Building Design Services & Drafting in Melbourne

Turn your vision into council-approved, builder-ready plans with a design process that keeps communication clear and projects moving.

10+ years of Melbourne residential design
Faster approvals, fewer headaches.
Designer & Builder working in tandem
Work directly with TDM's owner on every project
Clear, buildable plans local builders trust

Request Project Quotation

Customer Reviews

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 19 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Matt 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trent has been fantastic throughout the whole project and we have really appreciated his insights, patience and expertise.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   S H 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a local custom builder, we have engaged Trent & the TDM Design team to complete multiple projects. Trent's attention to detail in his design work and general care for his clients is exactly what we love about TDM. If you are a homeowner requiring Drafting services with an Architectural flair for renovation, extension or a new build then TDM is the one.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jane McDougall 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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 Google  
   
   Simon Ward 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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 Google  
   
   Grant Robertson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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 Google  
   
   Shaun Marlow 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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 Google  
   
   Jessica Craig 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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 Google  
   
   Nicole O'Hanlon 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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 Google  
   
   Tristan Cincotta 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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 Google  
   
   Pov Luon 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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.
  
 
  
  
 
     Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

From First Concept to Final Drawings — Managed Seamlessly

At TDM Design, we help homeowners navigate every stage of the drafting journey assisted by a residential building designer in Melbourne.
Whether you’re renovating, extending, or building new, Trent personally oversees your project – from the first on-site meeting to final documentation – ensuring the design looks great, meets regulations, and is practical for construction.

Our services cover every step required to move from concept to construction:

Concept Design Plans

Design Development & Drafting

Town Planning Applications

3D Visualisation

Project Coordination

Building Plans / Working Drawings

Concept Design Plans

Exploring ideas and creating layouts that work for your lifestyle

Every successful project starts with a well-considered concept.

In this stage, we meet on site to discuss your design brief, review site conditions, and establish project goals. Using your ideas and our experience, we prepare concept layouts that balance form, function, and compliance requirements.

This is where big-picture thinking happens — optimising natural light, flow, and orientation.

We focus on developing a strong spatial concept that becomes the foundation for all following stages.

What’s included:

Design Development & Architectural Drafting SERVICES IN MELBOURNE

Refining your concept into detailed, compliant design documentation

Once a preferred layout is chosen, we move into detailed design development.

Here we resolve technical elements — setbacks, height limits, energy performance, and structural logic — while refining the look and feel of the home.

This is also where 3D visualisations may be introduced, helping you clearly see proportions, facades, and finishes before anything is finalised.

What’s included:

Town Planning & Council Approval Assistance

Getting approvals through council with less stress

Town planning can feel like a maze, we handle the details so you don’t have to.

TDM Design prepares all required documentation and liaises with council officers to progress your application efficiently.

We also manage consultants and coordinate any required amendments or reports, ensuring communication stays streamlined from submission to permit.

What’s included:

Working Drawings

Detailed, accurate documentation ready for builders and surveyors

Working drawings turn design intent into precise construction documentation.

Every detail — from wall sections to window schedules — is clearly documented to reduce site queries, control costs, and simplify approvals with your building surveyor.

What’s included:

Working Drawings

Our process is built on clarity and collaboration.

Initial Consultation

Discuss your project goals and brief.

Site Meeting

Trent visits your property to understand its opportunities and constraints.

Concept Design

We prepare early layout options and gather your feedback.

Design Development & Drafting

Your preferred layout becomes a detailed, compliant design.

Town Planning

Where required, we manage the entire submission process.

Working Drawings

Complete documentation for tender, quoting, and construction.

Why Choose TDM Design

Owner-led service

Every client works directly with Trent from start to finish.

Council-ready expertise

Drawings prepared with local planning policies in mind.

Builder-friendly plans

Practical designs that make construction smoother.

Transparent communication

Consistent updates and full visibility at every stage.

Complete coordination

Consultants and approvals managed on your behalf.

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.

Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my design idea is possible?

We assess your site conditions, zoning, and overlays to confirm feasibility before design work begins.

Do you meet clients in person?

Yes — Trent personally meets every client for on-site discussions and key milestones.

How long does the process take?

Timelines vary by project and council. We’ll provide a realistic schedule after the initial meeting.

Can you help with council communication?

Absolutely. We prepare all required documentation and liaise directly with council officers.

What’s the difference between TDM Design and an architect?

As a building design and drafting practice, we focus on practical, construction-ready documentation that meets your brief efficiently — often with faster turnaround and lower design costs.

Town Planning & Council Approval Assistance

Book a consultation or request a staged quote.