Knockdown rebuild or renovate?
A cost-intelligent way to decide between renovating the home you have and starting again on the site you love.
Start with the site, not the house
Planning controls, setbacks, flood levels and the condition of the existing structure narrow the options quickly. Understanding them first saves design fees spent in the wrong direction.
When renovating makes sense
Where the structure is sound, the layout is broadly workable and the character is worth keeping, a well-planned renovation or addition is usually the better choice.
When a rebuild is better value
Where you would be replacing most of the structure, services and envelope anyway, a rebuild often costs little more — and delivers a home that performs far better.
Getting a clear answer
During feasibility we discuss both options with you — the site, the structure and the likely cost drivers — so you can decide on facts rather than instinct.
Bryce Caldwell is the director of Larq Built, a Newcastle builder of architecturally designed homes and complex renovations with more than 17 years in the industry.
