Custom Home & Building Designers Newcastle

“I have used Sorensen Design for multiple projects in the Port Stephens area. From the inception of a project through to completion, Sorensen provides an incredible service. The entire team is extremely knowledgeable and ultra-professional. Thank you to Adrian, Madison, Scott and Mark for ensuring my projects become a reality.”

— Daniel C.

“I would highly recommend the team at Sorensen Design. Adrian and Scott were sensitive to the heritage requirements of this property and were a pleasure to work with. The brief was far from straightforward but their professionalism, expertise and hard work ensured it ran smoothly. We couldn't be happier with their design for the original building as well as the contrasting modern addition. Thank you!”

— Jane W.

• What is the process of building with Sorensen Design?

  It all starts with a simple phone consultation with a member of our building design team. After submitting a quote or contact request online, our team will be in touch to discuss your building requirements and design aspirations, whether you’re looking to renovate or extend, build a brand new home or kick off a commercial building project.

  The next step is to book a site inspection before drawing up the designs. We will complete an in-depth analysis of the block including the slope, the soil type, the width and length of the block and any environmental factors that may hinder the project. We do this to determine what is achievable on the block.

  If you would like us to complete a renovation or extension project, we will also examine the structural integrity and history of the existing building. We offer the utmost respect and care for heritage-listed buildings to ensure we preserve the historical and cultural value of the property.

  Then it’s on to drawing up the designs and gaining council approval for construction to begin! We will communicate with all other parties (e.g. building certifiers, council representatives) on your behalf. You can sit back and relax as your home building aspirations come to life.
  
  

• What awards has Sorensen Design won?

  We have won a vast number of awards for our house designs in Newcastle! We have been recognised on a number of occasions by prestigious organisations like the Building Designers Association of Australia and the Housing Industry Association.

  • BDA 2008 Commendation Award (Residential Alterations & Additions over $200,000)
  • BDA 2009 Commendation Award (Residential Alterations & Additions over $200,000 / Residential Interiors)
  • BDA 2010 Commendation Award (Residential interiors / Bathrooms)
  • The 2010 and 2011 HIA Award winner for Residential Building Designer of the Year
  • The 2011 ABODE House of the Year Awards
  • BDA 2011 Design Awards Winner (Bathrooms / Kitchens)
  • BDA 2013 Commendation Awards (New Single Residential Buildings up to $2000m2)
  • BDA 2015 Design Award Winner (Dual Occupancy)
  • BDAA 2019 National Design Award Winner (New residential buildings over 450m2 and under $2,500/m2)
  • BDAA 2021 National Design Award Finalist (New residential buildings over $500,000 up to $750,000)
• What kind of services do you offer in Newcastle?

  We offer a wide range of services in Newcastle including building design, new house plans, duplex designs, childcare centre design, town planning, renovations and granny flat designs. These services are available in Newcastle, Maitland, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, the Central Coast and the Hunter Valley.
  

• Can I see examples of your previous work in Newcastle?

  Yes! We’re proud of our completed commercial projects and new home designs in Newcastle, which is why we share our projects online. From new dwellings to commercial and industrial projects, additions and alterations, and more, we’ve completed hundreds of projects throughout Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, the Central Coast and the Hunter Region!
  

• How will the design plans be delivered?

  Before we start seeking council approvals and commencing the building process, we will create a 3D render of the proposed home design, extension or renovation. We will present this to you in person and provide you with a copy for consideration. From here, we will make adjustments and changes to the design based on your personal preferences and requirements.

  We will never start building without your express consent.

  We use licensed copies of Archicad software so we can produce high-resolution 3D images of the proposed project. You will be impressed with the level of detail we deliver to ensure you are 100% satisfied with the design.
  

• Do I need to get council approval before contacting Sorensen Design?

  No. At Sorensen Design, we take care of all council approvals and communication with third parties. We are very familiar with council requirements, lodging development applications (DAs) and engaging subcontractors and consultants to work on your project (e.g. structural engineers and surveyors).
  

• Do you do small renovations?

  Yes. We take on projects both big and small, whether they’re residential, commercial or industrial. We can provide drafting services for small deck extensions, large prestigious homes, units, duplexes or commercial projects. Our team will expertly handle the entire planning and design process on your behalf.

• Is Sorensen Design qualified?

  Absolutely. All of our building and design experts are qualified and experienced in residential, commercial, industrial and town planning projects. In 2021, we were approved as an Accredited Open Building Designer by the Building Designers Association of Australia (BDAA). This is the highest level of qualifying accreditation and approves our firm to practice:

  The design and documentation of all Classes and Types of buildings as defined by the National Construction Code series/Building Code of Australia classifications. Additionally, low rise and medium-rise constructions.

  We are also approved by the NSW Department of Family and Community Services and accredited to design child care facilities and services.

• What is the estimated timeframe for my project?

  It depends on the project type, the scale and the complexity of the project. No two projects are ever the same — however, we will be able to provide a timeframe after we have completed a site inspection, completed the design and booked various subcontractors and consultants to complete the build. We will keep your schedule in mind throughout the process without compromising on quality.
  

• How disruptive will construction be?

  Again, it depends on the type of project at hand. For example, if you’re looking to complete a large-scale renovation or extension, you might choose to move out while construction is underway. Living in the middle of a building site is not for the faint of heart!

• Can I fit my desired design within my budget?

  It’s not uncommon for our design aspirations to venture a little over our price range, which is why communication is key when it comes to planning. During our initial consultation, we will discuss your design requirements, what “the dream” is and what kind of budget we have to work with. After the site inspection, we will be able to provide a realistic estimate of costs to complete the project.

  If the estimate is over your preferred budget, our team will provide solutions and recommendations to make sure you receive the result you desire.
  

• Can you complete heritage projects?

  Absolutely. We have completed various heritage projects in the past where alterations and approvals were complex — however, we were always able to find a solution that preserved the historical value of the property.
  

• What do I need to tell your building designers?

  During our initial consultation, we want to know what your goals are. We want to hear about your “must-have” ticket items, your budget and what kind of services you think you’ll need. If possible, bring along photos, drawings and other forms of inspiration for the project — what have you seen that you’ve liked? This will help us draft designs for your approval.