Written by our team of Masters-qualified building designers
Featured
Some buildings are seen; the best ones are discovered. Shiraz introduces Discover the Taste of Architecture — a four-part design philosophy for homes that reward attention over time.
DA and BA are separate approvals in Canberra. A development approval assesses whether a proposal is acceptable under the Territory Plan, while a building approval assesses construction safety and National Construction Code compliance. This guide explains
Changing an office, warehouse, shop or residence to a new use can trigger several approval requirements in Canberra. This guide explains when you may need a development application, Crown lease variation, building approval and a new certificate of occupan
A practical starting point for understanding Canberra zoning and development. Explore residential and commercial zones, Crown leases, subdivision, planning controls and realistic site potential.
Planning a commercial development, fit-out or change of use in Canberra? This guide explains commercial, industrial and community zones—and why zoning, Crown lease permissions and NCC building classification must all be checked before proceeding.
What can you build in Canberra’s medium- and higher-density residential zones? Compare RZ3, RZ4 and RZ5 requirements, including maximum storeys, site coverage, townhouses, apartments, parking and practical development feasibility
Zoning alone does not determine what can be built on a Canberra property. Learn how the Crown lease, block frontage, slope, trees, easements, services, parking and title strategy shape the realistic development potential of your site.
Canberra’s residential planning rules changed significantly on 1 July 2026. Discover what the new RZ1 and RZ2 provisions mean for dual occupancies, townhouses, low-rise housing, subdivision and the development potential of established suburban blocks.
What NCC 2025 changes for Canberra commercial projects—and why programme, rooftop solar, energy modelling, waterproofing and fire coordination now need earlier decisions.
A practical guide to NCC 2025 for Canberra houses and townhouses, with a focus on condensation, cavities, waterproofing and early design coordination.
A room schedule explains what a home contains, but not how it should feel. This practice essay shows how architects can translate remembered places and rituals into precise design decisions.