Frequently Asked Questions
Where in the Northern Rivers does Tallow Projects build?
Tallow Projects builds across the entire Northern Rivers region of NSW, including Byron Bay, Bangalow, Suffolk Park, Brunswick Heads, Mullumbimby, Lennox Head, Kingscliff, Cabarita Beach, Pottsville, Casuarina and Murwillumbah. As a local builder based in the region, we understand the coastal climate, hinterland terrain and council requirements unique to each area.
What types of projects does Tallow Projects take on?
We specialise in three core areas: custom new homes, high-end architectural builds, and luxury renovations and extensions. Whether it's a knock-down rebuild on a Byron Bay block, an architect-designed home in Kingscliff or a second-storey extension in Cabarita, every project is handled directly by our team — no project-builder shortcuts.
What makes Tallow Projects different from a project builder?
Project builders work from set plans and standard inclusions. Tallow Projects builds one-off homes designed around your site, lifestyle and budget. You get direct access to the builder, transparent pricing, premium materials, and a small number of projects on the books at any time — so your build gets full attention from start to finish
Can you work with my architect, or do you provide design?
Both. We work seamlessly with leading Northern Rivers architects and interior designers on architect-led projects, and we can recommend trusted design partners if you don't have one. Bringing us in during the design phase usually saves time and money because we cost-check buildability before plans are finalised.
Does Tallow Projects do renovations and extensions?
Yes. Luxury renovations and extensions are a major part of what we do — from second-storey additions and ground-floor reconfigurations to whole-of-home transformations and heritage-sensitive renovations. We've completed extension projects across Kingscliff, Cabarita Beach, Byron Bay and Pottsville.
Do you build custom new homes from scratch?
Yes. Custom new homes are our core service. We work with your architect (or recommend one from our network) to deliver a fully bespoke home tailored to your site, lifestyle and budget. Every detail, from foundations to fixtures, is selected with you and built by our own team across Byron Bay, Kingscliff and the wider Northern Rivers.
Do you offer fixed-price or cost-plus contracts?
Both — we recommend whichever suits the project. Fixed-price contracts give you full cost certainty upfront and suit clearly-scoped builds where finishes are locked in. Cost-plus contracts work better for complex renovations, architect-led builds with evolving specifications, or projects where transparency on actual costs matters more than a single capped number.
What does the Tallow Projects build process look like from start to finish?
Our process runs in five stages: (1) initial consultation to understand your brief and site, (2) detailed cost assessment with transparent pricing, (3) contract — either fixed-price or cost-plus depending on what suits the project, (4) construction with regular site meetings and weekly progress updates, and (5) handover with full documentation and our post-completion support.
What industry memberships and credentials does Tallow Projects hold?
Tallow Projects holds a current NSW Builders Licence 453884C and is a member of Housing Industry Association. We carry full Home Building Compensation Fund Insurance, public liability and contract works insurance on every project, and meet all SafeWork NSW and Fair Trading requirements.
Who is Lachlan and what's his background?
Lachlan is the founder of Tallow Projects and a second-generation builder. He grew up around residential construction and brings decades of family craftsmanship to every project. His focus is on small, high-touch project loads — running each build personally rather than handing it to a site supervisor — which is why clients deal directly with him from first conversation to handover.
When was Tallow Projects established?
Tallow Projects was established in 2019. Since then we've delivered custom homes, knock-down rebuilds, architectural projects and high-end commercial fit-outs across the Northern Rivers, including completed projects in Byron Bay, Kingscliff and Uki.
What's the Tallow Projects philosophy?
We believe a custom home should feel custom from the first conversation, not just on the floor plan. That means a small project list, the builder on the tools and on site, transparent pricing, premium materials, and treating every client like the only client. The result is a home built around how you actually live — not a template adapted to fit.
What areas do you service?
We proudly service the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, working across key coastal and hinterland areas including Kingscliff, Cabarita Beach, Pottsville, Byron Bay and Murwillumbah. As a local builder, we have a strong understanding of the unique site conditions, coastal environments and council requirements across the Northern Rivers.
What services do you offer?
We offer a complete range of building services to bring your vision to life. From custom home builds and architectural new homes to renovations and extensions, our experienced team can handle projects of all sizes.
How do I get started?
Getting started is simple. Reach out through our contact form or send us an email lachlan@tallowprojects.com.au— we’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.