Designing a custom home is one of the most exciting — and challenging — parts of the building journey. It’s where ideas take shape, where lifestyle meets layout, and where your vision becomes a real, liveable space.
In a premium market like Bayside, where block sizes, orientations and local overlays vary widely, a thoughtful design is the key to a smooth, seamless build. Below are some expert tips to help you get it right from the outset.
1. Design for Your Block, Not Just Your Wishlist
It’s easy to get carried away with Pinterest boards and floorplan fantasies — but great custom design starts with your block.
- Maximise northern light wherever possible
- Consider how views, privacy, and wind directions affect the layout
- Work around existing trees or overlays early
Custom design isn’t about squeezing a display home onto your lot. It’s about shaping the home to suit the land — not the other way around.
2. Keep the Floorplan Cohesive, Not Complex
A common pitfall in custom builds is overcomplication. More rooms, more zones, more walls — but not necessarily more comfort.
Instead, focus on:
- Flow between spaces (especially kitchen, dining and outdoor areas)
- Line of sight for supervising kids or entertaining
- Room proportions that feel balanced and open
- Minimising wasted hallway or non-functional areas
Designing for how you live — now and into the future — leads to smarter, more satisfying outcomes.
3. Understand Bayside’s Planning Expectations Early
Many areas in Bayside fall under Neighbourhood Character Overlays or have heritage considerations. Even if your home won’t require formal planning permission, local guidelines can influence design choices.
Engage a designer or builder who understands:
- Bayside’s preferred façade styles and setbacks
- How to work within coastal or heritage contexts
- What’s likely to trigger permit delays (like balconies, height, or overshadowing)
Good design isn’t just creative — it’s compliant, too.
4. Don’t Design Without a Budget in Mind
It’s surprisingly easy to design something beautiful on paper that costs far more than expected to build. To avoid budget blowouts:
- Involve your builder early in the design process
- Be realistic about inclusions and material choices
- Get advice on what design features add cost without adding real value
Bringing the builder and designer together from the start helps align expectations, streamline decisions, and avoid costly redraws.
5. Future-Proof Where You Can
Your needs may change — and your home should be able to adapt.
Think about:
- Home offices and remote work zones
- Flexible spaces that can become a nursery, gym or retreat
- Single-level layouts for long-term accessibility
- Energy efficiency that lowers long-term costs
Smart design today means fewer compromises tomorrow.
Final Thoughts
A seamless build starts with a smart design — one that balances your vision with the realities of your site, lifestyle, and budget.
At Bray Constructions, we help Bayside homeowners turn ideas into beautifully built homes, guiding you from early planning through to final handover.
If you’re ready to start designing with confidence, we’re ready to help.
Let’s talk →
