Residential Renovation & House Extension Architect Melbourne

Create a Home Designed Around the Way Your Family Lives

  • Two-week concept design turnaround
  • Fixed-fee architectural proposals
  • Registered ARBV Architect
Book Your Free Design & Feasibility Review

Melbourne architect Rob Harris designs renovations and extensions for homeowners across Bayside and Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs.

From early ideas and concept design through to architectural plans, approvals and construction guidance, Rob helps you understand what is possible before you commit to building.

Residential Architecture Designed Around Your Home

20+ Years Experience

Two decades of specialised residential architecture and spatial design across Melbourne.

100+ Melbourne Projects

Proven home renovations and extensions across Bayside and South-Eastern suburbs.

Fixed-Fee Transparency

Upfront architectural proposals with complete fee certainty and zero hidden design costs.

Registered ARBV Architect

Formal architectural qualifications, council planning expertise, and professional guidance.


“What impressed me most was Rob’s open communication and quick turnaround time with the original drawings and subsequent amendments. I would highly recommend Rob to anyone looking to get a design for their building project.”






Gregor,

Caulfield East
Contemporary living room with wooden slat divider, gray sofa, and minimalist decor.

                                                                                                                             "Rob was great at helping us engage with the building surveyor and our local council – this meant we met pressing deadlines and ensured all our paperwork was approved by the time our builder was ready to commence works. 

His calm and practical approach was just what we needed throughout the process!”




Jess

Hughesdale
Contemporary kitchen design featuring wood paneling, white island and circular pendant lighting.

“Rob has been brilliant to work with from the moment we engaged him. We have really appreciated his honest feedback and guidance – where he believes one of our ideas won’t work he has explained why and worked with us to find a solution.  

Thanks for a great job Rob.”



Matt and Sarah,

Port Melbourne
Modern open concept kitchen and dining area with wooden accents and black dining set.

Before You Choose A Builder, Understand What You Are Building

Many homeowners begin their renovation journey by searching for builders. However, the success of a renovation or extension often depends on the decisions made before construction begins.

Working with an architect first allows you to explore what is possible, understand the opportunities and challenges of your existing home, and create a clear design direction before moving into construction.

Rob’s role is to help you make informed decisions early, so your renovation is designed around your lifestyle rather than simply adding more space.

Starting with architectural design helps you:

Understand what is possible

Explore different renovation and extension options based on your home, site and requirements.

Create a clearer construction pathway

Develop architectural plans that allow builders and consultants to better understand the project scope.

Avoid costly changes later

Identify design considerations, planning requirements and potential challenges before construction begins.

Create a home that feels connected

Design spaces that improve how your family lives, moves and interacts every day.

Start With A Clear Understanding Of What Is Possible

Planning a renovation or extension can feel overwhelming when you are unsure where to begin.

A Design & Feasibility Review gives you the opportunity to discuss your home directly with Rob and understand:

  • What changes may be possible
  • How your existing home could be improved
  • Potential planning considerations
  • The likely architectural process
  • The next steps for your project

Renovation & Extension Architecture Services

Every home has different opportunities. Rob works with homeowners to design renovations and extensions that respond to the existing property, the surrounding environment and the way they want to live.

Home Renovations

Reconsider how your existing home works and create spaces that better support your lifestyle.

This may include improving layouts, increasing natural light, creating better connections between rooms or updating older homes for modern family living.

House Extensions

Add the space your family needs while ensuring the new addition feels like a natural continuation of your existing home.

Rob considers how the extension connects with the original architecture, garden areas and everyday living patterns.

Ground Floor Extensions

Create more functional living areas while improving the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Ground floor extensions may include new kitchens, living areas, dining spaces, bedrooms or additional family areas.

Second Storey Extensions

Increase your home's footprint without moving.

Rob considers structural requirements, access, privacy, overlooking and how the addition works with the character of your existing home.

Heritage Home Renovations

Preserve the qualities that make your home unique while introducing changes that support contemporary living.

Rob has extensive experience working with Melbourne homes where heritage considerations and planning requirements form part of the design process.

Architectural Plans For Home Extensions

Clear architectural drawings and documentation help turn your ideas into a practical pathway towards approvals and construction.

Renovations & Extensions Designed Around Real Melbourne Homes

Every project begins with understanding the existing home, the homeowner’s needs and the challenges that need to be solved.

Rather than simply adding rooms, Rob looks at how each space connects and how the design can improve the way the home is experienced.

Meet Rob Harris

A Personal Approach To Residential Architecture

Elements of Home was founded by architect Rob Harris in 2005.

With a background influenced by European architectural design and a passion for creating homes that are both practical and personal, Rob specialises in residential renovations, extensions and new homes throughout Melbourne.

Based in Melbourne’s Bayside area, Rob works closely with homeowners across Bayside and Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs.

When you work with Elements of Home, you work directly with Rob.

He takes the time to understand what is important to you, what is not working in your current home and what you want your renovation or extension to achieve.

His role is not simply to prepare drawings. It is to guide you through the decisions involved in creating a home that works for your family.

Melbourne architect Rob Harris

Our Process

A Clear Path From Initial Ideas To Architectural Design

  1. 01. Free Design & Feasibility Review

    Every project begins with a conversation.

    Rob will discuss your home, your ideas, your budget considerations and what you would like to achieve.

    This initial discussion helps identify what may be possible and the likely next steps.

  2. 02. Concept Design

    Rob develops design concepts based on your brief, your property and the way you want to live.

    Concept designs provide an opportunity to explore possibilities before committing to detailed documentation.

  3. 03. Design Development

    Once a preferred direction has been identified, Rob refines the design and considers the details needed to progress the project.

    This may include materials, planning considerations and consultant requirements.

  4. 04. Documentation & Approvals

    Architectural drawings and documentation are prepared to support the relevant approval process.

    Rob can also coordinate with consultants required for your project.

  5. 05. Construction Support

    Depending on your agreed scope of services, Rob can continue providing architectural support as your renovation or extension progresses towards construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I speak with an architect before a builder?

An architect helps you understand what is possible before construction begins.

By developing the design direction and architectural plans first, builders can provide more accurate pricing and you can make decisions with greater confidence.

Can you help if I do not know exactly what I want to change?

Yes. Many homeowners begin with a general idea that their existing home no longer works for them.

The first conversation helps identify opportunities and possible approaches.

Do you provide architectural plans for renovations and extensions?

Yes. Elements of Home prepares architectural drawings and documentation required to progress renovation and extension projects.

How long does the design process take?

Every project is different depending on its complexity. Initial concept designs can often be prepared within approximately two weeks once the project brief and requirements are established.

How much does a renovation or extension cost?

Costs depend on the size, complexity, materials and scope of the project.

Rob helps homeowners understand the design opportunities before progressing further, allowing decisions to be made with a clearer understanding of the project.

Ready To Explore What Is Possible For Your Home?

Speak directly with Melbourne architect Rob Harris about your renovation or extension ideas.

Understand your options before you begin the building process.

Tell Rob About Your Project

Complete the form below and Rob will contact you to discuss your renovation or extension.


Our Services


Home Renovation

Reconsider how your existing home works and create spaces that better support your lifestyle.

This may include improving layouts, increasing natural light, creating better connections between rooms or updating older homes for modern family living.



Aerial view of residential house with solar panels and mixed roofing materials.

House Extensions


Add the space your family needs while ensuring the new addition feels like a natural continuation of your existing home.

Rob considers how the extension connects with the original architecture, garden areas and everyday living patterns.


Modern black timber-clad home extension with large glass sliding doors, triangular skylight window, and white kitchen interior visible.

Ground Floor Extensions


Create more functional living areas while improving the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.


Ground floor extensions may include new kitchens, living areas, dining spaces, bedrooms or additional family areas.




Modern kitchen with wooden cabinetry, white countertops, and blue LED backlighting.

Second Storey Extensions



Increase your home's footprint without moving.


Rob considers structural requirements, access, privacy, overlooking and how the addition works with the character of your existing home.



Modern two-story home with black metal cladding, floor-to-ceiling windows, timber garage door, and concrete render facade.

Heritage Home Renovations


Preserve the qualities that make your home unique while introducing changes that support contemporary living.


Rob has extensive experience working with Melbourne homes where heritage considerations and planning requirements form part of the design process.




Modern two-story house with tiered decks and contemporary architectural design.

Architectural Plans For Home Extensions

Clear architectural drawings and documentation help turn your ideas into a practical pathway towards approvals and construction.

Interior Design


Elevate the ambience and functionality of your space with our personalised interior design services.


From developing the concept and liaising with clients to managing and executing the design, we have the skills and expertise to do it all.

Contemporary living room with beige sofa, wood accents, and modern art decor.

Building Design


Our building design services are focused on houses and sub-divisions. We ensure that every detail is thoughtfully considered to bring your vision to life.


We will coordinate with our team of relevant consultants trained in specialist disciplines as required.



Modern two-story home exterior with large sliding glass doors opening to wooden deck and lawn.

Renovation


Transform your existing space into your dream home with our renovation expertise. 


Whether it is a kitchen or bathroom renovation or an entire property, we will breathe new life into your space, blending exclusive modern design elements with the unique character of the original structure.



Modern house with glass walls overlooking wooden deck and lap pool in backyard.


Our Latest Projects


Why Choose Us

Green line icon illustration of two people having a conversation with speech bubbles.

We offer a free, no-obligation review of your project to understand your vision and needs for your dream home.

Simple green icon showing a hand presenting a proposal document.

We will prepare a fixed-fee proposal for the entire project with no hidden charges or extra costs  We will also include all potential expenses such as arborist assessments and soil reports in our statement and additional consultation fees.

Green line drawing of two puzzle pieces coming together symbolizing collaboration.

We understand the importance of timely progress; thus, we aim to deliver concept designs within 2 weeks of measuring your property

 

Green architectural blueprint icon showing a simple house design with grid lines and measurements.

As we handle everything for you, from council queries to potential objectors, we ensure that you are informed at every stage. Each design decision is presented to you with its pros and cons, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed choices.

Green line icon of a document with house symbol and checkmark certification.

Thanks to our established relationships with external consultants, we ensure a seamless transition throughout the permit process.

 

 

 

Circular green icon showing two people exchanging messages with connecting arrows.

The foundation of our service lies in our excellent communication and professionalism. Your satisfaction is paramount, and we continuously strive to deliver the finest service.

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU


As part of our process, our fixed fee proposals for home extensions work are generally broken down into the following stages:



01.

CONCEPT DESIGN

We visit and measure your entire property so that we can transfer it to computer and prepare a number of design options for discussion. This is where we will explore all the different design options available to you based on your brief and budget.


02.

ESTIMATING

Once the concept plans are finalised, we will send your plans to builders so you have comfort and confidence the design meets your budget before proceeding to the permit stage.


03.

TOWN PLANNING

For many clients a town planning permit is required. We will let you know during our first conversation if this is required. If it is we will prepare all relevant drawings and reports and liaise with council on your behalf.


04.

SUBDIVISION PERMIT

We will prepare all the drawings and relevant documentation necessary to obtain a subdivision permit, including working with professional builders &external subcontractors where needed, for example: engineers, geo-technical specialists, land surveyors, energy rating providers, etc.



HOME EXTENSION

SUBDIVISION

RENOVATION

DRAFTING


Read our blog


Personalised & Supportive


Rob’s service is characterized as personable, professional, and quick. He offers support and guidance throughout the process, handling interactions with consultants and managing bureaucratic procedures with councils on behalf of his clients.


Creative Design Solution


"Rob offers his expertise in designing creative solutions for residential renovations, new homes, and sub-divisions. He takes pride in presenting personalized designs tailored to each client’s unique needs. Whilst balancing functionality, aesthetics, and high standards of quality."


Transparency


Rob provides a quick assessment of the client’s budget to determine if it aligns with their desired project. He ensures transparency by including not only his fees but also the fees of other consultants and permits, providing a clear picture of the project’s expenses upfront.

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Thinking Of Renovating Your Home?

Phone:

0412 183 643


Mail:

rob@elementsofhome.com.au


Location:

Caulfield South, Melbourne VIC 3162

CURRENT MEMBER OF:

Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV)
Australian Institute of Architects logo featuring two kangaroos and a shield emblem.
Official seal and logo of The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS).
Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) logo in black text with stylized figure design.