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Build Your Home Blog
A collection of articles, tips and guides for those looking to build a new home.


Architectural Design: Building Beauty, Not Just Equity
In the building industry, we hear it constantly: “Work with an architect and you’ll add thousands to your property value.”Sometimes it’s even turned into exact figures, $1 spent in design gives you $11.40 back, or examples like the Sydney Opera House generating billions for the Australian economy.
Carmel Homes
Aug 115 min read


Is Dual Occupancy Worth It in 2025? Pros, Cons, and Real Costs
Dual occupancy means building two homes on one block, offering rental income, flexibility for multigenerational living, and higher property value. But it also brings challenges like higher upfront costs, council approvals, and design complexity. In 2025, many Australians see it as a smart way to maximise land, but careful planning with an experienced builder is key to success.
Carmel Homes
Jul 76 min read


Incorporating Authentic French Elements into Your Provincial Home: From Architecture to Décor
Building or renovating your home to capture the timeless elegance of French Provincial style doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re planning a knockdown rebuild, dreaming up a modern home with classic touches, or exploring dual occupancy, this guide will walk you through exactly how to bring authentic French charm into every corner. Below you will find tips for sloping blocks, knockdown rebuilds and incorporating authentic French elements into your home.
Carmel Homes
Jul 75 min read


The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Home Renovations in 2025
Luxury home renovations are evolving fast in 2025. Whether you're restoring a charming French Provincial estate or starting from scratch with a bold knockdown rebuild, the focus has shifted.
Carmel Homes
Jul 25 min read


Luxury Home Design Ideas for Modern Living
Designing a luxury home in 2025 is about more than just grandeur—it’s about merging timeless elegance with modern innovation, sustainability, and personal touches that reflect your unique style.
Carmel Homes
Jun 164 min read


Combining French Provincial Design with Vaastu Principles
Designing a luxury home involves more than selecting materials or styling rooms. For many, the goal is to build a home that feels both elegant and aligned with personal values. Combining French Provincial design with Vaastu principles is one way to achieve this.
Carmel Homes
May 265 min read


Luxury Home Design Ideas for Modern Living
Designing a luxury home in 2025 is about more than just grandeur—it’s about merging timeless elegance with modern innovation, sustainability, and personal touches.
Carmel Homes
May 65 min read


Busting the Myths: Common Misconceptions Surrounding Natural Stone
Natural stone has been utilised in architecture and design for centuries, from ancient structures to modern dream homes.
Carmel Homes
Mar 303 min read


Don't Tell Your Builder How Many Squares Your House Should Be
You know one of the biggest mistakes people make? Walking into their custom home builder’s office and declaring, “I want a 25-square house.”
Carmel Homes
Feb 245 min read


Your Seaside Escape: A Guide to Achieving Timeless Coastal Elegance
Classic coastal style blends simple elegance with timeless sophistication, inspired by the breezy charm of the Hamptons.
Carmel Homes
Feb 245 min read


Custom Homes vs Customised Homes
Building a home isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about creating a space that truly reflects who you are.
Carmel Homes
Feb 104 min read


What is Vaastu Shastra?
Vaastu Shastra is an ancient Indian system of architecture that believes in aligning buildings with nature to bring good luck
Carmel Homes
Jan 315 min read


Top trends in building a custom home in 2025
Step into the future of home design in 2025, where the landscape is evolving to cater to dynamic needs and preferences.
Carmel Homes
Jan 278 min read


Important Features to Consider in a House Plan
Designing your dream home is an exciting journey filled with countless decisions.
Carmel Homes
Nov 5, 20245 min read


What is my ideal architectural style?
Your dream home is a reflection of your taste and personality. But with so many styles to choose from, how do you narrow it down?
Carmel Homes
May 14, 20249 min read


How much does it cost to knock down and rebuild?
Knocking down your existing home and rebuilding on the same block can be an exhilarating endeavor.
Carmel Homes
Apr 3, 20244 min read


How much are custom home plans?
The cost of custom home plans is a crucial consideration in the journey of building your dream home.
Carmel Homes
Mar 2, 20245 min read


How much does it cost to build a French Provincial House?
Dreaming of a French Provincial home? Embrace its elegance but be prepared for all the cost considerations.
Carmel Homes
Feb 21, 20247 min read


5 Bedroom Floor Plans and House Designs - 6 Must Know Tips
Designing a 5-bedroom home means more than arranging rooms and picking furnishings—it's about crafting a space catering to your lifestyle.
Carmel Homes
Feb 13, 20246 min read


What is considered landscape design?
Let's dive into the world of landscape design, where we blend nature and human creativity to create awesome outdoor spaces.
Carmel Homes
Jan 7, 20248 min read
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