The section was prime — large and tucked away at the end of a driveway in an established central-city suburb. It would be ideal for three modern homes on their own titles, including the builder’s own. Trouble is, the 926sqm site was tricky, and any project demanded precision, co-ordination and myriad skills to make happen. Access was tight, but the defining challenge was ‘daylighting’ of a stormwater pipe and reinstatement of an open stream. The overflow path had to be reshaped to mitigate flood risk and the edges planted. This involved 391sqm of earthworks, piling and rigorous sediment control to protect the environment. Semi-recessed building platforms were stabilised with steel, timber and concrete retaining systems. Suspended concrete slabs remedied differences in ground levels. Now the three-floor homes could rise from the ground.

With cantilevers and a stylish combination of weatherboard, metal and brick cladding, the finished properties are off to a flying start. The builder’s home, 249sqm and with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, is representative of the trio. On the lower floor is a double garage and a bedroom with ensuite and its own deck. Up a wide staircase is the open living zone — a designer white-and-wood kitchen with scullery, plus dining and living areas bathed in dappled light and with access to a private deck. On the top level are more bedrooms, a bathroom and the main suite worthy of a luxury hotel.