Building Designer on the South Coast
Your local building design experts across the NSW South Coast.
Who We Are
Smarter Developments On The South Coast
Gracia Building Design has been helping homeowners, investors and first-time developers across the NSW South Coast make confident property decisions since 2023. Based in Nowra and serving communities from Wollongong to Batemans Bay, we've built a reputation for practical, honest guidance before clients commit to anything.
Led by Maria Laverde, an accredited member of the Building Designers Association of Australia with a background spanning architecture, civil engineering, interior design and design compliance, our practice brings expertise that goes well beyond drawing plans. Our clients aren't experienced developers, they're families, investors and property owners who want to understand what's possible first.
We're experienced across DA and CDC approval pathways with all five South Coast councils. Call us on (02) 4415 9445 or email info@graciabuildingdesign.com to start the conversation.
Book a consultation
Contact Us
Thank you for contacting Gracia Building Design.
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Oops, there was an error sending your message.
Please try again later.
What we do
Our Drafting & Design Services
Duplex Design
Duplex design on the South Coast requires local planning knowledge and site-specific thinking. We help you understand what's achievable on your block before design begins.
Multi-Dwellings
Multi-dwelling developments across the South Coast can unlock significant value from a well-located site. We assess feasibility, design options and approval pathways before you commit to anything.
Dual Occupancy
Dual occupancy is one of the most versatile development options available to South Coast property owners. We tailor every design to your goals, block and planning controls.
Feasibility Studies
No two South Coast sites are the same. Our feasibility assessments give property owners and investors a clear picture of development potential before any significant decisions are made.
DA & CDC Approval
Choosing the right
DA or CDC approval pathway on the South Coast can affect your timeline, budget and design flexibility. We identify the most appropriate route from the very beginning.
What We Can Do For You
Practical Guidance for Every Stage
From Wollongong to Batemans Bay, the NSW South Coast offers diverse residential development opportunities and navigating them successfully requires someone who knows the region from the inside. At Gracia Building Design, our services are built around South Coast property owners and investors who want to make the most of their land without unnecessary risk or complexity.
We offer feasibility assessments, duplex design, dual occupancy, multi-dwellings, terraces and DA and CDC approval services, each delivered with the same commitment to clarity and personalised attention. The South Coast presents unique planning conditions, varying council jurisdictions, coastal overlays and topography that changes significantly from suburb to suburb and our team knows how to work within them.
Our feasibility assessments are particularly popular with clients in the early stages of their thinking. Whatever stage you're at, reach out today and let's talk about what your South Coast property could do for you.
Need Help?
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas on the NSW South Coast does Gracia Building Design service?
Gracia Building Design services communities across the entire NSW South Coast, from Wollongong and the Illawarra through to the Shoalhaven and Eurobodalla regions. This includes Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Nowra, Berry, Vincentia, Ulladulla, Batemans Bay, Moruya and Narooma, among others. If you're unsure whether your area is covered, get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
Do I need a building designer or an architect for a duplex on the South Coast?
For most duplex, dual occupancy and multi-dwelling projects on the South Coast, a building designer is well-equipped to take your project from feasibility through to approved documentation. Building designers are trained in residential design, planning controls and council approval pathways, and are often a more cost-effective option than an architect for small to medium-scale residential developments. The most important thing is choosing someone with genuine local experience.
How do I know if my South Coast property is suitable for development?
The most reliable way to find out is through a feasibility assessment. A building designer with local knowledge can review your site's zoning, dimensions, planning controls and physical characteristics to give you an honest picture of what may be achievable. Many property owners are surprised to discover their block has more potential than they realised — or that an idea they'd been pursuing isn't actually viable, saving them significant time and money.


