Stefano's DIY KIT HOMES OXFORD
We would like to congratulate our customer Stefano for selecting the Kit Homes Oxford design for his project near Campbells Creek, VIC.
Why Choose iBuild
A Dual-Purpose Build: Stefano’s Kit Homes Oxford
Located in Castlemaine, Victoria – a historic town in the central goldfields – Stefano’s project started with a clear plan for a recently purchased property that came with a little extra land.
“We recently purchased a house in Castlemaine with a bit of land, and the idea is to have extra space for the family to visit. But we’d also like to rent it out as a holiday let while we’re not using it – to generate a little bit of passive income while heading towards our retirement years.”
Stefano is looking to add a secondary dwelling to the property – a flexible space that not only welcomes visiting family, but doubles as a short-stay rental in between.
The Hands-On Approach
Stefano didn’t come to this as a newcomer. Having taken on some projects as an owner builder in Queensland, he knew he wanted a project he could realistically bring together himself, and he researched the options carefully before deciding.
“I was looking through the various options online to build something small and simple that had all the basic elements we were looking for, and that’s cost-effective. I looked at how other people had taken on prefabricated and kit home projects, and made comparisons – then went onto the website to look at the models, the designs, the costs, and the complexity of doing it ourselves in relation to our skill set.”
That research narrowed the field quickly. For Stefano, the decision came down to two things lining up: a cost that worked, and a build that suited his own capabilities.
“Cost is probably the biggest one, but it also marries in with my own skill set in being able to bring this thing together as an owner-builder. It’s not complicated – the materials are fairly straightforward, and it offers options, like the ability to change the ceiling height, to customise it a little more.”
Getting Underway
With the brief set, Stefano chose the Oxford – a simple, well-resolved design that suits both the space and his budget. The layout fits what he needs: a right-sized dwelling that works for visiting family and short-stay guests alike, and that he can realistically bring together himself as an owner-builder. He opted for a timber frame, with iBuild’s ability to offer both timber and steel meaning the choice could reflect his own brief and preferences.
Working with the iBuild team, his project is now moving through the design phase. As an owner-builder, Stefano has a supportive team helping map the steps through approvals and delivery ahead.
