Building Design Blog

Name: Design Science
Price range: $$

Expert guides on building design, renovation planning, construction costs and council approvals on the Gold Coast. Written by David Steadman — licensed builder and building designer with over 20 years of hands-on experience. Whether you’re planning a custom home, renovating an existing property, or navigating council approvals, our articles give you the practical knowledge you need before starting your project.

All

Costs & Budgets

Council & Approvals

Custom Home Design

Design Inspiration

Industry Guides

Renovations

Sustainable Design

Earthworks on a constrained Gold Coast residential site

Building on a Difficult Gold Coast Block: What Must Be Resolved Before Design

A difficult block can still support an excellent home, but its constraints must shape the design from the beginning. Here is what owners should establish before concept plans are locked.

Building plans and design materials laid out for review

Builder-Ready Documentation: Why Serious Projects Need Detailed Plans Before Pricing

Serious projects need detailed, builder-ready documentation before builders can price with confidence. Learn why clear plans matter before construction decisions are made.

Is My Budget Realistic for a Custom Home on the Gold Coast?

Before you commit to a custom home design, check whether your budget, site conditions and documentation level are aligned. This guide explains what a realistic Gold Coast custom home budget…

3D architectural design software displaying residential building plans

Why Detailed Building Design Documentation Matters Before You Ask Builders to Quote

Builders price what they can see. If a drawing set does not clearly show a detail, the builder has three […]

How Much Does a Granny Flat Cost on the Gold Coast? (2026)

Real Gold Coast granny flat costs for 2026 — turnkey totals, cost by size, council and approval fees, and why cheap advertised prices mislead. Design fees from $3,000.

Can You Build a Duplex or Dual Living on Your Gold Coast Block? Rules, Costs & Feasibility (2026)

Can your Gold Coast block support a duplex or dual living? A designer-builder walks through zoning, minimum lot sizes, overlays and costs — feasibility first.

Modern two-storey home on the Gold Coast after a second-storey addition

Second-Storey Addition vs Moving: Is Building Up Worth It on the Gold Coast?

Add a second storey or sell up and move? The renovate-or-relocate decision with real Gold Coast numbers: transaction costs, build costs and a four-question framework.

Granny Flat Rental Income on the Gold Coast: Do the Numbers Stack Up in 2026?

What a Gold Coast granny flat really rents for in 2026, what it costs to build, and how to run the numbers for your own block — an honest look…

What Can You Actually Build on Your Block on the Gold Coast?

Whether you’re thinking about a duplex, a granny flat, a second storey or a major renovation, the first question isn’t […]

Your project is in safe hands

Licensed Builder

QBCC 15277902

Master Builders QLD

HIA Member

Fully insured • Personalised consultation • Transparent pricing

Design Fees from $3,000

Transparent pricing with no hidden costs. 3D modelling and construction documentation are provided as set out in your agreed design scope. A complete bill of quantities can be provided at additional cost.

Request a Consultation