Deck of skogspire home built by Northern Rivers builder Cape Byron Building Co

$15,000 Grants Now Available to Build in Lismore: Here’s What You Need to Know

Posted by Rob Robertson on

Have you heard the news of the new Lismore housing grant and you are now looking for a builder in the Northern Rivers to hep you? Now is the perfect time to act and give us a call!

If you haven’t heard, Lismore City Council has just launched an exciting $15,000 Housing Grant Program. This will help residents, landowners and housing providers kickstart construction of new homes within the Lismore Local Government Area (LGA). This initiative is aimed at boosting housing affordability, diversity, and flood-resilient development across the region.

Who Is Eligible?

This grant program is available to a wide range of people and housing projects. You might be eligible if you’re:

  • Building on recently purchased land

  • A first home buyer trying to make the numbers work

  • Rebuilding or relocating a home due to flood impacts

  • Adding a second dwelling like a granny flat, tiny home, or dual occupancy

  • A developer or community housing group building affordable rental homes

There are six grant categories in total, covering everything from single dwellings to larger multi-unit affordable housing projects.

How It Works

  • Grants are first-come, first-served from a total $1.2 million pool (with nearly half already allocated as of the 15th May 2025)

  • You’ll receive the $15,000 grant upon completion of your build, once your Occupation Certificate is issued

  • You must submit your Development Application or CDC via the NSW Planning Portal before you can apply

For full eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit the Lismore City Council website.

How We Can Help You Build in Lismore

At Cape Byron Building Co, we’re passionate about helping people build smarter, more affordable homes across the Northern Rivers — and this grant is a fantastic opportunity to take that next step.

Whether you’re:

  • Rebuilding on flood-affected land

  • Planning a tiny home or dual occupancy on your existing property

  • A first-time home builder

  • Looking to develop a small-scale investment property

—we can guide you through the process from planning to completion, including working with council requirements and the NSW Planning Portal.

Our team has extensive experience navigating local council processes and creating high-quality homes suited to our climate, community, and budget. We also specialise in eco-friendly prefab homes through Scandi Homes, perfect for those looking to build sustainably and efficiently.

Lismore housing grant builder Northern Rivers sample eco friendly home scandi
One of Scandi Homes designs

Why Act Now?

With a growing demand for housing in the Lismore area and limited funding available, this grant won’t last long. If you’re considering a new build or secondary dwelling, now is the time to lock in your plans and secure your spot.

Reach out to us today to discuss your project ideas, eligibility, and how we can help bring your new home to life — with the bonus of a $15,000 head start.

Contact us now to arrange a consultation and find out how we can help you make the most of the Lismore Housing Grant Program.

A luxury inground pool with 2 deckchairs in the water

Transform Your Backyard with a Custom Inground Pool by Northern Rivers’ Trusted Pool Builders

Posted by Rob Robertson on

Looking for the Best Pool Companies in the Northern Rivers?

When it comes to creating your dream backyard oasis, you need more than just a pool builder—you need a local expert who understands the Northern Rivers lifestyle and climate.  At Cape Byron Building Co, we specialise in designing and constructing custom inground pools across Byron Bay and the greater Northern Rivers region.

Whether you’re after a sleek modern plunge pool, a resort-style family pool, or a pool that complements your eco-conscious home, we deliver high-quality, bespoke solutions that integrate seamlessly into your outdoor living space.

Restored 1880s homestead Aurora House featuring a lap pool and the ocean in the distance in the Byron Bay hinterland
Aurora House, Byron Bay

Why Choose Cape Byron Building Co for Your Inground Pool?

As a trusted pool company in the Northern Rivers, we bring years of hands-on experience, design know-how, and a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship. Our founder, Rob, works closely with each client to ensure your vision becomes a reality—on time and on budget.

We handle the entire process from concept to completion, including:

  • Custom pool design tailored to your site and lifestyle

  • Excavation and concreting

  • Landscaping integration

  • Tiling, coping, and finishes

  • Pool compliance and certification

With a deep understanding of the local terrain and council regulations, we take the stress out of pool construction and ensure the finished product adds real value to your home.

A hot tub off the deck installed by Cape Byron Building Co
A hot tub installation at Coorabell

Types of Inground Pools 

No two homes—or homeowners—are the same. That’s why we offer a variety of pool styles, including:

  • Lap Pools: Ideal for narrow spaces or fitness-focused households.

  • Resort-Style Pools: Think sun lounges, shallow lounging areas, and water features—perfect for entertaining.

  • Natural Pools: Eco-friendly pools that use plants and filtration systems for a chemical-free swim.

  • Infinity Pools: A striking visual feature, especially suited to sloped or elevated sites.

  • Plunge Pools & Spas: Compact, luxurious, and ideal for relaxation in smaller spaces.

Add Value, Beauty, and Lifestyle to Your Home

A professionally designed and built pool doesn’t just look amazing—it enhances your everyday living. Imagine cooling off on a hot summer’s day, hosting weekend barbecues with friends and family, or enjoying a sunrise swim with the birdsong of the Byron hinterland in the background.

We work with you to ensure your new pool becomes a natural extension of your home—whether it’s a centrepiece for entertaining or a private retreat for relaxation.

A timber curved bridge over a lap pool installed by pool company northern rivers Cape Byron Building co
Bridge over your pool anyone?

Servicing Byron Bay and the Wider Northern Rivers Region

We proudly build pools in Byron Bay, Bangalow, Mullumbimby, Lennox Head, Ballina, Ocean Shores, and surrounding areas. Wherever you’re based in the Northern Rivers, we’ll come to you for a site inspection and custom quote.

Let’s Build Your Dream Pool

Ready to upgrade your backyard and add long-term value to your home? Contact Cape Byron Building Co—your local experts in inground concrete pools in the Northern Rivers.

We’ll help you design a space that’s not only beautiful and functional but perfectly suited to the laid-back lifestyle of this unique region.

Some compliance information for pools in NSW

Vikendell Scandi home

Northern Rivers Custom Eco-Friendly and Affordable Homes- the ‘Vikendell’

Posted by Rob Robertson on

Vikendell: A Modern Sanctuary by Scandi Homes & Cape Byron Building Co

Vikendell Scandi home
The Vikendell Scandi home

At Cape Byron Building Co, we are dedicated to delivering sustainable, energy-efficient, affordable and beautifully designed homes that harmonise with the natural environment. As an official provider and builder of Scandi Homes in the Northern Rivers of NSW, we bring cutting-edge prefab timber homes to Australian families. One of our standout designs is the Vikendell, a home that effortlessly blends contemporary architecture with classic warmth.

Vikendell: Where Modern Meets Nature

The Vikendell design is inspired by Scandinavian principles of simplicity, functionality, and connection to nature. The name itself, derived from the words ‘vike’ (bay or cove) and ‘dell’ (a small valley), reflects its seamless integration with coastal and rural landscapes alike.

Featuring a striking pitched roof, high cathedral ceilings, and an open, airy layout, Vikendell is a stunning yet practical choice for families who desire both modern elegance and a tranquil retreat. The extensive use of natural timber and sleek grey siding creates a balanced, inviting exterior that complements various landscapes, from lush hinterlands to coastal settings.

Bathroom, Vikendell Scandi home

Key Features of Vikendell:

  • High Cathedral Ceilings – Enhancing space and openness
  • Abundance of Natural Light – Large windows frame breathtaking views and flood the home with sunlight
  • Generously Sized Kitchen & Pantry – Perfect for home cooks and entertainers
  • Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living – A large alfresco area connects the home to nature
  • Naturally Insulated Mass Timber Walls – Providing excellent thermal efficiency and sustainability
  • Sound-Reducing Walls & Windows – Ensuring peace and tranquillity inside the home
  • Double or Triple-Glazed German Windows – Enhancing insulation, comfort, and energy efficiency
  • Prefab Components Built in Just 10 Days – Rapid construction with minimal environmental impact

Master bedroom with green feature wall

Customisation & Personalisation

One of the standout aspects of Vikendell is its versatile design, allowing homeowners to tailor the home to their unique tastes. You can:

  • Customise the cladding, paint, or stain in colours of your choice
  • Expand outdoor patio and decking size for enhanced outdoor living
  • Modify the internal layout to better suit your lifestyle

This flexibility ensures that every Vikendell home is as unique as the family that resides in it.

Kitchen area of Vikendell home

Why Choose a Scandi Home with Cape Byron Building Co?

  1. Sustainability First – Built with sustainably sourced European timber, our homes minimise environmental impact while promoting a healthier indoor living space.
  2. Precision Engineering – Using state-of-the-art German manufacturing technology, we deliver homes with exceptional quality and accuracy.
  3. Faster Build Times – Prefabricated components streamline the construction process, reducing build times from months to days.
  4. Energy Efficiency – Naturally insulated walls and high-performance windows keep your home comfortable year-round, reducing energy costs.
  5. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living – Designed to embrace the beauty of nature while maintaining modern functionality.
Floor plan Vikendell home
Vikendell floor plan

Step-by-Step Building Process

We make the home-building experience smooth and stress-free with a well-structured approach:

  1. Initial Consultation – Discuss your project details, budget, and site considerations with our team.
  2. Site Inspection – Assess access, slope, vegetation, and services to ensure a smooth build process.
  3. Preliminary Plans & Cost Estimation – Create customised plans based on your vision and budget.
  4. Council Approvals – Manage documentation and compliance for smooth approval.
  5. Manufacture & Construction – Prefabrication and site preparation begin, with assembly completed in just days.
  6. Final Fit-Outs & Inspection – Interior finishing and quality checks to ensure a perfect home.

Living area Vikendell home

Your Dream Eco Home Awaits

At Cape Byron Building Co, we believe in homes that reflect modern sustainability, functionality, and timeless beauty. The Vikendell is the perfect balance of contemporary architecture and natural harmony, providing a comfortable, energy-efficient sanctuary for families who value both style and sustainability.

Ready to build your dream home? Contact us today to learn more about the Vikendell and other Scandi Homes designs, and start your journey towards sustainable living.

Scandi Skogspire home

Northern Rivers Custom Eco-Friendly and Affordable Homes- the ‘Skogspire’

Posted by Rob Robertson on

Northern Rivers eco-friendly, pre-fab homes with Scandi Homes and Cape Byron Building Co

Featuring the ‘Skogspire’ design. Check out our blog section for other designs!

At Cape Byron Building Co, we are passionate about delivering high-quality, sustainable, and stylish homes that align with modern eco-conscious living. As an official provider and builder of Scandi Homes in the Northern Rivers of NSW, we bring innovative, energy-efficient, and beautifully designed timber homes to Australian families. Northern rivers eco-friendly pre-fab homes

Interior of skogspire Scandi home
Living area of Skogspire Scandi home

Scandi Homes: A Revolution in Sustainable Living

Scandi Homes offers a unique approach to home construction, blending contemporary design, sustainability, and efficiency. These homes are built with mass timber (LGL), a premium material that is both structurally sound and environmentally friendly. Each home is meticulously crafted with pre-cut, load-bearing components that are manufactured using state-of-the-art German technology, ensuring precision, durability, and speed in construction.

One of the standout benefits of Scandi Homes is the prefabrication process. The precisely cut timber components simplify the building process, enabling structures to be erected quickly—often within just a few days. This means less waste, reduced environmental impact, and a streamlined construction timeline.

Introducing Skogspire: The Expandable Eco Home

One of the most exciting designs we build at Cape Byron Building Co is the Skogspire—a home that grows with you. Derived from the Scandinavian words for ‘forest’ (skog) and ‘growth’ (spire), this design is perfect for young families looking to start their homeownership journey affordably while allowing for future expansion.

Deck of skogspire home
Deck of Skogspire Scandi home

Key Features of Skogspire:

  • Expandable Home Design – Start small and add extra rooms as your family grows
  • Mass Timber Walls – Naturally insulated for energy efficiency and a healthier indoor environment
  • Large Windows – Double or triple-glazed German-engineered windows for natural light and noise reduction
  • Cathedral Ceilings – Enhancing the sense of space and openness
  • Generously Sized Kitchen & Pantry – Designed for functionality and comfort
  • Prefab Components Built in Just 10 Days – Faster and more efficient construction

Starting at approximately $300,000, Skogspire offers a 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom, open-plan living design that provides a strong foundation for the future. As financial circumstances change, homeowners can add ‘Future Mods,’ seamlessly integrating extra bedrooms or living spaces over time.

Floorplan of Skogspire Scandi Home
Floorplan of Skogspire Scandi home

Why Choose a Scandi Home with Cape Byron Building Co?

  1. Sustainability First – Our homes are made from sustainably sourced European timber,  which reduces carbon footprints and creates a healthy living environment.
  2. Precision Engineering – Every component is designed for efficiency and longevity, with fully automated timber machining technology.
  3. Faster Build Times – Prefabricated components reduce construction timelines from months to days.
  4. Energy Efficiency – Naturally insulated walls and high-performance glazing improve thermal efficiency, keeping homes comfortable year-round.
  5. Customisable & Expandable – Tailor your home to your needs with modular expansion options.

 

The Building Process: From Concept to Completion

We make the home-building experience seamless and stress-free with a structured process:

  1. Initial Consultation – We discuss your vision, budget, and site requirements.
  2. Site Inspection – Assessing access, terrain, and environmental factors.
  3. Preliminary Plans & Cost Estimate – Designing your home and preparing for council approval.
  4. Council Approvals – Handling documentation and amendments as required.
  5. Manufacture & Construction – Prefabrication begins while site preparation is underway. Once delivered, we can assemble your home in days.
  6. Finishing Touches – Internal fittings, fixtures, and final inspections ensure everything meets the highest standards.

Your Dream Eco Home Awaits

At Cape Byron Building Co, we believe in homes that reflect modern sustainability, functionality, and beauty. With Scandi Homes, you can own a high-quality, energy-efficient home. Whether you’re looking for a compact and expandable home like Skogspire or a custom design tailored to your lifestyle, we’re here to bring your vision to life.

Contact us today to learn more about our Scandi Homes range and how we can help you build a sustainable future.

Restored 1880s homestead Aurora House featuring a lap pool and the ocean in the distance in the Byron Bay hinterland

Byron Bay build- an 1880s restoration

Posted by Rob Robertson on

A Byron Bay Restoration

1880s homestead in Byron Bay
The original homestead in the 1880s Byron Bay hinterland

Restoring history is a privilege. But restoring one of the very first homesteads in the Byron Bay hinterland, “Tyrone”—originally built in 1881—was an honour for our team, beyond words! At Cape Byron Building Co., we were entrusted with the delicate task of breathing new life into this remarkable piece of history, whilst preserving its architectural soul.

The homestead’s new owners, a visionary couple from Sydney, had a dream. To not only restore the home to its former grandeur, but to elevate it into an elegant, luxurious retreat. A place where history and sophistication blend seamlessly. Just before the project commenced, they were married on the property, making its restoration even more sentimental. Today, this restored beauty stands as a prestigious boutique wedding venue, also hosting corporate retreats and family gatherings, allowing others to experience the love and warmth embedded in its walls.

The Challenges of Restoring the Past

Restoring a 143-year-old homestead is never a straightforward task. Over the years, various small-scale renovations and extensions had altered its original structure. Our first mission was to carefully remove these additions and strip the homestead back to its authentic form. This required immense attention to detail to ensure we honoured the era’s architectural integrity while also reinforcing the structure for modern longevity.

starting work on the old homestead
Starting work

One of the toughest challenges we faced was the land itself. The homestead sits on bedrock, which made excavation for the new pool, underground wiring, and plumbing a formidable task.

Mother Nature also played her part in testing our team. Throughout the build, we endured extreme weather conditions, from horizontal rain to wind gusts exceeding 100 km/hr.

Digging foundations for the restoration

Adding to the adventure, we encountered a few unexpected residents—approximately twelve very settled snakes who weren’t keen on vacating their century-old home. Despite multiple relocations, they continued to make their presence known throughout the build! There were also a dozen green frogs very happily living in one of the disused toilets!

Green frogs in toilet
Very happy green frogs in the toilet

Key Features & Craftsmanship

One of the most remarkable elements of the restoration was the historic kitchen fireplace. Rather than replacing it, we meticulously restored the original structure, preserving its character while ensuring it met modern safety standards. Above the roofline, we rebuilt it entirely, mirroring the era’s design and craftsmanship. An additional standout feature is the breathtaking outdoor fireplace—a brand-new addition that feels as though it has always belonged.

rear of stone fireplace with outdoor bath
Rear of outdoor fireplace
stone fireplace
Cosy outdoor stone fireplace

To ensure authenticity, we enlisted a specialist team, whose lead stonemason even brought his retired father out of retirement to construct it in the traditional style of the period. Once completed, the deck and roof structure were carefully designed and built around it, making it the heart of the outdoor entertaining space.

Restored 1880s homestead
The end result- ‘Aurora House’ by Cape Byron Building Co

A Testament to Excellence

Through dedication, expert craftsmanship, and an unrelenting commitment to honouring the past, Cape Byron Building Co. has transformed this historic homestead into a luxurious retreat, ready to be cherished for generations to come. It stands not just as a home but as a legacy—a true reflection of love, history, and masterful building. The original “Tyrone” is now “Aurora House” and can be booked for weddings, reunions, photo shoots, holiday stays or corporate retreats.

If you’d like to talk with Cape Byron Building Co about your new build, renovation or restoration, get in touch via our contact page.

Navigating the Challenges of Building in Byron Bay in 2025

Posted by Rob Robertson on

Building in Byron Bay has always been a unique experience. But in 2025, it comes with its own set of challenges. From navigating strict environmental regulations to managing material delays, the process requires careful planning and adaptability. Byron Bay’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant community are part of what makes this region so special. However, they also mean builders must adhere to stringent guidelines to protect the area’s character and environment. At Byron Bay Building Company, we’re well-versed in the complexities of local building codes. We ensure that every project not only complies with regulations, but also respects the natural surroundings that make this region so desirable.

Another key challenge this year has been the rising cost of materials and labor shortages. Like many parts of Australia, the Northern Rivers region has felt the impact of supply chain disruptions and increased demand for skilled tradespeople. These factors can create delays and put pressure on budgets, but our small, dedicated team works hard to minimise these impacts. With over a decade of experience in the industry, we’ve built strong relationships with local suppliers and contractors, helping us secure quality materials and maintain reliable timelines for our clients.

Whether you’re dreaming of a new home, a stunning deck to make the most of Byron’s outdoor lifestyle, or a cosy granny flat, the building process can feel daunting. That’s where we come in.  At Byron Bay Building Company, our team is here to guide you through the journey with clear communication and a focus on reducing stress. If you’d like to learn more about how we can bring your vision to life, get in touch with Rob and the team today—we’d love to hear from you and discuss how we can help make your dream build a reality.

Click here for Byron Shire Council Development Application help.

Click here to speak with us about your new build or renovation!