Knockdown rebuild or renovate? How to decide

You love the street. You love the views. You don't love the house. So do you renovate what's there or start again? We build both, so we have no reason to push you either way. Here are the questions we walk clients through.

1. How much of the house are you keeping?

If the plan involves moving most walls, replacing the roof and redoing every wet area, you're close to a new build already. At that point a knockdown often gives you more for similar money.

2. What condition is the structure in?

Footings, framing, roof and services all matter. Old wiring, tired plumbing and movement cracks add up quickly in a renovation. A good builder will tell you honestly what's behind the plaster.

3. What does the block allow?

Planning controls, setbacks, heritage and bushfire rules can make a rebuild easier or harder. Sometimes an existing home has "existing use" advantages you'd lose by knocking it down.

4. Do you want to live there during the work?

Some alterations and additions let you stay on site for part of the build. A knockdown means moving out for the duration.

5. What will the finished home be worth to you?

A new home is built to today's standards for energy, comfort and layout. A great renovation can keep the character you love. Neither is wrong. It's about what you want to live in for the next 20 years.

Two ways to the same goal

Our Balgowlah and Newport projects were knockdown rebuilds. Our Clontarf and Beacon Hill projects transformed existing homes through alterations and additions.

Not sure which way to go? Talk to us. We'll walk the site with you and give you a straight answer.