name a few.
faqs
have questions about designing a new home?
What’s the difference between a drafter, building designer, and architect?
- Drafter: A drafter can draw plans but cannot submit them for certification or construction. You will need a licensed professional to handle that part.
- Building Designer: We design and document your plans, ready for certification and construction, as we are licensed and insured. This is the sweet spot for affordability if you’re making structural changes without needing full-blown architectural designs.
- Architect: They have been at uni a looong time, have higher qualifications, and they can charge the dollars to suit. They are required to be board registered.
How long does the pre-site process take?
In short, generally 3-4 months from our first site visit to gaining approvals for the build.
The timeline depends on factors like how quickly you make decisions, as well as any site-specific applications or restrictions, such as town planning, relaxations, and BOS applications. Here’s a typical timeline:
- Surveyor: Provides the survey within 2 weeks of the initial site visit.
Once I receive her plans and conduct my site measure, whichever comes last,
- First Draft: Sent within 2 weeks after receiving the survey plans and completing the site measure.
- Subsequent Drafts: Turnaround is significantly quicker.
- Engineer: Takes 2 weeks to complete their part.
- Final Plans: Provided within 1 week after the engineer’s work is done.
- Builder Contract: Now is the time to get your builder to provide the contract.
- Certifier Approval: Takes up to 1 month, depending on the involved applications.
Do you provide options for the layout?
Yes! In the first revision I generally provide 2 floor plan options, and sometimes a few different alternative layouts for say the bathroom or kitchen.
What does a building certifier do?
A building certifier is the ultimate checklist checker. They go through and ensure that the plans comply with the Queensland Development Code (QDC), specific council requirements etc. This includes verifying that buildings are structurally sound, safe from fire, protected against pests, and meet energy and water efficiency standards. Then at the end of the build, they will come back and confirm that the builder built as per the plans.
While private building certifiers issue most building approvals, Brisbane City Council also offers these services. Certifiers must lodge building work documentation with the Council and conduct technical inspections throughout the building process.
More information about the building approval or certification process is available on the BCC website at this link.
Does the pre-site package include all the external consultants I need?
The pre-site package includes all the consultants required for most projects. Some projects require extra consultants, and you will be advised during the preliminary design phase.
Can someone help me with choosing colours?
Absolutely! As part of the pre-site package, a 90-minute onsite colour consultation is included free of charge with my Interior Designer Stephanie from Margaux Interiors. If you need further support we can arrange a price for a full specification document to be provided.