What to Expect When You’re Planning a Knockdown Rebuild

Knockdown Rebuilds on the Sunshine Coast: Where to Begin When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed

AUSMAR's latest knockdown rebuild project in Tewantin 

Planning a knockdown rebuild can be exciting - but if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. One of the most common things we hear from clients is “I don’t know what I want.” Whether it's the build process, council regulations, or even something as simple as colour selections, the key is working with a builder who can break it down step by step.

How To Get Started

Step 1: Choose an Experienced Builder (It Makes a Huge Difference)

The knockdown rebuild process is very different from building in a new estate like Aura or Harmony. From navigating council overlays to site-specific challenges, there’s more involved - and it’s why choosing a builder with knockdown experience is crucial.

Step 2: Do the Due Diligence

We begin with desktop research, jumping into council records to check for overlays like:

• Bushfire risk
• Flood zones (especially near the coast)
• Acoustic requirements
• Minimum habitable floor heights

This tells us what’s possible - and what needs to be factored into your design and quote.

Step 3: Visit the Site and Assess the Practicalities
Every block is different. We’ll meet you onsite to look at:

• Site access (including traffic and footpath disruptions)
• Bus stops and neighbouring property boundaries
• Retaining walls and fencing
• Water and power connection points
• Build envelope limitations

This informs the final layout, build method, and budget. Hear more from Caitlyn our Home & Land Consultant.

A Real Client Story: “We Don’t Know What We Want”

One of our recent knockdown clients said something we hear often: “We don’t even know where to start.”

Not just with the build - but with the colour selections too.

In true client style, they sent us two completely different inspiration photos. And while the styles clashed on the surface, we looked deeper and found what they had in common:

• Clean lines
• A preference for tile flooring
• A minimal, uniform look without too much visual clutter

We began with flooring - a great place to anchor a palette - and selected two understated tile options. From there, we built up:

• Warmth through wood grains like Laminex Milkwood
• Contrast with chrome or gold tapware, depending on the style direction they lean toward
• Neutral cabinetry with soft texture for a timeless finish

When the client visits for their colour selection, we’ll have both schemes laid out side by side. Even if they’re unsure walking in, they’ll walk away with a clear direction. That’s what our process is built to do - take the stress out of decision-making and help you move forward with confidence.

Hear more from Josh our Atelier Design Expert.

3 Mistakes to Avoid With Knockdown Rebuilds

1. Expecting the builder to do everything

We’ll manage most of it - but some things, like demolition, fencing and neighbour communication, fall to the client.

2. Underestimating timeframes

Unlike new estate builds, knockdowns need additional reports and longer approval times. Be realistic - and plan accordingly.

3. Not planning where to live during the build

Whether renting or staying with family, make sure your living situation lines up with your build schedule.

Hear more from Caitlyn our Home & Land Consultant.

Feeling Lost? That’s Exactly Why We’re Here

You don’t need all the answers right now. Whether you’re unsure about timelines, tiles, or tapware - our job is to help you figure it out. We’ll guide you from planning to handover, one decision at a time.

Considering a knockdown rebuild on the Sunshine Coast? Let’s chat - and take the first step together.
✓ Visit our Display Homes.
✓ Book an appointment with a Sales Consultant.
✓ View our Knockdown Rebuild.