bespoke raise and build under plans
Boost your living space as well as your view!
Imagine doubling your home’s floor area without reducing your yard space.
From a spacious new living area and additional bedrooms, to a home office, guest suite, or even dual living potential.
This transformative renovation can drastically enhance your home’s functionality and value – with the added bonus of capturing views and enjoying those summer breezes.
At Three Stems, I specialise in creating bespoke raise and build under plans that maximise space, boost functionality, and maintain the unique character of your home.
Let’s turn your vision into a reality!
About Three Stems
Hi there, I’m Stella!
As an experienced building designer, I specialise in elevating and expanding Queenslander and post-war style homes across Brisbane and Ipswich to accommodate the growing needs of homeowners and families.
My passion lies in collaborating closely with you to understand your and your family’s requirements and wishes, and transforming these insights into extraordinary home designs, extensions and renovations.
Whether you require extra bedrooms or bathrooms, a dedicated office space, outdoor space or even dual living potential, I will craft house raising designs that add square footage, align with your design preferences, and make the best use of space for your family’s needs.
If you’d like to explore your options without the overwhelm, then get in touch and I’ll be happy to provide a free consultation.
thoughtfully-planned build-in-under designs
tailored Design Plans to Suit Your Lifestyle
Every family is unique, which is why my raise and build under plans are customised to align with your lifestyle and preferences, and work with the possibilities presented by your existing property.
Together, we’ll create a space that feels cohesive with your Queenslander or post-war style home while offering the contemporary conveniences, comfort, and style you desire.
innovative Solutions That Comply With Regulations and Building Codes
I devise innovative solutions to make the best use of your space. This involves considering factors such as flood risk, and any Brisbane or Ipswich City Council regulations and a Traditional Building Character (TBC) overlays your property may be subject to.
One of the many benefits of working with a residential building designer is that I am thoroughly familiar with TBC regulations and codes. I can advise you whether your home is affected, how to adhere to applicable guidelines, and navigate relevant council approvals – saving you time, money and potential headaches.
inclusive and transparent design packages
I offer transparent pricing packages without hidden fees and work with you to develop raise and build under design plans that fit your budget.
My pre-site extension packages also include a FREE 90-minute consultation with an experienced interior designer, so you can be sure you’ll love the end result!
Three Stems Projects
my brisbane home redesigns
Check out the below selection of beautiful raise and build under 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 raising and building under your home?
Could someone please walk me through the process of building in under a raised Queenslander house in Brisbane. Where do I start?
Building under a raised house is a significant project, but here’s how to tackle it step by step:
Start with a budget. Be realistic and stick to it. Let your builder know upfront so they can confirm whether your project is feasible – because let’s be honest, none of my clients have suddenly won the lotto mid-build! Prices/m2 can vary, but as a guide you should allow $4000-$5000/m2. The bigger the build, the lower the rate per square metre can be.
Get everyone on the same page. Decide what’s non-negotiable and what’s flexible. Be sure that everyone living in the home agrees on the plan before the design process starts.
Now it’s time to speak to a building designer. We’re more cost-effective than architects and still deliver thoughtful, creative designs – just without the unnecessary frills.
The order of professionals that you require are as follows:
- Surveyor – to map your site
- Building designer – We’re more cost-effective than architects and deliver thoughtful, creative designs without unnecessary frills
- Town planner – if council approval is required
- Engineer – for structural calculations
- Certifier – for building approvals
- Additional consultants – for site-specific reports if needed
- Builder – needs to see completed plans before providing quotes
Some building designers, like myself, can coordinate all these consultants for you to keep the project running smoothly. But if you’re confident and have contacts, you’re welcome to manage this part yourself.
I hope this helps! For more info, check out my answers to other FAQS.
When do I need a building certifier if I’m undertaking an extension or renovation to my home?
A building certifier is required if any part of your proposed design involves engineering. Their role is to assess and approve the plans before construction begins and then confirm, once the build is complete, that it was constructed in line with the approved proposal. The proposal includes the following:
- Site plan
- Existing and demolition floor plans
- Proposed floor plans
- Existing and demolition elevation plans
- Proposed elevation plans
- Engineering specifications and details
- Any additional site-specific reports
The certifier may also assist with or request:
- Relaxations – Required if the proposed design sits closer to a boundary than the allowable setback.
- Site coverage assessment – Needed if the dwelling exceeds the allowable site coverage percentage.
- BOS (Build Over Services) – An application to the asset owner (e.g. Brisbane City Council or Urban Utilities) if building over sewer or water infrastructure.
- BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rating – Required for sites in bushfire-prone areas.
- Energy efficiency reports – Ensures compliance with minimum sustainability standards.
How many changes can I make to the plans?
The initial draft will be sent through to you with options, based on the onsite consultation.
The first plan will provide the layout as discussed and an alternative option as applicable. You then have 2 opportunities to make changes to your selected layout.
What are different roof types?
There are a few main roofs that are well know and used in high frequency in Brisbane residential housing. Most homes will use one or more in combination to provide interest and articulation.
- Gable
- Hip
- Skillion
- Parapet
What are the livable housing design guidelines?
The livable housing design guidelines are technical provisions that have been set to help meet the needs of the community. The main requirements are to allow access to and through the dwelling. Providing wider openings and doorways, and reducing any trip hazards.
What is BAL?
The Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating categorises the severity of potential bushfire exposure and dictates the minimum construction requirements necessary to increase a building’s resistance to bushfires.
BAL-LOW: Low risk, no special construction requirements.
BAL-12.5: Low to moderate risk, some ember protection required.
BAL-19: Moderate risk, additional ember protection and protection against radiant heat.
BAL-29: High risk, more stringent requirements for ember protection and radiant heat.
BAL-40: Very high risk, even stricter construction requirements.
BAL-FZ (Flame Zone): Extreme risk, requires the highest level of protection, including against direct flame contact.
When designing a building in a bushfire-prone area, knowing the BAL is essential to ensure compliance with local regulations and to enhance the safety of the building’s occupants.
