Newcastle draftsman & building designer
House plans built around how you live - drawn for new homes, renovations, extensions and granny flats across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, the Hunter Valley, the Central Coast and down to Sydney. Architectural-quality design at a draftsman's price.
Get a QuoteOur Projects
Take a look at some of the projects MT Design Collective has produced, some concept designs to inspire and a gallery of sketches that give a peek into the minds of our drafters.
View all projects
We provide drafting and documenting services for full concept designs, home renovations, home additions, granny flats, rendering services, commercial/office floor layouts and interior drafting.
Our Process
From when you make an enquiry with us, all the way through to a finished build - here's a sneak peak at the basic steps along the way!
We are interested in meeting with you to discuss your wants and needs, as well as determining if we are the right team for you. After our meeting we can provide you with a quote.
If you are happy to proceed with us, you can sign our contract and make a deposit to set things in motion.
We will take site measurements if needed and gather all relevant and necessary information to provide you with a tailored scope of works and buildability.
We get to work on your new build or renovation and will share concepts at this stage, working toward a positive solution and a final design you love.
After we create your design, we will progress to Design Development drawings. Throughout this stage, we will liaise with the required council to have your project approved.
We provide you with a digital file of your construction plans that you can take to your builder or contractor to begin the construction of your home.
The MT Design Collective Story
Founder Matt Turner holds a Bachelor of Design (Architecture) from the University of Newcastle and more than 20 years in the building industry, a decade of it on the tools before he moved to design. He leads a team of designers and drafters, so you get real design thinking and one point of contact who knows your project, not a sole trader stretched across every job. That is the whole idea behind MT Design Collective, started in 2019: architectural-quality design at a draftsman's price, with the warmth, support and honest communication the process is usually missing.
What Our Clients Say
5.0 from 20 Google reviews
From the time we engaged MT Design Collective to draw up plans for our renovation they've been nothing short of amazing, dedicated and professional. We have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone.
Matt and his team were a pleasure to deal with - a straight shooter with no hidden surprises. High quality and technologically savvy, at the forefront of design for your dream home.
After one site visit Matt nailed exactly what we wanted, including a huge bathroom window overlooking Mount Sugarloaf. They looked after the whole process, including getting the CDC to build.
Matt helped design and draw up plans for a granny flat and explained the process from start to finish. He then assisted with approval and sourced comparable prices - he goes above and beyond.
Meet The MTDC Lounge — our podcast, and not your polished TED stage. It's the raw edge of building and design: Matt, Mitch and their guests trading honest, unfiltered stories on construction, council headaches and the everything in between. Dry humour, real talk, and the kind of insight that actually sticks.
Frequently asked questions
Draftsman, building designer or architect - and what it costs. The questions Newcastle homeowners ask us most. Still not sure? Get in touch.
How much does a draftsman cost in Newcastle?
Far less than an architect. Architect fees for a comparable home commonly run $16,000-$30,000 or more, while a draftsman or design-led studio is a fraction of that. We give you a fixed quote after our first meeting, with no hidden fees.
What's the difference between an architect, a building designer and a draftsman?
A draftsman prepares technical drawings and design plans; a design-led studio adds stronger design skill and shapes how the home works and feels; an architect suits complex, high-end builds at the highest fee. We sit in the design-led middle - architectural quality without the architect price tag.
Is a draftsman cheaper than an architect?
Yes, usually by a wide margin. Both work to the Building Code of Australia and council requirements, so for most home projects you get a buildable, council-ready result for a fraction of an architect's cost.
Do I need an architect, or is a draftsman enough?
For most renovations, extensions, granny flats and new homes, a draftsman or design-led studio is more than enough and better value. Architects make sense for complex or bespoke builds.
How do I choose a good draftsman?
Look for genuine design qualifications, insurance, real local project experience, clear documentation and someone who handles council for you. Ask to see credited projects and reviews.
What areas do you service?
Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, the Hunter Valley, the Central Coast and Port Stephens.
