Design Tips to Save Money on Your Build (Without Sacrificing Style)
- Ash
- Sep 9
- 3 min read
Building your dream home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. And while everyone wants a beautiful, functional home, no one wants to waste money on things that don’t add real value. The good news? With some thoughtful planning and smart design choices, you can save thousands without compromising on style or comfort.
Here are our top tips from years of building custom homes across the Coffs Coast.
1. Think About What You Really Need
Ask yourself: Do we need all those extra bedrooms for the handful of nights a year we host visitors? Or is a ten-person dining table really necessary for a dozen family dinners? Designing around your everyday life — not the rare occasion — keeps your build practical and affordable.
2. Keep the Design Simple
Every angle, level change, and complex wall detail adds cost. A simple, well-thought-out floor plan can save significantly on construction while still feeling spacious and stylish.
3. Use Standard Sizes and Pre-Made Elements
Custom = cost. Standard-sized doors, windows, and trimmings are far cheaper and much easier to replace down the track. Even wall finishes like VJ panels can add character without breaking the budget. Next time you’re at Bunnings, take note of what’s readily available — and the cost per metre.
4. Plan for Efficiency from the Start
Your architect should know upfront that efficiency is a top priority. House placement, window positioning, insulation, and ventilation all affect how much you’ll spend on heating, cooling, and lighting over the long term. A home designed for natural airflow and sunlight is cheaper to run and healthier to live in.
5. Choose Cost-Smart Finishes
Benchtops: High-quality laminates can look stunning and are a fraction of the cost of stone.
Tiles: Full-height tiling in showers is smart, but elsewhere you can stop at half-wall for a striking look at half the cost. Avoid extremes — very large or tiny tiles both increase labour costs.
Roofing: Simple rooflines not only look elegant but are much cheaper to build.
6. Spend Wisely on Heating and Cooling
You don’t always need the most expensive air-conditioning system. Often, investing in better windows and insulation gives you greater comfort and long-term savings than splurging on a top-end AC unit.
7. Know What Can Be Changed Later
Some things — like kitchens, bathrooms, and tile choices — are expensive and disruptive to change. Others, like handles, tapware, and light fittings, can easily be upgraded later. Start simple with these “swap-out” items and save your budget for the permanent features.
8. Prioritise Must-Haves vs. Wants
Write two lists: your non-negotiable “must haves” and your nice-to-have “wants.” Put your money where it matters most, then see what’s left for the extras.
9. Get Help With Style Choices
If interior design isn’t your strength, don’t go it alone. At Eco Dynamic Building, we can help guide your selections or connect you with a designer. This saves time, prevents costly mistakes, and ensures your home feels cohesive and well thought out.
Where to Spend Your Money
Saving doesn’t mean skimping — it’s about knowing where to invest for maximum impact. In our opinion, these areas are always worth it:
Entryway: A welcoming, spacious entry sets the tone for your whole home. A pokey entrance can make even a high-end home feel cramped.
Lighting: Good lighting transforms a space. Think layered lighting: task lighting in the kitchen, soft feature lights in living areas, and outdoor lighting to extend entertaining spaces. Done right, lighting always makes a home feel more expensive.
Kitchen: Thin bench tops always look cheaper than thick
Final Thoughts
Building smart is about balance. Spend where it counts, simplify where you can, and don’t be afraid to lean on experts for guidance. The result? A home that feels luxurious, works beautifully for your lifestyle, and doesn’t blow your budget.
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