How do I get started with Albert Living?

Book a consultation through our website. We'll discuss your site, your brief, and your budget, then walk you through our full process from design and approvals through to occupancy permit. Everything is managed under one team from day one.

Can I customise my home design?

Every Albert Living home is custom designed from scratch — there are no fixed templates or pre-set floor plans. Your site, your lifestyle, and your brief drive every design decision from the first sketch through to construction.

What makes Albert Living different from other luxury home builders?

Albert Living is the only design-led construction company in Melbourne's inner east that integrates architectural design, structural engineering, custom joinery, stone finishes, and furniture under one roof. Every material, every finish, and every furniture piece is selected during the design phase — not after handover.

How much does it cost to build an architecturally designed home in Kew?

Construction costs for a luxury custom home in Kew typically range from $8,000 to $11,000 per square metre depending on the complexity of the design, site conditions, and the level of custom finishes specified. A 300 sqm architecturally designed home in Kew would generally range from $2.4M to $3.3M in construction value, excluding land.

How much does a knock-down rebuild cost in Kew?

A knock-down rebuild in Kew typically involves two separate costs — demolition and construction. Demolition of an existing dwelling generally costs between $15,000 and $35,000. Construction of a new architecturally designed luxury home in Kew starts from $8,000 per square metre, with full bespoke builds ranging toward $11,000 per square metre.

What are the payment terms for a custom architectural build?

Custom architectural builds are typically structured across 5 to 6 progress payments tied to key build milestones — deposit, base, frame, lock-up, fixing, and practical completion. Construction loans generally cover 70 to 85% of the total construction value, with some lenders going up to 90%.

What design features are most requested in luxury Kew homes right now?

Almost all current builds feature a custom pool and alfresco zone, dual living areas for entertaining and everyday family use, a showpiece kitchen alongside a butler's pantry, multiple ensuite bedrooms, and custom built-in joinery throughout.

Can I choose my own materials and finishes?

Yes — every material is selected collaboratively during the design phase, from natural stone benchtops and floor tiles to custom joinery finishes and furniture. Our in-house stone and joinery collections are available to browse as a starting point.

Do you specialise in renovations or new builds?

Albert Living specialises in luxury knock-down rebuilds and new constructions in Kew. We deliver the highest level of architectural excellence and uncompromised luxury by starting with a clean slate.

How do I know if my block in Kew is suitable for a custom home?

Most residential blocks in Kew are suitable for a luxury custom home or knock-down rebuild. Albert Living conducts a full site assessment at the start of every project, reviewing your certificate of title, planning overlays, and Boroondara zoning controls before a single design decision is made.

How long does it take to design and build an architecturally designed home in Kew?

A full custom architectural build in Kew — from initial design brief through to occupancy permit — typically takes 12 to 18 months. This includes 2 to 3 months for concept design and documentation, 60 days for building permit approval, and 9 to 12 months for construction.

What is it like dealing with Boroondara Council for a new build in Kew?

Building in Kew often means navigating Boroondara's strict neighbourhood character guidelines, heritage overlays, and significant tree protections. Albert Living anticipates these council requirements from day one of the design phase — designing with these overlays in mind rather than fighting them.

Do I need a planning permit to build a luxury home in Kew?

In most cases, no — a planning permit is not required for a single dwelling construction in Kew. Planning permits are typically only required for heritage overlay sites, dual occupancy, or multi-dwelling developments. Albert Living assesses your site from day one and advises you immediately on whether a planning permit applies.

What is the difference between a Planning Permit and a Building Permit?

A building permit is required for all single home constructions in Kew — issued by a registered building surveyor, it confirms your construction drawings comply with the building code. A planning permit is a separate approval issued by Boroondara City Council, only required for heritage overlay sites, multi-dwelling developments, or dual occupancy builds.

How long does a planning permit take in Kew?

If your site requires a planning permit, approval from Boroondara City Council typically takes between 3 and 12 months depending on the complexity of the application and heritage overlays. Albert Living prepares all planning documentation in-house and liaises directly with Boroondara Council throughout.

How long does a building permit take in Kew?

Once all documentation is complete — including architectural drawings, structural engineering, soil test, energy rating, and stormwater plans — a building permit for a luxury custom home in Kew is typically issued within 60 days. Albert Living coordinates and prepares all permit documentation in-house.

Frequently Asked Questions

Luxury informal living room featuring curved sofa and floor-to-ceiling glazing at Villa Arcus by Albert Living, a luxury home design.

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Building in Kew Starts With the Right Questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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