WELCOME!

NEWS

ABOUT US

NATASHA LEVAN.

Natasha has had extensive experience within the building and design industry for the last 18 years. Natasha began her career with a medium size architectural firm in South Melbourne in 1994. Since then she has gained a wealth of experience on many types of building projects ranging from commercial and institutional work through to residential, multi storey apartment projects and interior design. After working at Englehart Homes for five years she discovered her passion for residential design. Since 2003, Natasha has been operating Levan Design as a small and personalised residential building design service.

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SERVICES

PROJECTS

TESTIMONIALS

• 01.

  Jane - Montmorency

  "We wanted to extend and renovate our house. Natasha helped turn our vision" - continue...

• 02.

  Colin & Debra - Eltham

  "Just a short note to express our appreciation for your contribution in designing our new home" - continue...

• 03.

  Shane & Sam - Hurstbridge

  "We couldn’t be happier with the work Natasha Levan has done for us. From the moment we" - continue...

QUESTIONS

• What is the process for commencing my design?
• How much does it cost?
• How long does the process take?
• Can I be an Owner builder?
• Can I bring a design to you that I like and get you to re-draw it?
• Do you submit our completed plans to council?
• Do we need to get a soil test done?
• Will we need the services of an engineer?
• What is 3D Rendering?

ANSWERS

CONTACT INFO

LEVAN DESIGN

84 Silver Street, ELTHAM, 3095.

Mobile:0418 586 490

EMAIL

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Bush fire Planning

Bush fire planning and building provisions ensure that bush fire protection measures are included for new development in areas identified as a bush fire risk.
The Bush fire Management Overlay (BMO) includes a statutory provision in planning schemes and a map showing where the provisions apply to specific land.

The BMO is intended:

• * to assist to strengthen community resilience to bush fire

• * to identify areas where the bush fire hazard requires specified bush fire protection measures for subdivision and buildings and works to be implemented.

• * to ensure that the location, design and construction of development considers the need to implement bush fire protection measures, and.

• * to ensure that development does not proceed unless the risk to life and property from bush fire can be reduced to an acceptable level.

The BMO allows applicants to see how their development will be assessed in regard to matters such as building siting, defendable space, on-site water supply and emergency vehicle access.

For further information, visit DPCD's planning and building for bush fire protection, which includes their planning and building for bush fire protection fact sheet, read CFA publications and Council's BMO advice sheet

Swimming pools and spas

New swimming pools in Victoria now require four-sided pool fencing as the Building Code of Australia 2010 came into effect on 1 May 2010.
Drowning is the most common cause of preventable death for children under five in Victoria. Pool fencing reduces the risk of drowning to about one quarter of that of drowning in an unfenced pool. While pool fencing is demonstrated as being effective, parents or other adults should always supervise young children in a swimming pool.

Any excavation or structure capable of containing a depth of water exceeding 300mm and which is principally used for swimming, wading or paddling is classed as a swimming pool.
This includes inflatable pools, temporary pools, concrete and fiberglass inground, above ground pools, bathing or wading pool or spa.
Dams, lakes, fish ponds or fountains do not require the installation of pool safety barriers.

For more information read What you need to know about Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Barriers (1.02MB)

Buildings should not go up in smoke

Smoke alarms are compulsory and must be installed in every residential building on or near the ceiling of every storey. The Building Regulations state that smoke alarms must meet the Australian Standard AS 3786-1993. You will find a range of complying models at most electrical appliance outlets or hardware stores.

For smoke alarms to be effective, it is essential they be maintained. At the very least you should:

• * Check that your smoke alarm is working by depressing the button on its outside.

• * Replace your smoke alarm battery on an annual basis (if the battery is lithium ion, every ten years).

• * If your smoke alarm emits a warning sound, a high-pitched single beep every 30 seconds, replace its battery.

• * Clean your alarm regularly to remove dust particles.

• * Familiarise yourself with the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines.

Dividing Fences

A fence between properties is usually in joint ownership, both parties need to be in agreement prior to any alterations or additions. A building permit is required for any fence exceeding 2 metres in height and whenever it is proposed to vary from the Building Regulations through the Consent and Report process. Irrespective of whether a building permit is required or not, all fences must comply with the Building Regulation. For detailed information on fences please contact either the Building Commission on 1300 815 127 or your local Council's Building Unit.

Copies of the Fencing Act 1968 can be viewed on line at Australasian Legal Information Institute website.

If you require a higher fence, a gate, or any other variation to a standard fence, you will be required to pay the full cost of the variation, as well as a half share of a standard fence.

All fencing works must be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the Fences Act 1968, including a signed agreement, prior to authorisation of a contractor to commence the works

Decks, Balconies, Balustrades & Handrails

Inspection statistics reveal that many rotting balconies and decks could cause injury or even death in the event of a collapse.

The following tips will help you maintain decks and balconies and, importantly, the safety of those who use them:

• * Look for any compression or deformation of the supporting posts, beams or joists. Decayed timber will feel soft and spongy.

• * Check underneath decks or balconies and look for deterioration, particularly where timber members join.

• * Make sure the deck or balcony structure is properly fixed to the building.

• * Check the base of timber posts for rot & brackets and bolts for signs of rust.

• * Make sure water does not pool at the base of a post or wall support.

• * Clean your alarm regularly to remove dust particles.

• * Check handrails and balustrades to ensure they are not rotted, corroded, loose or unstable.

• * Be aware certain timbers are more susceptible to external environments, requiring frequent inspections.

The Building Commission provides a factsheet on decks.

Energy Efficiency

New Homes

The latest change was on 1 May 2011 which means that all new homes must have:

• * 6-Star energy efficient building fabric, PLUS

• * water saving measures such as AAA taps and fittings and a pressure reduction valve, PLUS

• * either a water tank OR a solar hot water system.

New Homes

If you are intending to renovate or extend your home or re-locate an existing home after 1 May 2011, the design of your extension or renovation will need to take into account the new 6 Star Standard. Minor renovations or maintenance projects and non structural works may not be affected by the new requirements.

While Councils endeavour to keep this information up to date, its always worth checking with the Building Commission website or by calling them on 1300 360 380 for the latest details on energy efficiency requirements..

Owner-Builders

A new updated Owner-builder Application Kit and Checklist is now available.

Download an Owner-builder Application Kit.
Download an Owner-builder Checklist.

Also very helpful is the hints and tips for being an owner-builder publication

Hints and Tips for being an owner-builder.

5 Good Reasons to Extend

Why go through all the heartache of moving house when you can unlock the real value of the home you already live in? Extending has become the new moving and here are the top 5 reasons why.

• 1. Selling a house at the moment is difficult. Extend now to fit your lifestyle and your increased living space will be a real asset when the housing market opens up again.

• 2. Your home is full of potential just waiting to be unlocked. An extension lets you make the best use of your property area.

• 3. You’ve built a life where you live already. Why lose that by moving when you can build an extension instead?

• 4. It’s cost effective. You get the same increased space as you would with a move for a fraction of the price.

• 5. It lets you design exactly what you want. Moving house just means going into somewhere bigger that is almost, but not quite, what you are looking for. When you extend, you can make your space perfect.

If you are currently looking into extending your home please take the time to look at some of the before and after shots of some of my renovation/extension designs.

Best Renovations & Additions Magazine

The very best of the best designs from abode... Yes a LeVan Design renovation has made it in to this years abode annual magazine of best designs.

Gary Takle (Editor) -"There is something very satisfying about a project that takes something old and neglected and reshapes it into something more practical - a new work of art. Renovating a house is a great example of this, an opportunity where you can let your creativity shine.
So many old Australian house designs were inherited from our British ancestors. They were designed for a climate and time that may have been practical in 18th Century England, but does not suit our Australian climate or way of life today.
Renovating a house allows you to express your design preferences, your ingenuity and your ability to create something you love to live in - something you’re proud to call your own. I’m not suggesting you go out on your own and do all the design work and construction yourself. Rather, I recommend you employ experts who do this all day, every day. Enlisting a professional allows you to direct the project according to your own tastes and functional needs, while ensuring that everything is carried out to the best possible standard.
My aim with this publication is to provide you, the reader, with engaging homes and exciting concepts that will help you to find the perfect renovation designer and achieve an amazing result of your own."

Concept Design Drawings

If you are looking for ideas or already have something in mind, we can turn that into a concept design. This will usually include an overall site plan, conceptual floor plans and elevations. These drawings will be a good starting point to develop further or to obtain some initial pricing estimates from tradesmen or a builder

3D Renderings

A 3D rendering is a three dimension drawing that will give an accurate depiction of the concept design. This tool is useful for clients that find it difficult to visualise 2D working drawings.

Working Drawings

These drawings contain all the detail and information that are required to obtain a building or planning permit and for a builder will use to build from and quote off. A set of working drawings will normally include a site plan, floor plans, existing conditions and demolition plan, elevations, sections and details as required.

Planning Permits

We can arrange all the required documentation to lodge a planning permit and take care of the application process. Some clients like to oversee the application process project themselves, while others prefer to leave that to our expertise. At Levan Design we are flexible and can work with you as to the level of input that you require.

Building Permits

This can be handled in a number of ways and will depend on the situation and the client’s requirements.

• 1. We can arrange all the required documentation to lodge a building permit and take care of the application process.

• 2. Some clients like to oversee the application process project themselves when acting as an owner builder.

• 3. Your nominated builder can also arrange the building permit.

Unit Developments

We work with the client to establish a brief for the subject site and advise on how many units can be achieved for the site and then implement that through the design process. We work closely with the local council to ensure a smooth planning process and ultimately an approved planning permit for the development. We have all out own consultants’ to assist with this process such as land surveyors, tree arborists, landscape designers, structural engineers, soil testing engineers and land management specialists.

Dual Occupancy Developments

This is an ideal way to turn a disused backyard into a profitable development. We work with the client to establish a brief for the subject site and advise on how this can be achieved for the site and then implement that through the design process. We work closely with the local council to ensure a smooth planning process and ultimately an approved planning permit for the development.

We have all out own consultants’ to assist with this process such as land surveyors, tree arborists, landscape designers, structural engineers, soil testing engineers and land management specialists.

Extensions & Renovations Design

We take your brief to establish what your requirements are and then prepare concept design drawings as a starting point. This will require the existing dwelling to be check measured along with a site analysis undertaken. This will usually include an overall site plan, conceptual floor plans and elevations. Once the final design is agreed upon, then the working drawings stage can commence. At this stage the following may be required; soil testing, structural engineering design & six star energy rating.

New Homes Design

We take your brief to establish what your requirements are and then prepare concept design drawings as a starting point. This will require the subject site to be surveyed to establish the land contours and features along with a site analysis undertaken. This will usually include an overall site plan, conceptual floor plans and elevations. Once the final design is agreed upon, then the working drawings stage can commence. At this stage the following may be required; soil testing, structural engineering design & six star energy rating.

Interior Design

We can assist you with designing your internal spaces to achieve the desire aesthetic. We offer specialist advice and services for owners, builders and developers of new homes, renovations, developments and specifications. This can include colour selections, materials and finishes along with lighting.

Builder/Trade Recommendations

Over the many years being in this industry you know the right people/companies to deal with. We have established good strong relationships with all trades and suppliers to the building industry ranging from builders all the way through to appliance suppliers. We only recommend those that provide the highest level of service and products.

We will be listing all the recommended services/suppliers on a dedicated page but as always we are happy to recommend the right people for the job whilst in consultation of your design.

...continued

Natasha has an Associate Diploma in Architectural Drafting, is a Member of the Building Designs Association of Victoria – BDAV and is a Registered Building Practitioner of the Victorian Building Authority.

Natasha’s passion for art and architecture along with ability to interpret the clients desires are reflected in the outstanding outcomes that are achieved and the extensive list of very satisfied clients’.

LEVAN DESIGN SERVICES

LeVan Design provides a complete residential design service to suit you individual needs and requirements. Whether it is just a small extension or a large new home, LeVan Design can provide you with everything you need to make the process smooth and hassle free.

       

As a full member of the Building Commission you can be assured that all work done and completed by LeVan Design meets all the regulatory requirements.

Who are the Building Commission?

The Building Commission provides industry leadership and regulates building quality. It is a statutory authority that oversees the building control system in Victoria. They ensure the safety, liveability and sustainability of our built environment.
The Commission does this by bringing vision, innovation and leadership to the Victorian building industry. They oversee building legislation, regulate building practices, advise Government, and provide services to industry and consumers.

Why must a Registered Building Practitioner be part of your building plans?

Because only Registered Building Practitioners meet the legal requirements to carry out domestic building work over $5,000 in Victoria. You can be confident Registered Building Practitioners have the qualifications, knowledge and experience, and domestic building insurance.

To find out more, please visit: www.buildingcommission.com.au

Using a Building Designer

I am proud to be a Member of the building designers association of Victoria. The BDAV is a respected, active industry body representing more than 1,100 building design professionals who, like myself, offer a broad depth of experience and expertise to meet our clients’ needs. By using a BDAV Member, you have the security of knowing that you are engaging the services of a professional who is committed to providing the right solution for your project.

In order to prepare design and construction documentation, building designers are required to be registered under the relevant Acts, and to carry the required Professional indemnity insurance. Further, because BDAV Members regularly participate in the BDAV’s Continuing Professional development program, we continually update our knowledge on a broad range of issues that may impact your design, including changes to regulations, environmental issues, technical matters, and much more. BDAV Members can produce the design for your residential or commercial project, from a brief or a sketch you may have developed, or an idea you have in mind. You can be assured that your investment in the services of a BDAV Member will reap the return of a highly-successful building project.

For further information about why you should engage a BDAV Member, visit: www.bdav.org.au

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Jane - Montmorency

"We wanted to extend and renovate our house. Natasha helped turn our vision into a concept design and helped us with the process of getting initial builders' quotes. We then got detailed drawings from her and recommendations for a number of builders. Now, our house is finished and we love it. I would have no hesitation in recommending Levan Design for practical building and planning advice and affordable, workable plans."

Colin & Debra - Eltham

"Just a short note to express our appreciation for your contribution in designing our new home in Eltham. After having dealt with a number of Architects and designers in recent times we were somewhat disillusioned at the time and input it took [not to mention cost] to achieve our goals. After being referred to you and expressing our thoughts within a short period of time you produced a plan that fitted our requirements to a tee and arranged landscape plans that were again precisely what we requested. After submitting the plan to council the permit was forthcoming with next to no amendments. Both Deb and I were more than pleased with your ability to incorporate our ideas into your design after one short meeting."

Shane & Sam - Hurstbridge

"We couldn’t be happier with the work Natasha Levan has done for us. From the moment we met her, through the drafting of plans, council application period and now into construction, Natasha has shown a true interest in ‘our home’ and made us feel totally at ease with her professionalism and creative design.
I look back now and think “Gee, I’m surprised anybody took this job on. We really did present you with an extensive list of objectives.” We knew what we wanted in some ways but it took a real flare to bring it all together with a unique design that met all those objectives:"

• - The whole project would be built with us as owner builders.
• - Design a house to be built around an existing residence but where only the sub floor and a few walls would be kept.
• - We wanted a rammed earth façade (a method rarely used, never before by Natasha and yet she enthusiastically tackled the challenge)
• - We (family of 4) needed to be able to continue living in it, whilst the majority of work was going on.
• - We were working to a strict budget, both for the design and the construction.
• - We each had ideas to be incorporated into the plans but were looking for a lot of input from our designer. Changes and alterations were never any trouble.

David & Jane - East Melbourne

"Natasha has always supplied us with the utmost in professional service and has been a tremendous asset in helping us plan our renovation with both her creative input and technical skills."

Eades and Bergman Interior Design - Collingwood

"We use Levan Design for projects both large and small. Natasha is always very thorough, efficient and professional. Her interaction with our clients is warm and engaging. We look forward to continue using Natasha's services."

Mike & Helen - Eltham

"In all our dealings with Natasha she has been extremely helpful and reliable. Natasha had plenty of good idea's to offer us and with the many changes we seemed to give her she was very patient and flexible. Natasha was able to translate our, at times, sketchy idea's, accurately into working drawings. The end result being the wonderful house we are now living in.
I have already recommended Levan Design to others and will continue to do so.
Thank you again Natasha for giving us what we wanted and more."