Of course. Here is a detailed project brief for a knock-down rebuild at 117 Chapel Road, Moorabbin.
Project Brief: Chapel Road, Moorabbin – Contemporary Knock-Down Rebuild
1. Project Vision
To execute a full knock-down and rebuild at Chapel Road, Moorabbin. The project will replace the existing modest dwelling with a high-quality, contemporary home designed for modern family living. The objective is to maximise the potential of the 606 m² block, creating a valuable asset that is architecturally aligned with the evolving, high-demand nature of the Moorabbin residential market.
2. Site Analysis & Feasibility
This initial phase is crucial for establishing the design and construction parameters.
- Site Assessment: A comprehensive site survey is required to map topography, boundaries, easements (especially important for suburban blocks), and the location of existing utility services. A soil test will also be necessary to inform the engineering of the new foundation.
- Council Regulations: Detailed investigation of the Kingston Planning Scheme is required. Key considerations for a Moorabbin property like this include:
- Zoning: The property is in a General Residential Zone (GRZ). It’s crucial to check the specific schedule for this zone, which dictates setbacks, site coverage, and building height.
- Neighbourhood Character: The design of the new home must respect the prevailing neighbourhood character, even if it is a contemporary design. This influences facade articulation, material choice, and roof form.
- Overlays: Confirm if any overlays (such as a Public Acquisition Overlay or Special Building Overlay) affect the site, as this could impact the buildable area.
- Dual Occupancy Potential: Given the 606 m² land size, a preliminary assessment should be made on the feasibility of a dual-occupancy development (side-by-side townhouses), which could represent the highest and best use of the land, subject to council approval.
3. Design & Development Phase
This phase will define the architectural outcome, whether for a single home or a dual-occupancy project.
- Option A: Single Luxury Home
- Architectural Style: A modern, double-storey design focusing on efficient use of space, natural light, and low-maintenance living.
- Design Brief:
- Accommodation: 4 bedrooms (master with ensuite and WIR), 2-3 bathrooms, plus a powder room.
- Living Zones: An open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area as the heart of the home. A second living area/lounge or upstairs retreat for family flexibility. A dedicated study nook or home office.
- Features: A high-quality entertainer’s kitchen with stone benchtops and premium appliances, a double garage with internal access, and an alfresco area for indoor-outdoor living.
- Garden: A functional, landscaped backyard with enough space for children to play.
- Option B: Dual-Occupancy Development (STCA)
- Architectural Style: Two contemporary, side-by-side townhouses, each with its own street frontage and private open space.
- Design Brief (per unit):
- Accommodation: 3-4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms (including master ensuite).
- Living Zones: Open-plan living/dining area downstairs, potentially with a small retreat upstairs.
- Features: Single or double garage for each unit, private courtyard/garden, and high-quality, modern finishes designed to appeal to the premium rental and resale market.
4. Permitting & Site Preparation Phase
This phase focuses on securing approvals and preparing the site.
- Town Planning: A project of this nature (especially dual-occupancy) will require a Town Planning Permit from Kingston City Council before a building permit can be sought. This involves submitting detailed plans for council assessment and potentially public notification.
- Building Permit: Once planning is approved, detailed construction drawings and engineering plans are submitted to a building surveyor to obtain a Building Permit.
- Demolition:
- Secure a demolition permit and arrange for the safe abolishment of all services.
- Undertake the complete demolition of the existing house and any other structures.
- Clear and prepare the site for the commencement of construction.
5. Construction & Delivery Phase
The final phase where the new vision is realised.
- Builder Selection: Tender the project to a selection of reputable builders with experience in the Moorabbin/Bayside area, whether for custom homes or dual-occupancy projects.
- Construction: Full construction of the new dwelling(s), from slab pour to final fit-out.
- Subdivision (for dual-occ): If pursuing the dual-occupancy option, the process of legally subdividing the lot will occur during the construction phase.
- Handover: Final inspections, receipt of the Occupancy Permit(s), and official handover of the completed property/properties.
Project Success Criteria:
- Achieving a design that maximises the site’s potential and aligns with market expectations in Moorabbin.
- Successful and timely navigation of the Kingston Council planning and building permit process.
- Delivery of a high-quality build within the established budget.
- Creation of a significant uplift in the property’s overall value and street appeal.

