Backyard Studio Extension for a Home-Based Business In Rowville

Project Overview

This project involved creating a dedicated workspace for a home-based baking business. The homeowner wanted a functional, professional kitchen space that could support daily cake production while still keeping work and home life separate.

The original idea was to convert half of the existing garage into a commercial-style kitchen. However, during the early planning stage, it was discovered that the property sat within a flood overlay area. It made the garage conversion impossible due to floor height restrictions.

As a result, the project scope changed. Instead of converting the garage, the team proposed a standalone building in the backyard, designed to meet the business's needs and comply with all council and building requirements.

Client Goals and Motivation

The homeowner had purchased the property around 12 months earlier and wanted to explore whether running a business from home was possible. The main goals were to:

• Create a practical kitchen space for a cake-making business
• Keep the workspace separate from the main house
• Ensure the design met all council and compliance rules
• Allow easy access between home and work

As this was the client’s first renovation, they did not have clear expectations about timelines, costs, or the process. They relied on Refresh Renovations to guide them through every stage.

Budget and Scope Decisions

The client did not start the project with a clear budget, as the original garage conversion idea was expected to be simpler and lower cost. Once the flood overlay issue was identified and the design changed to a standalone building, the project scope became clearer.

The final project cost was $107,000. The project was mainly design-led, with the kitchen layout needed to suit the specific workflow of a baking business. Practicality, compliance, and functionality were prioritised over cost estimates during the early planning phase.

Design, Engineering, and Consents

Refresh Renovations completed the design work and provided engineering input and assistance with building permits. Council consent was required for the entire structure, as it was a new standalone building.

A significant challenge occurred after the original design was completed and submitted for a building permit. At this stage, the flood overlay was formally identified, which meant:

• The building floor level had to be raised above the flood level
• The design had to be revised
• Costs had to be recalculated
• The new design needed to comply with council requirements fully

The project was successfully redesigned and approved without compromising the overall timeline.

Construction and Trades Involved

Refresh Renovations managed the whole construction process and coordinated all trades, including:

• Plumber
• Carpenter
• Electrician
• Plasterer
• Painter
• Tiler
• Bricklayer (path)
• Demolition team
• Excavator
• Caulker
• Flooring installer

The estimated construction period was 3 months, and the project was completed in 72 days, staying within the expected timeframe despite the design changes.

Challenges and How They Were Overcome

The biggest challenge was discovering the flood overlay after the initial design and permit submission. It required quick problem-solving, redesign, and coordination with council requirements.

By lifting the building floor level and updating the design, the team ensured the project complied fully with regulations while still meeting the client’s needs. The redesign was completed efficiently, and construction continued without extending the overall timeline.

Final Result

The completed standalone building provides a fully functional business workspace that sits close to the main house. One unexpected benefit is how easily the client can switch between work and home life by simply closing the door. The business is left behind.

While resale was not a primary goal, the finished structure has added unique value to the property and offers flexibility for future buyers. The client was very pleased with the outcome and the design's practicality.

Client Experience

As first-time renovators, the client appreciated having Refresh Renovations manage the entire process, from early feasibility through to design, permits, and construction. Clear guidance, problem-solving, and comprehensive project management helped make what could have been a complex project feel manageable and well-organised.

Outcome

This Rowville project is a strong example of how careful planning, flexibility, and professional project management can turn a major obstacle into a successful outcome. The standalone studio now supports a growing home business while maintaining a clear separation between work and home life.