Jonathon's Caulfield Townhouse Development and Family Home Renovation
The Challenge:
Jonathon contacted me for a Plan Check on his townhouse development. While the initial plans were promising, several critical details required attention to ensure the project’s success.
The Solution:
During the Plan Check, I identified four key areas for improvement:
- Skylight Positioning:
To enhance the natural light in the entrance, I adjusted the position of the skylights to create a more inviting atmosphere. - Bathroom Reconfiguration:
I reconfigured the bathroom layout to provide adequate space between the toilet and the door, improving functionality. - European Laundry Adjustment:
Although the European laundry was tucked neatly into a hallway, the dimensions did not accommodate a standard-sized washer and dryer. Recognising this issue before construction began meant that we could modify the plans to ensure everything fit perfectly. - Landscape Design Enhancement:
The original landscape design failed to consider the slope of the block, risking erosion during heavy rain. I developed a drainage design and incorporated a retaining wall into the plans to ensure Jonathon’s landscaping would be both secure and aesthetically pleasing.
Pre-Purchase Design Inspection:
Jonathon was also in the market for an older property to renovate into a family home. He asked me to conduct a Pre-Purchase Design Inspection on several properties, including a home in Elwood. After my inspection and cost estimates for renovation, Jonathon realised the Elwood property would not meet his budget due to the restrictive positioning of the fireplace, which would push his renovation costs an additional $100,000 beyond his limit.
Finding the Right Home:
We also visited a 1930s Art Deco home in Murrumbeena, which presented significant potential. I demonstrated how we could extend the house at the back and build an additional storey with no major obstructions in the way. Equipped with this knowledge, Jonathon confidently purchased the property to transform it into the large family home he envisioned.
Jonathon’s Reflection on My Services:
“Chris has a unique ability to understand both design and construction elements of a project because of his work as a designer and his extensive background in the construction industry. It’s rare; not many people have that skill set. He’s really valuable, a must-have. You can’t afford not to have Chris involved in your project.”
The Result:
By addressing the townhouse development’s plans and guiding Jonathon in his home search, I ensured that both projects would meet his expectations and budget. The modifications and insights on these projects also provided a solid foundation for Jonathon’s future renovation and development plans.
