Canberra's Leading
Custom New Home Builders
30+ Years Building Award-Winning Custom Homes Across the ACT
Custom New Home Building Services in Canberra
- Full Custom Home Design & Build: - Completely bespoke homes designed for your lifestyle and block
- Luxury Custom Homes: High-end, architecturally designed residences
- Dual Occupancy Custom Builds: Maximise your land value with smart dual living designs
- Sloping Block Specialists:Expert custom designs for Canberra's challenging terrain
- Energy-efficient Custom Homes: GreenSmart certified sustainable building
Building Quality Control at Every Stage
- In-House Oversight: Direct supervision by Upmarket's construction managers
- Skilled Tradespeople: Long-term relationships with Canberra's best trades
- Stage Inspections: Comprehensive checks at every construction phase
- HIA Compliance: Full HIA Building Contract protection
- Industry Certifications: GreenSmart, HIA, MBA memberships
- Warranty Backed: Comprehensive builder's warranty on all work
Swipe To View Our Custom New Home Builds
Interior Design For Custom New Homes
Transform your vision into reality with Upmarket Homes’ comprehensive interior design service. Our passionate designers bring 25 years of experience in creating warm, inviting spaces that reflect your personal style while incorporating the latest trends in colour, texture, and finishes.
Our interior design process includes:
- Initial mood and style consultations to capture your vision
- Selection of fixtures, finishes, and materials
- Kitchen cabinetry, flooring, wall finishes, and ceramic tiles
- Comprehensive colour coordination for cohesive design
- Window treatments and external colour schemes
- Detailed construction drawings and
We Specialise In Sloping Block House Designs
Sloping blocks present unique opportunities, and Upmarket Homes has specialised in split-level custom designs for over 25 years. Our expertise in designing and constructing homes on challenging terrain turns site difficulties into architectural advantages.
Our comprehensive approach includes:
- Complete site feasibility analysis before design begins
- Understanding site access, trees, easements, and existing driveways
- Compliance with all ACT Planning Authority regulations
- Custom split-level designs that minimise cut and fill
- Reduced site preparation and retaining wall costs
- Optimised designs that maintain natural drainage patterns
Custom Designed Homes For Corner Blocks
Corner blocks offer exceptional opportunities for statement homes with prominent street presence. Upmarket Homes understands the unique planning requirements and design considerations needed to maximise these premium locations.
Our 30-year track record in corner block construction ensures your home embraces all site benefits while optimising indoor-outdoor living in response to solar orientation and street addressing.
Our corner block approach includes:
- Quality design and finishes on both street frontages
- Strategic positioning of rooms for privacy and security
- Compliance with all planning regulations and restrictions
- Site-specific design that captures natural light
- Thoughtful placement of living areas and bedrooms
- Integration of outdoor spaces with functional design
Specialised Split-Level Custom Home Designs.
Maximise your sloping block investment with Upmarket Homes’ specialised split-level designs. Our site-specific approach delivers unique homes that fully embrace your land’s opportunities while reducing costs and enhancing livability.
Upmarket Homes split-level advantages:
- Custom designs that minimise cut and fill requirements
- Reduced site preparation and retaining wall costs
- Lower driveway slope gradients
- Brilliant integration between living areas and backyard
- Enhanced drainage and cross-ventilation
- Prominent street appeal and elevated design
Dual Occupancy & Duplex Designs
As Canberra’s most innovative dual occupancy and duplex builder, Upmarket Homes creates contemporary designs that maximise site yield while meeting all ACT Planning Authority requirements, including challenging solar canopy regulations.
Our professional design, estimating, and construction team delivers custom duplexes with substantial street presence and high-quality finishes throughout.
Our duplex designs feature:
- Custom designs that maximise site potential and yield
- Contemporary interior spaces flowing to gardens and terraces
- Seamless indoor-outdoor connections
- Spacious, well-designed living areas with natural light
- Principal suites accommodating king-sized beds
- Substantial secondary bedrooms
- Feature entry areas where possible
- Privacy-focused layouts separating bedrooms from living areas
- Well-appointed open-plan kitchens with Caesarstone benchtops
- Walk-in pantries where site conditions allow
Canberra's Award Winning
#1 Custom Home Builder
With over 30 years of continuous membership with the Housing Industry Association and three decades of building experience in Canberra, we bring proven local expertise and industry-leading standards to every project. As GreenSmart Professional certified sustainable home builders and members of Master Builders ACT, we're committed to excellence in both craftsmanship and environmental responsibility.
Our dedication to quality has been recognised through our 2023 Southern NSW/Region Winner award for Canberra Built Home and our selection as Australian GreenSmart Awards Finalist 2023 in the Multi Dwelling Development category, demonstrating our capability across both residential homes and larger-scale developments.
HIA Winner
Custom Home Builder Award
Master Builders
Custom Home
Builder Award
What Canberra Customers Say About
Our New Custom Home Builds
Our END-TO-END Home Building process
How to Get Started - Our Custom Home Building Process
Our proven 7-step process takes you from initial concept to completion with complete transparency. Fixed pricing, clear timelines, and our Site-Start Guarantee mean you’ll have confidence at every stage. Here’s how we bring your custom home to life.
Step 1: Concept Design and Quote
Upmarket Homes in-house designers prepare your preliminary Custom Design. The design will be specific to your site, taking advantage of your block’s unique characteristics. Upmarket Homes will provide a full itemized quotation. View Our Design Concept Process
Step 2: Accept Quotation
Upmarket Homes Quotation is based on your preliminary Custom Design plans and inclusions; we offer a detailed pricing schedule which gives you the opportunity to make an informed decision.
Step 3: Finalise Plans and Inclusions
At the payment of your tender acceptance fee, our in-house designers prepare full construction plans which feature façade finishes and all elevations, while our construction team finalise your specifications and inclusions.
Step 4: Plan Approval Application
Once you’ve accepted your final plans, we prepare and submit all documentation for approvals.
Step 5: Sign Building Contract
Upmarket Homes will arrange a time with you to sign your HIA Building Contract.
Step 6: Plans Approved
Great news! Once Upmarket Homes have received your approved plans, we double check the approval documents and arrange the commencement certificate for your build.
Step 7: Construction Begins!
Now that your HIA building contract has been signed and your building approval received, a date will be scheduled for works to commence on your new build.
Meet the Team Who You Will Be Working With
Upmarket Homes is dedicated to providing our clients with the highest quality service in the industry. Our team of experienced professionals is knowledgeable about every aspect of residential construction and is committed to helping you build your dream home. With a focus on customer satisfaction, we strive to exceed your expectations every step of the way.
Mark Whithear
Managing Director
Mark's background as a carpenter underpins his passion for the technical aspects of building. He's been involved in the Canberra building industry since 1984 and founded Upmarket Homes in 1990. His extensive industry knowledge provides the solid foundation for the homes that we build.
Sam Oliver
Contracts Manager
Sam completed a Bachelor of Building and Construction Management at the University of Canberra and is a licenced builder. He is an integral part of our tight knit construction team and has been instrumental in completing our homes on time with the highest level of compliance.
what makes us different
Why Choose Us for Your Custom Home Build?
When it comes to building your dream custom new home, selecting the right builder makes all the difference. Here’s why partnering with us ensures an exceptional experience from concept to completion.
Get Started Faster
Guaranteed site start with no waiting in line - We'll get you on your site within three to four weeks of receiving your completed land and finance documentation. We understand and respect the stage you're at in your journey, so we're eager to commence building and turn your vision into reality.
Transparent, Fixed Pricing You Can Trust
When we quote you a price for the home you want, that's the price you can expect to pay. Unlike specific variations that may be raised post-contract, our clients enjoy the peace of mind that comes with price certainty. We've been operating in Canberra for 25 years, building long-lasting relationships with our clients based on trust, transparency, and delivering on our promises.
Exceptional Quality Control
With 25 years of experience and over 200 quality-certified custom home projects to our name, we've perfected the art of delivering superior craftsmanship. Our in-house quality control system is in place to ensure your new home meets your expectations at every stage of construction.
Long-Term Peace of Mind
6 years structural guarantee - We stand behind our work with a comprehensive structural guarantee, giving you confidence in your investment. Our certified membership and rigorous construction standards ensure your home is designed and constructed to the highest specifications, with all clients receiving a 6-year structural guarantee.
6 months home maintenance - Your relationship with us doesn't end at handover. We provide six months of complimentary home maintenance, and our commitment extends well beyond that. Even after we've handed over the keys, referrals to your friends and family are a big part of our 25-year success story.
Energy Efficiency That Saves You Money
6+ star energy efficiency rating - Our Custom Designs and Go Green! package feature passive solar custom designs that maximise Canberra's unique climate advantages. With good design principles and quality inclusions, you'll enjoy a comfortable living environment year-round whilst significantly reducing your electricity and gas bills over the long term.
30+ Years Experience
Over 30 years of proven stability - In an industry where builders are unfortunately going bust at an alarming rate, our three decades of continuous operation speak volumes about our financial stability and business management. We're not going anywhere. When you build with us, you're choosing a partner with the experience, resources, and solid foundation to see your project through from start to finish—and be there for you long after you've moved in.
Canberra's leading homes company
Your One-Stop-Shop for Worry Free Home Building
Our guarantee means you'll never need to coordinate between multiple contractors, chase down warranties, or worry about who's accountable when issues arise.
Site-Start Guarantee - no queues
Unlike volume builders who place clients in lengthy queues, Upmarket Homes commences construction within four weeks of receiving your plan approval. We respect that you’re eager to start, and we’re ready when you are.
Fixed Price, Zero Surprises
When we quote your custom home build, that price is locked in. Our detailed quotation covers everything—no variation requests, no hidden extras, no surprise costs. Just honest, transparent pricing backed by 30 years of integrity.
Complete In-House Custom Design
Our experienced Canberra-based designers prepare preliminary custom designs specific to your site. Every design takes advantage of your block’s unique characteristics, orientation for Canberra’s sun patterns, views, and terrain. No generic plans—pure custom architecture.
Proven Canberra Expertise
30+ years building exclusively in Canberra and the ACT means we understand local building codes, climate considerations, seasonal challenges, and what truly works in the capital. Our knowledge is your advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions - Custom New Home Builders Canberra
How quickly can my custom home construction start?
With our Site-Start Guarantee, construction commences within four weeks of receiving ACT planning approval. Unlike volume builders who queue projects, when your approvals come through, we’re ready to start your custom build immediately.
What does a custom home cost in Canberra?
Every Upmarket custom home is uniquely designed for your specific site and requirements, so pricing varies based on size, design complexity, inclusions, and site characteristics. Our preliminary design package ($3,800) includes detailed custom plans and a comprehensive fixed-price quotation.
Do you charge hidden extras or variation fees?
Absolutely not. Our fixed pricing guarantee means the quoted price is your final price. Our detailed quotation covers every element of your custom home build. No hidden fees, no surprise variations, no unexpected costs—just honest, transparent pricing backed by 30 years of building integrity in Canberra.
How is a custom home different from a project home?
Custom homes are designed specifically for your block, lifestyle, and preferences—nothing is off-the-shelf. Our designers analyse your land’s orientation, slope, views, and characteristics to create a unique design maximising your site’s potential. Project homes use standardised plans that may not suit your block or lifestyle needs. With Upmarket, you get pure custom architecture.ts, and help convince the visitor that you are a good fit for them.
How do you handle Canberra's challenging building sites?
30+ years building exclusively in Canberra means we’re experts in the capital’s terrain. Sloping blocks, elevated sites, narrow blocks, challenging access—we’ve successfully built custom homes on every type of Canberra site. Our experience with local geology, drainage requirements, and ACT building codes ensures smooth construction regardless of site complexity.
Are custom homes more expensive than project homes?
Not necessarily. Whilst custom design allows for premium features if desired, it also means we can design specifically for your budget and priorities. There’s no wasted space on features you don’t need. Our fixed pricing and 30 years of cost management experience mean your custom home delivers better value than you might expect.
How energy-efficient will my custom home be?
Upmarket Homes is a certified GreenSmart Professional builder. Every custom home we design incorporates passive solar principles, optimal orientation for Canberra’s climate, premium insulation, energy-efficient glazing, and smart climate control. Most Upmarket custom homes achieve 7+ star energy ratings, slashing heating and cooling costs whilst maximising year-round comfort.
Can I make changes during the build?
Our detailed design and selection process before construction minimises the need for changes. However, we understand circumstances change. Whilst our fixed pricing covers the agreed design, we can accommodate variations if needed—though these may affect timeline and cost. Our recommendation is to finalise all decisions before construction commences.
How long does it take to build a custom home in Canberra?
From initial consultation to final handover: typically 10-18 months. This includes design (6-10 weeks), ACT planning approval (6-12 weeks), and construction (7-12 months depending on home size and design complexity). Our Site-Start Guarantee ensures once approved, construction begins within four weeks.
Do you handle all the ACT planning approvals?
Absolutely. Upmarket manages the entire approval process including documentation preparation, council submissions, and liaison with ACT planning authorities. Our 30 years navigating Canberra’s planning system means we know exactly what’s required for smooth, efficient approvals.
What areas of Canberra do you build in?
We build custom homes throughout greater Canberra and the ACT region—from Gungahlin to Tuggeranumba, Belconnen to Molonglo Valley, plus surrounding areas including Queanbeyan, Jerrabomberra, and Googong. If you have land in the ACT or surrounding region, we can build your custom home.
What makes Upmarket different from other Canberra builders?
Three decades of exclusive Canberra experience, complete in-house custom design, GreenSmart certification, fixed pricing with zero surprises, our Site-Start Guarantee, award-winning quality, and most importantly—our reputation. We’ve built over 500 custom homes for Canberra families, and our clients’ testimonials speak for themselves.
Can I visit homes you've built?
Whilst we respect our clients’ privacy, we occasionally organise home tours with permission from homeowners. We also maintain a comprehensive portfolio of completed custom homes showcasing our design versatility and construction quality. Contact us to arrange a portfolio review.
Can I use my own custom home designs?
Absolutely! We welcome clients who want to bring their own designs or work with their own architect. Our experienced team can work from your plans to bring your vision to life, ensuring all designs meet local building codes and regulations. We’ll collaborate closely with you and your designer throughout the process to ensure the final build matches your expectations. Whether you have complete architectural plans or rough concepts you’d like to develop, we’re here to make it happen.
Start building your new home today
We would love to speak with you about your dream home.