Drafting in Highett That Gets Approved the First Time
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Council-ready drawings tailored to Bayside & Glen Eira requirements
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Clear, practical designs that builders rely on
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Faster turnaround to keep your project moving
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EXCELLENT Based on 17 reviews Posted on Jane McDougallTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We couldn't be happier with Trent from TDM Design. From our first meeting, he truly listened and understood not just what we wanted, but how we live and what matters to us. He took our ideas and added real value to them, helping us extend our heritage home in a way that honours its 100-year history while creating the space we need for modern life. The first set of plans he provided us were spot on!! What also impressed us was Trent's expertise in navigating the council approval process. We purchased the property at the end of September, and thanks to his skilful management of both council requirements and neighbour consultations, we had our green light by the end of December. That timeline seemed impossible at the start, but Trent made it happen. Trent project-managed all of the additional services needed to make the project happen. Surveyors, Engineers, and Energy Consultants, all of the same calibre and high standard. Beyond his technical skills, Trent is simply a wonderful person and a joy to work with. He partnered seamlessly with our builder (who recommended Trent), ensuring everyone's voice was heard and ensuring the smooth transition from design to construction. We feel incredibly fortunate to have found Trent and would recommend TDM Design without hesitation.Posted on Simon WardTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent provided excellent service throughout the Town Planning and Working Drawings stages for our rennovation. He is highly knowledgeable, friendly, and detail-oriented in his approach, and guided us confidently through each step of the process. His communication was clear and consistent from start to finish, and I would highly recommend Trent.Posted on Grant RobertsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent did an amazing design for our renovation. Excellent communication and went above and beyond to even assist with getting the building permit. 10/10!Posted on Shaun MarlowTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have had the pleasure to work with Trent and team at TDM design for the last 10 years on multiple difference projects. The team has an incredible eye for detail and provides a fantastic service from initial engagement, concepts, planning, dealing with consultants and councils to Final drawings and permits. The team provide outstanding communication and knowledge of the Building codes and council regulations and will always go above and beyond to make sure they can do everything possible to complete a project. We look forward to continuing to work with the team for all future projects.Posted on Jessica CraigTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Getting Trent involved in our renovation was hands down the best decision we made. We were completely stuck on how to rework our layout, but Trent came in and quickly figured out the perfect design solution. He took all our ideas on board and transformed them into a plan that not only made sense but maximised the space in ways we hadn’t even considered. His expertise, creativity, and eye for detail made the whole process smooth and exciting. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome, highly recommend Trent to anyone planning a renovation!Posted on Nicole O'HanlonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a really great experience working with Trent, from TDM Design. From the initial consultation to the final drawings, he was professional, detail-oriented, patient and easy to communicate with. He took the time to understand exactly what we wanted, offered helpful suggestions, and delivered quality plans that exceeded our expectations. Trent’s knowledge of local building codes and council regulations was a huge asset, and it really helped streamline the process. We appreciated how responsive and timely Trent was throughout the entire project. We would certainly recommend Trent from TDM Design to anyone looking for a reliable and skilled draftsman. We’ll definitely be using them again!Posted on Tristan CincottaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent is a pleasure to work with and the only one I’ll work with. TDM has helped me with many concepts and designs for projects of ours without a glitch and always a successful result with happy clients.Posted on Pov LuonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent is professional, attentive, and full of creative ideas, he has an ability to translate vision into a beautiful, functional design was truly impressive. Great guy to work with.Posted on Thomas LynchTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent was a great help and resource to get our renovation project up and running. Really happy with the design and Trent was generous with his time to answer questions and make some adjustments as needed! Highly recommend!Posted on BenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We were very happy with the service provided by Trent. Not only did he bring our ideas to life in the design stages, he also organised and liaised with the surveyors, engineers and other parties required get the project up and running.
Your Trusted Drafter in Highett
If you’re planning to renovate, extend, or build in Highett, you need a drafter who understands the unique planning environment of both Bayside and Glen Eira City Council — two councils that overlap in the suburb and each with their own rules and expectations.
At TDM Design, we combine technical accuracy, strong communication, and true local knowledge to produce designs that get approved the first time. Whether you’re updating a post-war home near Highett Road or designing a modern extension close to the Bay Road precinct, our drafter and draftsman services guide your project through every stage—from concept layouts to full council-ready drawings.
With over a decade of experience, we take the stress out of the process and provide documentation that homeowners, builders, and councils can trust.
Our Drafting & Design Services in Highett
At TDM Design, we offer a complete suite of residential drafting and design services, tailored to homes and developments across Highett:
- Concept Design Plans – Establish your project’s direction with clear, functional layouts that outline your goals.
- Design Development & Drafting – Refine your concept into detailed, compliant plans ready for construction and council submission, including 3D visualisations so you can clearly understand the design.
- Town Planning Applications – Professional preparation and submission to Bayside City Council or Glen Eira City Council, including all required supporting documents.
- Building Plans & Working Drawings – Comprehensive technical documentation for builders, surveyors, engineers, and certifiers.
Why Choose TDM Design in Highett?
Local Knowledge
We understand the planning rules of both Bayside and Glen Eira municipalities, including neighbourhood character and setbacks
Owner-Led Service
Trent oversees every project personally, ensuring clear communication and a collaborative approach.
End-to-End Project Support
From early design concepts through to final approvals, we streamline the entire process.
Strong Reputation
Our clients appreciate our attention to detail, reliability, and ability to simplify complex planning requirements.
Understanding Highett
Highett is a fast-growing suburb featuring a blend of original homes, contemporary townhouses, and newer residential developments. Designing in this area requires an understanding of varying planning controls, particularly as the suburb falls across both Bayside and Glen Eira councils.
Common Highett-specific considerations include:
- Neighbourhood character guidelines – Responding to local planning controls, particularly within Glen Eira Council areas.
- Coastal proximity considerations – Accounting for environmental and design factors relevant to Bayside locations.
- Heritage-affected areas – Applying experience from past projects where heritage or character considerations influence design outcomes.
- Medium-density development potential – Supporting dual-occupancy and townhouse layouts where zoning allows.
- Setback, height, and permeability requirements – Ensuring designs align with the specific planning scheme of the applicable council.
At TDM Design, each design is prepared to suit the site’s unique conditions while aligning with the relevant council’s planning requirements.
What Our Clients Say
EXCELLENT Based on 17 reviews Posted on Jane McDougallTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We couldn't be happier with Trent from TDM Design. From our first meeting, he truly listened and understood not just what we wanted, but how we live and what matters to us. He took our ideas and added real value to them, helping us extend our heritage home in a way that honours its 100-year history while creating the space we need for modern life. The first set of plans he provided us were spot on!! What also impressed us was Trent's expertise in navigating the council approval process. We purchased the property at the end of September, and thanks to his skilful management of both council requirements and neighbour consultations, we had our green light by the end of December. That timeline seemed impossible at the start, but Trent made it happen. Trent project-managed all of the additional services needed to make the project happen. Surveyors, Engineers, and Energy Consultants, all of the same calibre and high standard. Beyond his technical skills, Trent is simply a wonderful person and a joy to work with. He partnered seamlessly with our builder (who recommended Trent), ensuring everyone's voice was heard and ensuring the smooth transition from design to construction. We feel incredibly fortunate to have found Trent and would recommend TDM Design without hesitation.Posted on Simon WardTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent provided excellent service throughout the Town Planning and Working Drawings stages for our rennovation. He is highly knowledgeable, friendly, and detail-oriented in his approach, and guided us confidently through each step of the process. His communication was clear and consistent from start to finish, and I would highly recommend Trent.Posted on Grant RobertsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent did an amazing design for our renovation. Excellent communication and went above and beyond to even assist with getting the building permit. 10/10!Posted on Shaun MarlowTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have had the pleasure to work with Trent and team at TDM design for the last 10 years on multiple difference projects. The team has an incredible eye for detail and provides a fantastic service from initial engagement, concepts, planning, dealing with consultants and councils to Final drawings and permits. The team provide outstanding communication and knowledge of the Building codes and council regulations and will always go above and beyond to make sure they can do everything possible to complete a project. We look forward to continuing to work with the team for all future projects.Posted on Jessica CraigTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Getting Trent involved in our renovation was hands down the best decision we made. We were completely stuck on how to rework our layout, but Trent came in and quickly figured out the perfect design solution. He took all our ideas on board and transformed them into a plan that not only made sense but maximised the space in ways we hadn’t even considered. His expertise, creativity, and eye for detail made the whole process smooth and exciting. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome, highly recommend Trent to anyone planning a renovation!Posted on Nicole O'HanlonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a really great experience working with Trent, from TDM Design. From the initial consultation to the final drawings, he was professional, detail-oriented, patient and easy to communicate with. He took the time to understand exactly what we wanted, offered helpful suggestions, and delivered quality plans that exceeded our expectations. Trent’s knowledge of local building codes and council regulations was a huge asset, and it really helped streamline the process. We appreciated how responsive and timely Trent was throughout the entire project. We would certainly recommend Trent from TDM Design to anyone looking for a reliable and skilled draftsman. We’ll definitely be using them again!Posted on Tristan CincottaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent is a pleasure to work with and the only one I’ll work with. TDM has helped me with many concepts and designs for projects of ours without a glitch and always a successful result with happy clients.Posted on Pov LuonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent is professional, attentive, and full of creative ideas, he has an ability to translate vision into a beautiful, functional design was truly impressive. Great guy to work with.Posted on Thomas LynchTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent was a great help and resource to get our renovation project up and running. Really happy with the design and Trent was generous with his time to answer questions and make some adjustments as needed! Highly recommend!Posted on BenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We were very happy with the service provided by Trent. Not only did he bring our ideas to life in the design stages, he also organised and liaised with the surveyors, engineers and other parties required get the project up and running.
Clients Who Trust Us
We’re proud to have worked with homeowners and developers across Melbourne’s most sought-after suburbs, including Caulfield South, Hampton, Sandringham, Ormond, Beaumaris, Black Rock and Mornington Peninsula.
Our projects range from contemporary extensions to bespoke new builds—each one a reflection of the trust our clients place in us.
FAQs – Drafter Highett
Do you handle council approvals for both Bayside and Glen Eira?
Yes. Highett spans both councils, and we manage all documentation, submissions, and communication for either municipality.
What’s the difference between a drafter and a draftsman?
They are the same. Our role is to produce accurate, compliant plans that builders and councils rely on.
Can you help with townhouse or dual-occupancy projects?
Absolutely. We regularly work on medium-density projects throughout Highett.
How long does the drafting and design process take?
The timeframe varies depending on the scope of work. The concept design stage alone typically takes around 3–6 weeks, with additional time required for design development, documentation, and council-ready drawings depending on project complexity and approval requirements.
Start Your Highett Project Today
Whether you’re creating a modern renovation, designing a new home, or planning a multi-dwelling development, TDM Design provides drafting expertise that ensures your project moves forward quickly, clearly, and compliantly.
Call us today at 0404814669