General

Let’s dispel a myth right at the top: building green does not mean compromising on style or breaking the bank. As home builders in South East Melbourne, we’ve seen the rise in demand for sustainable home extensions and know that they can blend with existing structures while incorporating cutting-edge materials and technologies that significantly reduce environmental impact.

The benefits go way beyond just feeling good about your choices. A green extension can slash your energy bills, improve your air quality, and boost your property value. Plus, with increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, these adaptable spaces help keep your home comfortable year-round without cranking up the AC or heater.

What’s driving this shift?

We definitely know there is growing climate awareness in Melbourne, but it’s also practical economics. Energy costs continue to climb, making efficiency investments smarter than ever. Meanwhile, innovations in sustainable building materials have made eco-friendly options more accessible and affordable.

Everything from a modest bump-out to a full-scale addition offers benefits in this space. Thinking green from the get-go will save you headaches down the road, and things like passive solar design and reclaimed materials make creating a sustainable extension more diverse and exciting than ever before.

Getting serious about every drop

Green home building has changed how we approach the term “water-saving.” It used to mean weak showers and constantly jiggling toilet handles, but today, water-efficient fixtures deliver performance while slashing consumption.

How we think about water as a resource is the big change. We now know it can be managed in cycles rather than used once and discarded. Rainwater collection systems have evolved from basic barrels to sophisticated setups that filter and redistribute water throughout your extension. Some particularly clever designs integrate collection systems directly into architectural features, like decorative wall cisterns that double as thermal mass.

For your extension’s bathroom, consider dual-flush toilets and sensor-activated faucets that prevent waste without sacrificing convenience. Permeable paving around your new extension allows rainwater to replenish groundwater instead of becoming runoff. The smartest extensions now incorporate greywater systems that capture water from showers and sinks for toilet flushing or garden irrigation. It’s a closed-loop approach that makes perfect sense once you see it in action.

Sustainable kitchen design in your green extension

Kitchens devour energy like no other room. Eco-friendly extensions that reimagine this space can score some massive sustainability wins without sacrificing the joy of cooking. Gone is the gas range that used to heat the entire room in summer; in its place, we put a sleek induction cooktop that boils water in half the time while using a fraction of the energy.

The modern sustainable kitchen isn’t just about star-rated appliances, though they’re certainly part of the equation. It’s about thoughtful design that works with natural patterns. Orient your extension to capitalise on morning light, reducing dependence on artificial illumination. Consider higher ceilings with clerestory windows that flood the space with daylight while venting heat naturally.

Countertop choices matter tremendously. Forget imported marble that’s travelled halfway around the world – today’s recycled glass surfaces offer stunning visual appeal with minimal environmental impact. Salvaged wood shelving brings warmth while giving new life to old materials. Smart layout design minimises wasted steps (and energy) during meal prep. The truly innovative kitchens integrate food production right into the space – herb walls, sprouting stations, and even small aquaponic systems that provide fresh greens year-round.

Pro tip: Don’t overlook the waste stream – built-in composting and intuitive recycling stations turn “trash” into resources.

Choosing environmentally friendly materials

The materials you select for your extension aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re perhaps your biggest opportunity to reduce environmental impact. In 2025, the options have never been more exciting or accessible, offering a premium look with a carbon footprint about half that of conventional construction.

Sustainable home additions like bamboo flooring have come into their own, offering hardwood-like durability while being harvested from plants that regenerate in just 3-5 years rather than decades. What’s changed recently is the quality of finishes—today’s bamboo floors can withstand heavy traffic while maintaining their beauty for decades.

Engineered wood products made from fast-growing species and agricultural waste are revolutionising construction for structural elements. These materials often outperform traditional lumber in strength tests while dramatically reducing resource consumption.

Insulation also deserves special attention since it affects your extension’s energy performance for its entire lifespan. Newer options like mushroom-based insulation and recycled denim batting offer impressive R-values without the harmful chemicals in many conventional products.

The most sustainable approach often involves looking locally. Materials sourced within 500 miles of your home slash transportation emissions. Even better, reclaimed materials from local demolitions bring character and history while diverting waste from landfills. Don’t overlook the finishing touches as well—low-VOC paints and natural oil finishes protect your family’s health while reducing chemical pollution. Some homeowners are even exploring earth plasters and clay finishes that naturally regulate humidity and improve indoor air quality.

The finest energy-efficient home extensions in Melbourne

At Eltcon, we keep abreast of 2025 home trends to offer our clients the latest ideas and opportunities for their extensions. We’ve reimagined the construction process from the ground up to create extensions that are as kind to the planet as they are beautiful to live in.

Our green building ethos is embedded in everything we do, and to prove this, our projects begin with an environmental assessment that identifies opportunities to minimise impact. We evaluate your site’s natural advantages, positioning extensions to maximise your solar gain in winter while providing natural shading during summer months.

Our team includes certified green building specialists who stay ahead of emerging technologies and materials. This expertise allows us to suggest innovative solutions that often cost the same as conventional methods but deliver significantly better environmental outcomes. We’ve also developed relationships with local suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability, ensuring materials travel minimal distances and support regional economies. Our waste management protocols divert over 85% of construction debris from landfills through careful sorting and recycling.

Each Eltcon project includes a comprehensive energy model that predicts performance and identifies optimisation opportunities before construction begins. This data-driven approach ensures your extension won’t just look good—it’ll function efficiently for a very long time.

It’s 2025. You can walk into your kitchen on a chilly morning to find your coffee already brewing, the temperature perfectly adjusted, and your favourite morning playlist softly playing – all before you’ve even reached for your phone.

As experienced home builders in South East Melbourne, we know that integrating smart features into your custom build makes all of this possible. However, it isn’t something you want to figure out after the fact. The key is planning these elements from the ground up, during the initial design phase. Think of it like your home’s nervous system – you want those neural pathways (or in this case, wiring and connectivity infrastructure) built into the very bones of your house.

Modern smart home technology blends into your daily routine

From energy-efficient climate control systems that learn your preferences to automated lighting that will adjust based on natural sunlight, smart home features are practical solutions that can improve your quality of life while potentially saving you money on utility bills.

There are most certainly some essential elements you should consider when planning your custom build. Understanding the home automation basics will help you make informed decisions in the early stages of your build.

Smart home heating and cooling

Maintaining the perfect indoor climate is easy with smart heating and cooling systems that do away with clunky thermostats or coming home to a stuffy house – today’s home automation systems bring intelligence and precision to temperature control.

At the heart of any smart climate system is the learning thermostat. These clever devices study your preferences and routines. They notice when you typically wake up, when you head to work, and even which rooms you use most frequently. After a few weeks, they’ll automatically adjust to keep you comfortable while minimising energy waste. 

When you combine smart thermostats with zoned heating and cooling using intelligent vents and sensors, you can maintain different temperatures in different rooms. Your bedroom can be cooled for sleeping while the living room stays cosy for evening relaxation. Some systems even track humidity levels and air quality, automatically adjusting to maintain optimal conditions.

All of this can be controlled from your phone, whether you’re lounging on the couch or halfway around the world. Plus, detailed energy reports help you understand exactly how your system is performing, making it easier to balance comfort with efficiency.

Smart kitchens blend convenience with practical functionality

Custom home technology can transform how we cook, store food, and interact with our appliances. You can start your morning coffee from bed, or get a notification that you’re running low on juice while you’re at the grocery store. Modern smart refrigerators can do this with built-in cameras that let you peek inside remotely and AI systems that track your inventory and even suggest recipes based on what you have on hand.

Connected cooking appliances have come a long way, too. Smart ovens can be preheated from your phone, while intelligent cooktops monitor your food’s temperature and timing to prevent burning. Some even integrate with recipe apps, walking you through each step of meal preparation and automatically adjusting cooking settings for perfect results every time.

Even cleanup has gotten smarter. Today’s dishwashers can send alerts when they’re finished, diagnose their maintenance needs, and even download new cleaning cycles optimised for different loads. With voice-activated faucets and garbage disposals, you can keep your hands free when they’re messy from cooking.

Home security and access control

Today’s modern home features smart locks that offer multiple ways to enter your home securely. You might use your smartphone as a key, tap in a code on a sleek keypad, or even use your fingerprint. You can give temporary access to visitors, housekeepers, or delivery people with time-limited digital keys that automatically expire when you choose.

Modern smart locks also offer integration with other home systems. They can work with your security cameras to show you who’s at the door, trigger your lights to turn on when you unlock the door at night or alert you if someone tries to tamper with the lock. Some models even keep a detailed log of every entry and exit, so you always know who’s been coming and going. Don’t worry – you can still use a traditional key if you want to, but you’ve got all these extra features at your fingertips when you need them.

Creating the perfect ambience while maximising energy efficiency

Smart lighting systems have evolved to become one of the most versatile and user-friendly aspects of home automation. Modern smart bulbs can transform any room with millions of colour options and brightness levels, all controllable from your phone or voice commands. Want your lights to gradually brighten in the morning to help you wake up naturally? Or slowly dim in the evening to help you wind down? That’s just the beginning of what’s possible. 

The real power comes from automation and scheduling. Automatically adjust your lighting based on the time of day, your location, or even what you’re doing – dimming when you start a movie, brightening when you’re reading, or creating the perfect atmosphere for entertaining. Plus, with motion sensors and geofencing capabilities, your lights can automatically turn off in empty rooms or welcome you home by illuminating your path from the front door.

Why choose Eltcon for your smart home build?

When creating a home that integrates cutting-edge technology with exceptional design, you need a builder who understands craftsmanship and innovation. Our dedicated team approaches each custom build with a blend of architectural expertise and smart home knowledge, ensuring your vision comes to life exactly as you imagined.

We’ve built our reputation on attention to detail, transparent communication, and staying ahead of the technology curve. We work closely with you to integrate the perfect mix of smart features that will transform your house into an intelligent, responsive home that anticipates your needs.

As an experienced custom home builders in eastern Melbourne, we talk with architects, builders, and homeowners across the country all of the time, and there’s this undeniable factor affecting new custom-built home design. We’re not just seeing the usual lip service to green building anymore. Innovative building technologies are becoming more accessible. Moreover, energy costs are making everyone think twice about efficiency. As a result, people are tired of cookie-cutter homes that drain their wallets and the planet’s resources.

The definition of a “dream home” has also shifted. Remember when luxury meant massive square footage and marble everything? Now, the real status symbol is a home that works in harmony with its environment—houses that generate their own power, use materials that sequester carbon and are designed to last for generations. We’ve collectively realised that showing up for our planet while creating spaces that genuinely enhance our lives is the best move.

Smart home technology is getting smarter

Gone are the days when “smart home” meant shouting at your speaker to play music or set a timer. The evolution we’re seeing in 2025 is nothing short of mind-bending. Today’s sustainable custom homes are becoming sophisticated ecosystems that think alongside their inhabitants.

The latest AI-powered home management systems are doing something remarkable. They’re learning your family’s patterns and quietly optimising everything from room temperatures to natural light exposure. It’s like having a highly efficient personal assistant who never sleeps and is obsessed with saving energy!

What’s truly revolutionary is how these systems now talk to each other. Solar panel systems can communicate with your appliances to maximise energy usage during peak production hours. Also, smart windows can automatically adjust their tint based on the sun’s position and your preferred indoor temperature. Garden irrigation system checks local weather forecasts and soil moisture levels before watering your vegetables.

The new generation of home energy management systems gives you beautiful, intuitive visualisations of your home’s performance. You can watch your carbon footprint shrink in real time, and the gamification elements make it oddly addictive. High-end custom homes now incorporate systems that monitor air quality, humidity, and even noise pollution, automatically adjusting ventilation and filtering systems to maintain optimal living conditions.

Sustainable Building Options for 2025

When in the planning stages of a new build or considering ways to greenify your existing space, these sustainable building options are worth your consideration:

Natural fibres

Locally sourced materials like timber, bamboo, rammed earth, and natural stone lower your home’s environmental impact and add a touch of earthy elegance. These materials are often non-toxic and breathable, helping to create healthier indoor environments.

For example, hemp-based insulation provides thermal regulation without the harmful chemicals found in synthetic alternatives. Reclaimed wood and recycled metals are increasingly popular for their ability to give new life to old resources while embracing a circular economy approach.

Green walls and roofs

Green walls and roofs are multitaskers. These plant-covered surfaces offer natural insulation, reducing energy use by keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Plus, they absorb rainfall, minimising the risk of stormwater runoff and leaks.

Green roofs come in a variety of forms. Extensive green roofs are shallow and low-maintenance, featuring hardy plants like mosses and sedums. Intensive roofs, on the other hand, can support deeper soil and a broader range of plants, from flowers and shrubs to small trees. Semi-intensive roofs strike a balance between the two, offering moderate maintenance needs and diverse greenery.

Beyond insulation, these features also improve air quality by filtering out pollutants, supporting local wildlife like birds and pollinators, and making a striking architectural statement that blends seamlessly with nature.

Prefabrication and modular construction

You can streamline the building process without compromising sustainability with prefabrication and modular construction. Prefabricated elements like wall panels and roof trusses are manufactured in controlled environments, ensuring precision, reducing waste, and speeding up on-site assembly.

Modular construction takes things a step further. Entire sections of a home are built off-site, then transported and pieced together at the final location. These homes are efficient, durable, energy-efficient, and designed with sustainability in mind. They often have high-performance insulation, advanced windows, and optimised heating, cooling, and lighting systems, all built into the modules before they even leave the factory.

Other sustainable building trends to consider

As the trusted home builders in Eastern Melbourne, we have observed the following trends in home building: 

We’re seeing a fundamental shift in how homes are designed, built, and lived in, which we can’t ignore.  There’s this incredible movement toward “living” building materials, and walls that are working to clean your air and regulate humidity. We’re seeing the emergence of bio-based materials like mycelium insulation and self-healing concrete that can repair its own cracks. These revolutionary materials are making homes more durable and healthier to live in.

The concept of “passive house” design has evolved into homes that work with nature, not against it. Strategically, windows can maximize light and heat in winter, and provide summer shade; underground systems use the earth’s temperature for heating and cooling.. The future is truly now!

Work with future-forward custom home builders today

At Eltcon, we are excellent with custom-built homes, with innovation, and client satisfaction in mind.  But we also want you to enjoy a modern and sustainable living space. With each project, we work with you to create your dream home. And, we can integrate sustainable building options into your design.

Knowledge is empowerment, and our team of custom home builders provide in-depth education at every stage of the project. We prioritise keeping you informed, but also apply our skills and experience to ensure every element of your build is as good as it could, and should be. Let’s get to work!

If you want to extend your home, the big question is which way? There are options, and each one brings its own outcomes and considerations. A lot of it has to do with the current shape and size of your property. Maybe you’ve got a sprawling backyard begging for a rear extension or a bit of unused space on the side of the house that could become the home office of your dreams.

The decision, however, isn’t just about square meters—it’s also about lifestyle. As expert home extension builders in eastern Melbourne, we always start by understanding if our clients are looking for seamless indoor-outdoor flow, chasing that extra bedroom for guests, or simply future-proofing property value. Then, it’s all about planning permissions, construction timelines, and the all-important question, “How will this impact my day-to-day life?”

Choosing the type of home extension that best matches your needs

Each extension type has its advantages and is suited to different layouts and goals. As home builders in  Eastern Melbourne, we always consider the main types of home extensions to help clients decide which one might be right:

• Rear Home Extensions

A rear extension is one of the most popular choices for adding space to a home. Located at the back of the house, this type of extension typically involves knocking down a rear wall and building into your backyard or patio. It’s perfect for creating open-plan living areas or expanding your kitchen and dining spaces.

• Second-Storey Home Extensions

When you need more space but don’t want to sacrifice your outdoor area, building up might be your best bet. Second-storey extensions add a new level to your home and are ideal for smaller blocks where expanding outward isn’t practical.

• Side Home Extensions

Got a little-used pathway or alley running alongside your house? A side extension can transform that unused space into something functional. Side extensions are a clever way to make the most of narrow plots or properties with limited backyard space.

• Wrap-Around Home Extensions

Combining features of rear and side extensions, a wrap-around extension maximises your space by creating an L-shaped addition. This type of extension can open up your floor plan and create spacious, light-filled areas.

Deciding between home extension options

Each option mentioned above has its advantages and challenges that can significantly influence your budget, design preferences, and long-term plans. Here are the key factors to consider:

• Cost

When it comes to cost per square metre, single-storey extensions are generally the more budget-friendly option. They don’t require additional structural reinforcements, staircases, or complex construction techniques. Double-storey extensions often come with a higher price tag due to the need for extra materials (like reinforced foundations and roofing) and specialised labour. However, building up can be a smarter choice (or the only viable option) if you’re working with a smaller block and want to maximise your land use.

• Design and layout

Single-storey extensions offer greater design flexibility. You can play around with open-plan layouts, higher ceilings, and a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Double-storey extensions, including stairs and structural considerations, can restrict room shapes and ceiling heights, especially on the upper level.

• Construction timeline

If speed is a priority, a single-storey extension will generally win. It’s faster and less disruptive to build, as it involves fewer structural complexities. A double-storey extension, while rewarding in the end, usually takes longer due to additional engineering and construction requirements.

• Planning approval

Navigating council regulations can be another deciding factor. Single-storey extensions often get approval easier, especially if they stay within zoning and height restrictions. Double-storey extensions, however, may face stricter criteria, particularly regarding privacy and overshadowing impacts on neighbours.

• Future expansion

Thinking long-term? Single-storey extensions leave room for potential upward growth later, a handy option if your needs evolve. While great for adding space now, a double-storey extension doesn’t leave much room for future vertical expansion.

Important note: While we recommend taking all of these points into consideration, sometimes the choice is out of your hands due to size/shape restraints. It’s always important to chat with an expert as your first step to get a clear understanding of what is and isn’t possible.

Choosing the right home extension

Aligning your budget, goals, and property’s potential is the key to making the right decision. With the right home builders, Melbourne property owners can identify what they hope to achieve with the extra space. Once you’ve defined your objectives, you and your builder can establish a realistic budget to guide your decision.

For example, our experienced builders assess your property’s layout, planning regulations, and structural limitations. If space is tight and you can’t expand outwards, we would likely recommend a second-storey extension. On the other hand, if your budget is limited and you’re after a quick upgrade, a single-storey extension could tick all the boxes. Our experts can provide valuable insights, including what’s feasible under local council regulations and how to maximise value for your investment to help you choose the perfect extension for your home.

Work with the custom home builders you can trust

Eltcon excels at crafting seamless home extensions that perfectly complement your existing property. Our extensive expertise lies in harmoniously integrating style and functionality, ensuring your new space perfectly suits your evolving needs.

We foster close partnerships with architects, guaranteeing that each extension is structurally sound, aesthetically pleasing, and architecturally cohesive with your home. Plus, our in-house carpentry team is vital in delivering exceptional quality.

We ensure a superior finish by maintaining direct control over the carpentry work. This commitment to in-house craftsmanship sets us apart and provides you with unparalleled peace of mind and a truly bespoke extension. If you are ready to extend your space, chat with an expert at Eltcon on how best to do it today.

Finding a new home that meets every need and checks every box is tough. Plus, moving is a huge hassle! A home extension solves these problems. As home extension builders in Eastern Melbourne, we know that an extension is like giving your home a second life. You can add square footage where you need it most while boosting functionality and comfort without the stress of relocating. A well-planned extension means more room and adds to your home’s value, making it a sound investment for the future. 

Especially in Melbourne’s fast-paced housing market, staying put and building up (or out) can be a win-win. A bigger kitchen, a second living room, a guest suite; a home extension can transform your space to meet your family’s needs, now and for years to come.

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Staying put and expanding your space

Moving is expensive and time-consuming. There are real estate agent fees, stamp duty, and the cost of actually moving your belongings, relocating can really add up. A home extension, on the other hand, can give you the additional space you need without the hassle of moving.

Plus, you get to stay in your current neighbourhood, keeping your connections to local schools, shops, and neighbours. Before starting, however, we must refer to the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) to understand Melbourne’s permits and building requirements.

Melbourne’s older homes may lack the open layouts and specialised spaces that are popular today. Adding an extension lets you reimagine your home’s layout, unlike buying a new home where you may have to compromise on certain features. You can choose a refreshed layout, materials, and design that reflect your style, needs, and lifestyle. Whether adding eco-friendly materials or opting for a unique home extension, you can shape your home to reflect you.

Which spaces best serve your family’s needs now and in the future?

In our experience as home extension builders in Melbourne, these are some of the top spaces that can make your home more functional, comfortable, and appealing.

Extra bedroom

An additional bedroom can make a huge difference, especially if your kids are sharing a room or if you’re planning to expand your family. You can even reclaim a smaller bedroom for a home office or guest room and create a spacious new master suite for yourself.

Bathroom or ensuite

Adding a bathroom can transform daily routines for the whole family. Extending an existing bathroom for more room (perhaps for that luxurious bathtub or double vanity you’ve dreamed of.) or adding an ensuite to the master bedroom can provide much-needed privacy. An extra bathroom makes busy mornings much easier for everyone to get ready without the usual scramble.

Open-plan living space

Open-plan living is perfect for creating a light, airy, and spacious feel in your home. If your current living room and kitchen are separated by walls, knocking them down can provide a modern, expansive space. A space that could be great for family time and entertaining. And if you have a backyard, opening up the living area to connect seamlessly with the outdoors can create a fantastic indoor-outdoor flow. This is ideal for social gatherings, kids’ play, or relaxing.

Walk-in wardrobe

A walk-in wardrobe may seem luxurious, but it’s also practical! Adding one to a new or existing master bedroom can free up space in the bedroom while making organisation way better. Plus, features like this can boost your home’s appeal and value.

Starting a home extension

The extension process might feel a little daunting, but with the right approach, you can turn your vision into reality. Your first step should be finding a local building expert to help you create a plan that aligns with your family’s needs, your property’s layout, and your budget. The goal is an extension that blends seamlessly with your existing home while enhancing its functionality and style.

When you do this with a reputable local builder, who specialises in extensions and renovations, with a solid portfolio and strong client reviews, the process becomes much easier. If you’re unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. Taking the time to choose the right professionals at the outset can make all the difference in how smoothly your extension project progresses and how satisfied you are with the result.

Home extension builders in South East Melbourne you can trust

Eltcon is a regular choice for home extensions in Eastern Melbourne. And most especially, when it comes to understanding the unique needs of growing families. Eltcon extensions enhance your day-to-day comfort. Our close collaboration with architects ensures each project is structurally solid and aesthetically cohesive.

Working with architects from the beginning creates extensions that flow naturally with your existing home. This process makes sure also that it blends with modern features with your home’s original charm. Our skilled in-house carpentry team brings expertise to every build stage and closely monitors quality to ensure the final result is exceptional.

We also offer a range of extension styles to suit your vision. For families seeking extra living space without changing the street-facing look, rear extensions are perfect. They are often designed to connect seamlessly with the backyard for indoor-outdoor living.

So then, those needing significant extra space can opt for a second-storey extension, dramatically increasing square footage while maintaining the home’s footprint. For properties with side yard space, side extensions can add functional rooms like a larger kitchen or extra bedroom.

Whatever you choose, we are committed to making the extension process enjoyable and transparent. Our step-by-step guidance gives you confidence in every phase, ensuring you understand the process and feel secure in your home’s transformation.

The beauty of renovating a small space lies in the details. It’s all about using every nook and cranny to its fullest potential, turning what might seem like a design challenge into an opportunity for creativity. This can come in the form of rethinking your layout, incorporating multi-functional furniture, or mastering the art of minimalist decor. Small-space renovations are less about limitations and more about smart, stylish solutions.

When we custom-build homes or renovate small spaces, planning and preparation need to involve creative ideas for transforming a compact home. A little ingenuity can go a long way, and we are the home builders Melbourne come to for exactly that!

Home Renovation: Embracing the principles of minimalism

Don’t panic; you don’t need to strip your home down to bare walls and a lone mattress on the floor or get rid of everything that doesn’t bring you joy. Minimalism isn’t about going to extremes; it’s about being intentional with your space, keeping only the things that truly serve a purpose or bring you joy.

Minimalism can be a focus on clean lines, smart storage solutions, and keeping the decor light and airy. The fewer distractions and clutter you have, the bigger your space will feel. The goal is to make your home work smarter, not harder, so you can enjoy a comfortable, practical, and aesthetically pleasing environment without feeling boxed in.

Every square inch counts

Your storage is the key to making your small home work for you. The trick is to get creative with how you use space. Wall-hung shelves and cabinets are your best friends when floor space is tight. They keep things off the ground and give extra storage without cluttering your home. If you’re at the architectural stage of a renovation, incorporate built-in storage wherever possible. Think floor-to-ceiling cupboards, under-stair storage, or even cleverly designed seating with hidden compartments.

Don’t forget about the little things, either. Organisers in your drawers and baskets in key areas can catch the clutter before it spirals out of control. This is a game-changer for keeping things tidy without feeling like you’re constantly fighting against the mess.

You’ll want to be smart about your furniture choices to make the most of every room. Take the bathroom, for example—a small space often struggling with storage. Wall-hung fixtures like toilets and vanities free up floor space and give the room a more open feel. Compact vanities and sink basins with built-in storage underneath are another great way to keep things functional without crowding the area.

The brighter a room, the bigger it feels.

Natural light is your best bet for creating that sense of openness. Think about using glass elements—vases, picture frames, or even glass coffee tables—since light will pass through them and spread throughout the room, making it feel larger. And don’t be afraid to go big on windows, skylights, or even swap out a solid door for a glass one to let that natural light flood in.

Pro tip: Play some tricks on the eyes to make your rooms appear taller. Floor-to-ceiling curtains are an easy win as they give the illusion of higher ceilings. You can also use vertical stripes on walls or hang artwork higher than usual to make the space more expansive.

Smaller properties are often designed with cramped floor plans

If you are dealing with a series of small, closed-off rooms with little room for airflow or flow of movement, a thoughtful renovation can dramatically change the dynamic. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by embracing an open floor plan.

Open floor plans allow you to merge key living areas—like the kitchen, dining room, and living room—into a single, expansive space. Instead of feeling confined by walls, you can create a more integrated environment that feels airy and welcoming. Walking into a bright, seamless area where your family can cook, eat, and lounge together means no more feeling segmented by walls.

The beauty of an open floor plan is that it eliminates the isolation of individual rooms, allowing light throughout the space. This can make your home feel almost double its original size. Once you’ve opened things up, you can look for unused or underutilised spaces, like a rarely used cloakroom or awkward gaps between furniture and walls that take up valuable real estate without serving a purpose. Identify these areas and repurpose them into functional spaces that add value.

Connecting your home with the outside

If you have a backyard, it should be used as an extension of your home rather than just a separate area. Integrating outdoor spaces into your daily living can create a more expansive feel within your small property.

One effective way to achieve this connection is by installing large bifold doors or sliding glass walls. These blend your indoor and outdoor spaces, and even if outdoor living isn’t feasible year-round, creating access (visually and physically) to a comfortable outdoor space can extend your living area significantly.

Custom home builders in the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne

Here at ELTCON, our approach to custom-build homes revolves around transforming your aspirations into beautifully crafted homes. We embrace creative flair and innovative lifestyle elements, ensuring your home is a space to live that reflects your individuality and style.

We begin each project with a cooperative effort between our experienced team and your chosen architects and designers, then ensure a smooth experience, keeping you informed throughout the entire process. Quality is non-negotiable, and we partner only with trusted trades and suppliers who share our commitment to excellence. At ELTCON, your satisfaction is our top priority, and we are passionate about bringing innovative design concepts to life.

Building a custom home is a complex process that requires a clear vision, the right home builder and designers, careful planning and execution and clear communication by all parties. One of the most critical phases of a custom home build is the planning and preparation phase, where a dream becomes a vision, and a vision is constructed into a reality.

Read on to learn more about the custom home build planning and preparation process, receive tips for a smooth build, and learn why more homeowners choose our Eltcon building team as their preferred choice for custom home builders in Melbourne.

Define your vision

The first step in planning your custom home is clearly defining your vision. This involves considering your lifestyle, plans, style, tastes and personal preferences. Think about the number of bedrooms you need, the style of the house, and any special features you want, such as a home office, gym, or outdoor entertaining area.

Create a physical or digital vision board with pictures, fabrics, and colour swatches to visualise your dream home so you can communicate your vision clearly to your architect and builder.

Your architect and builder can then provide practical advice on what’s achievable based on your dreams, ideas, and vision. They will likely offer insight and suggestions you may not have considered, sparking further potential concepts, ideas and possibilities.

Choosing the right home builders in Melbourne

The most critical factor in achieving a successful, stress-free custom home build is selecting the right builder for your vision.

Melbourne’s home builders offer a range of styles and services, so it’s essential to find a builder who aligns with your vision and budget. Look for builders with experience, a strong portfolio, and positive reviews.

Questions to Ask Potential Builders:

• Can you show me examples of your previous work?
• What is your estimated timeline for completion?
• How do you handle changes or unexpected issues during construction?

Setting a realistic budget

Budgeting is a critical aspect of building a custom home. Consider what you can afford and include a buffer for unexpected expenses. Work with your builder to understand all costs, from design fees to construction and finishing touches.

Budgeting tips:

• Prioritise your must-haves and be flexible with less critical features
• Keep track of all expenses and regularly review your budget
• Consider potential future costs, such as landscaping and maintenance

Securing financing

Once you have a budget, the next step is to secure financing. Speak to your bank or a mortgage broker to explore your options. Construction loans are often used for building custom homes, providing funds in stages as the project progresses.

Key points:

• Get pre-approved for a loan to know your borrowing capacity
• Understand the terms and conditions of your loan
• Ensure your finances are in order before starting the build

Designing your home

Designing your custom home is where your vision starts to take shape. Work closely with your architect or designer to create a plan that reflects your lifestyle and preferences. Be open to suggestions and consider the functionality of each space.

Design considerations:

• Think about natural light and ventilation
• Plan for adequate storage and functional spaces
• Incorporate energy-efficient features to reduce future costs

Obtaining permits and approvals

Before construction can begin, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits and approvals. Your builder or architect can assist with this process, ensuring all legal requirements are met.

Steps to follow:

• Submit your design plans to the local council
• Pay any required fees on time
• Allow time for the approval process, as it can take several weeks

Preparing the site

Site preparation involves clearing the land, conducting soil tests, and setting up utilities. This stage is crucial for ensuring a solid foundation for your home.

Site preparation checklist:

• Clear any vegetation or debris
• Conduct soil tests to determine suitability for the building
• Arrange for utilities such as water, electricity, and gas to be connected

Beginning construction

With all plans approved and the site prepared, construction can begin. This stage includes laying the foundation, framing the structure, and completing the exterior and interior finishes.

What to expect:

• Regular site visits to monitor progress
• Frequent communication with your builder
• Adjustments and decisions as construction progresses

Interior design and finishing touches

Once the structure is complete, it’s time to focus on the interior design. Choose finishes, fixtures, and fittings that reflect your style and enhance the functionality of your home.

Interior design tips:

• Select a cohesive colour scheme
• Invest in quality materials for durability
• Add personal touches with decor and artwork

Moving in

As construction nears completion, start planning your move. Before moving in, ensure all final inspections are completed and any outstanding issues are addressed.

Moving checklist:

• Schedule a final walk-through with your builder
• Arrange for utilities to be connected and transferred
• Plan your move and book a moving company if needed

Settle into your new home and celebrate!

Once you’ve moved in, settle in and enjoy your new home. Custom-built homes offer a unique living experience, with spaces designed specifically for your needs and preferences.

Final tips:

• Take care of any initial maintenance tasks
• Decorate and furnish your home to make it your own
• Invite friends and family over to celebrate your new space

Maintenance and upkeep

Maintaining your custom home is essential to preserve its beauty and functionality. Regular upkeep will ensure your home remains in top condition for years.

Maintenance tips:

• Conduct seasonal checks and address any issues promptly
• Keep a schedule for routine tasks such as gutter cleaning and HVAC maintenance
• Stay in touch with your builder for any warranty work or repairs

Choose an award-winning custom home builder in Melbourne

Building a custom home is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning and preparation, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. We specialise in the custom home build process, and with our experienced home builders in Eastern Melbourne, you can create a home that perfectly suits your lifestyle and tastes.

If you are ready to start building your custom home, find out why more Melbourne homeowners are partnering with our award-winning team. Call our office today or our online email porthole.