Project Overview

The site was land-locked by a council reserve and situated down the side of a hill. The only way to construct the three-storey extension was to use a 50-ton crane for the transport of all building materials delivered to the site.

The footings for the support of the structure were pier and beam. This was constructed by using a track machine with an auger bit attached to the rear. There were 30 off 450mm-diameter piers installed in total.

The renovated house has three bedrooms, master bedroom with an ensuite, study, living, kitchen, family room with balcony, bathroom guest toilet, undercroft to be used for an inside/outside area.

Part of the brief was to construct a block retaining wall to retain council fill.

Client Testimonial

“Over a twelve month period, P & N O'Carroll Design and Construction completed a major upgrade of our family home. The work involved a three storey extension and extensive hard landscaping on difficult terrain and renovations to the original house to complement the new sections. The construction went smoothly and was a positive, mainly stress-free experience. This was despite:

• Only moving out for seven weeks during construction activity.
• Running a research consultancy from the premises thoughout the work.
• Closing our street six times to crane material on and off site.
• Needing to gain permission from Council to use Open Space for delivery and temporary storage of some materials.

“All of this was achieved by working directly with Peter O'Carroll, without engaging a supervising architect or project manager.

“We highly recommend P & N O'Carroll Design and Construction Pty Ltd due to the manner in which our work was completed and for the quality of the finished product. Our communication with Peter and Nanette was always direct, professional and productive and Peter's ability to negotiate sensible outcomes with Council, keep the neighbours informed and happy, and provide valued advice while leaving decisions to us were critical to the success of the project. Both the staff and contractors provided quality products and services. When small problems arose, they were addressed quickly and professionally, including post-construction rectifications.

“During 2000 the company was re-engaged to complete further work involving a bathroom and billiard room with bar area. Again, work was completed to a high standard and the experience was a positive and stress-free one. All work associated with design and documentation of project specifications was completed through direct consultation with Peter and without input from an architect or designer.

“We recommend P & N O'Carroll Design and Construction Pty Ltd to prospective clients and we have also recommended them to friends.

“We did not know the O'Carrolls when we contacted their company. However, as a result of the positive experiences outlined above, extending over a four year period, together with our collaboration in a number of community projects, we now regard the O'Carrolls as good friends as well as the owners of a very professional and well respected building company. Perhaps this is the highest praise of all.”