High-end new homes, renovations and extensions across Melbourne. Owner-led from first sketch to handover, and backed by a $20M warranty most builders can't match.
Knockdown rebuild builders in Melbourne
A knockdown rebuild replaces an existing house with a new home on the same block. Lambert York provides demolition, permits and construction for Melbourne homeowners who want to keep their location but change their house, across Bayside, the Inner East, Mornington Peninsula and North West Melbourne. Pat compares the scope; David oversees delivery.
When renovating costs more than starting again.
A tired house on a great block often costs more to fix than to replace. Pat will walk the site and give you an honest comparison — renovate or rebuild — before you spend anything on drawings.
Compare ways to change your home
| Option | What changes | What needs review | Existing guide timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retain and renovate | Keep suitable existing structure and update the layout, services or finishes | Existing structure, desired scope and heritage constraints | 3–9 months on site, depending on scope. TODO: Confirm with Pat. |
| Rear extension | Add ground-floor kitchen, living or dining space towards the garden | Garden space, access and connection to the existing house | 6–9 months overall; 5–7 months building. TODO: Confirm with Pat. |
| Second-storey addition | Add upstairs rooms without using more garden space | Footings, frame, stairs and roof work | 8–12 months overall; 7–10 months building. TODO: Confirm with Pat. |
| Knockdown rebuild | Replace the existing house on the same block | Demolition, new drawings, site constraints and approvals | 12–16 months overall; 10–14 months building. TODO: Confirm with Pat. |
From old house to new keys.
Site assessment
Renovate-vs-rebuild costing, overlays and title checks.
Design & permits
Drawings, planning and building permits handled for you.
Demolition
Safe removal, disconnections and neighbour protection.
New build
Your new home, built to the drawing and the date.
Five stages. Two owners.
Demolition and build run as one programme, with no gap between contractors.
Assess
Honest renovate-or-rebuild numbers.
Design & price
Plans, selections and one fixed price.
Permits & demo
Permits approved, house removed, site prepared.
Build
Weekly updates and open site visits.
Move in
Same street, brand-new home.
Finished the way it was drawn.
Asked before contract.
How much does a knockdown rebuild cost in Melbourne?+
A reliable price needs your drawings, site conditions and selections. TODO: Pat to confirm a knockdown-rebuild budget range, including demolition and exclusions. Pat confirms inclusions and exclusions before you commit.
How long does a knockdown rebuild take?+
The existing service guide lists 12–16 months overall; 10–14 months building. TODO: Confirm the current timeframe and the boundary between design, approvals and construction with Pat. Your project programme is agreed before contract, with David providing build updates.
Do I need permits for this work in Melbourne?+
Building approvals are part of the new-build process, and planning requirements depend on the site and proposal. Zoning, overlays and the design need review before the required approvals and programme can be confirmed.
Should I renovate or knock down and rebuild?+
The existing structure, block and changes you want determine which option makes sense. Pat compares retaining and extending the house with replacing it before you commit to either scope.
What does the $20M warranty facility mean for my project?+
The $20M figure is Lambert York's builder warranty insurance facility, not a $20M payout for your home. Your project's insurance has its own certificate, terms and limits; ask Pat to explain the documents that apply to your contract.
Who will quote my project and run the build?+
Pat Pugliese handles quotes, pricing, contracts and client contact. David Filippelli runs the site, trades, programme and build quality, and both founders stand behind the work.
Where in Melbourne does Lambert York build?+
Lambert York serves Bayside, the Inner East, Mornington Peninsula and North West Melbourne. Send Pat your address and proposed scope to discuss your site's suitability and the next step.
Where we build
We work across Bayside, including Brighton, Hampton, Sandringham; Inner East Melbourne, including Malvern, Toorak, Hawthorn; Mornington Peninsula, including Mornington, Mount Eliza, Safety Beach; and Melbourne North West, including Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Ascot Vale. Talk to Pat about your property, plans and scope.
Related services
Not sure whether to renovate or rebuild?
Pat will walk your block and give you honest numbers for both.