Lilyfield Terrace
Knock-down Rebuild Project
A full terrace rebuild designed to maximise space, light, and functionality on a constrained inner-city site — with Development Approval secured.
Overview
This project involved the demolition of an existing terrace and the design of a new two-storey home in Lilyfield, carefully resolving planning controls while delivering a functional and light-filled family residence.
The Client Brief
The clients sought to replace an ageing terrace with a new home that would:
Provide a modern, functional layout for family living
Maximise internal space within a narrow footprint
Improve access to natural light and ventilation
Create a strong connection to outdoor spaces
Deliver a long-term, high-quality architectural outcome
The Challenge
Inner-city terrace sites present a number of constraints, all of which needed to be carefully addressed:
Narrow lot width limiting layout efficiency
Strict height, bulk, and scale controls
Floor Space Ratio (FSR) restrictions
Overlooking and privacy considerations
Overshadowing impacts to neighbouring properties
Integration of parking without dominating the streetscape
Balancing these constraints while achieving a functional three-storey home required a highly considered planning approach.
The Approach
The design focused on maximising the potential of the site while remaining consistent with council controls and the surrounding context.
Key strategies included:
Developing a two-storey layout to efficiently increase usable floor area within the permitted envelope
Carefully positioning openings and balconies to minimise overlooking while maintaining light and ventilation
Designing the building form to respond to adjoining terraces and maintain streetscape continuity
Integrating parking in a way that remains secondary to the architectural presentation
Using vertical planning to create clear zoning between living, private, and service areas
Each decision balanced planning compliance with practical, liveable outcomes.
The Outcome
The project was submitted as a Development Application and successfully approved by council.
The approved design demonstrates:
A clear and compliant response to planning controls
Effective management of privacy and overshadowing impacts
A highly functional layout suited to modern family living
A contemporary interpretation of the traditional terrace form
This project provides a strong example of how constrained inner-city sites can be redeveloped into high-quality homes with the right design approach.
Key Details
Project type: Knock-down rebuild (terrace)
Approval pathway: Development Application (DA) – Approved
Location: Lilyfield, NSW
Site constraints: Narrow lot, FSR controls, privacy + overshadowing
Status: DA approved
Planning a terrace rebuild?
If you're considering rebuilding or significantly renovating a terrace and aren’t sure what’s possible under council controls, we can help you understand your options early—before you commit to design or construction.
