1. Project Vision
To undertake a complete knock-down and rebuild at Sheppard Street, Moorabbin. The project aims to replace the existing dwelling on the 610 m² allotment with a premium, architecturally designed home or a high-yield dual-occupancy development. The ultimate goal is to create a landmark property that sets a new benchmark for quality in the street and capitalises on the strong demand for new, well-designed homes in this sought-after pocket of Moorabbin.
2. Site Analysis & Feasibility
This foundational phase will define the project’s potential and constraints.
- Site Assessment: A full feature and level survey is required to accurately map boundaries, topography, easements, and the location of all existing services. A geotechnical report will be commissioned to assess soil conditions and inform the structural engineering.
- Council Regulations: A thorough investigation of the Kingston Planning Scheme is essential. Key considerations for this site include:
- Zoning: The property is located in a General Residential Zone (GRZ). The specific schedule for this zone must be reviewed to determine maximum site coverage, building height, and required setbacks from all boundaries.
- Neighbourhood Character & Streetscape: The design must be sympathetic to the existing and emerging character of Sheppard Street. This involves analysing the scale, materials, and architectural styles of neighbouring properties.
- Dual-Occupancy Feasibility (STCA): With a land size of 610 m², the site holds excellent potential for a side-by-side dual-occupancy development. A feasibility study should be conducted to determine the financial viability of this option versus a single luxury home, considering market demand and potential end values.
3. Design & Development Phase
This phase will translate the chosen development strategy into a detailed architectural plan.
- Option A: Premier Single Residence
- Architectural Style: A sophisticated double-storey contemporary home with a focus on luxury finishes, expansive living spaces, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration.
- Design Brief:
- Accommodation: 4-5 large bedrooms, including a ground-floor guest suite and a luxurious master suite with a walk-in robe and a high-end ensuite.
- Living Zones: An expansive open-plan family, dining, and kitchen area as the centrepiece of the home. A separate formal lounge/sitting room, plus an upstairs retreat or rumpus room for children. A dedicated home office is essential.
- Features: A state-of-the-art kitchen with a butler’s pantry, a feature fireplace, a double garage with internal access, and a large, covered alfresco area with outdoor kitchen provisions.
- Exterior: Professionally landscaped gardens and potentially a plunge pool or spa.
- Option B: High-End Dual-Occupancy Development (STCA)
- Architectural Style: Two architecturally distinct but complementary double-storey townhouses, each with individual street appeal and private amenities.
- Design Brief (per residence):
- Accommodation: 3-4 bedrooms (including a choice of ground or first-floor master suites to appeal to different buyer demographics).
- Living Zones: Open-plan living and dining areas that flow to private, landscaped courtyards.
- Features: High-quality kitchens, designer bathrooms, single or double garages, and luxury appointments throughout to command a premium price point.
4. Permitting & Site Preparation Phase
This phase involves securing all necessary approvals to clear the site and prepare for construction.
- Town Planning: A Town Planning Permit from Kingston City Council will be required, particularly for a dual-occupancy development. This process will involve submitting a comprehensive application with all architectural drawings and supporting reports.
- Building Permit: Following the issuance of a planning permit, detailed construction documentation will be submitted to a private building surveyor to obtain a Building Permit.
- Demolition:
- Obtain all necessary demolition permits and arrange for the safe disconnection and abolishment of all site services.
- Complete the full demolition of the existing structure and removal of all debris.
- Clear and prepare the site for the new build, including any necessary excavation or earthworks.
5. Construction & Delivery Phase
The final phase where the architectural vision becomes a reality.
- Builder Selection: Conduct a tender process with a curated list of builders known for high-quality custom builds or dual-occupancy projects in the Kingston area.
- Construction: Full construction of the new dwelling(s) according to the endorsed plans and engineering specifications.
- Subdivision: For the dual-occupancy option, the legal process of subdividing the property into two separate titles will run in parallel with the construction.
- Handover: Final site clean, practical completion inspections, receipt of the Occupancy Permit(s), and official handover of the completed property/properties.
Project Success Criteria:
- Achieving a final product that exemplifies superior design and construction quality.
- Maximising the financial return on the investment, whether through the sale of a single luxury home or two premium townhouses.
- Efficiently navigating the Kingston Council approvals process.
- Delivering a property that significantly elevates the streetscape of Sheppard Street.