Design & Build

Contemporary living.

SENSES is more than a home; it's a place to belong. Designed as a self-contained neighbourhood, it offers walking trails, parks, and future shopping and dining at the nearby Village Centre, all close to home. Enjoy community spaces that encourage connection and a slower pace of life. Just minutes from Mt Barker, SENSES combines modern convenience with the calm of nature, where life feels enriched.

Designed to endure.

SENSES is designed to be a neighbourhood of enduring appeal, an address that remains desirable for generations. To help protect this long-term value and support strong investment outcomes, carefully considered Design Guidelines have been created. These ensure all homes and landscapes complement their natural surrounds and contribute to a cohesive, high-quality streetscape.

All builders within SENSES are required to follow these guidelines, with plans approved prior to construction. The approval process and requirements are outlined in the Design Guidelines document, available to download here.

Frequently asked questions
How do I purchase land at SENSES?
Start by contacting our friendly sales team at Ray White Mount Barker, located at the Mt Barker Homemaker Centre. They'll guide you through available allotments, pricing, and the contract process. Once you've chosen your lot, you'll sign a land contract and pay a deposit to secure your purchase.
How much deposit is required?
A standard deposit is typically 10% of the land purchase price, though this can vary. The balance is payable at settlement. Our sales team can confirm what applies in your situation.
Do I need finance pre-approval before I buy?
Finance pre-approval isn't mandatory, but it is highly recommended. It gives you greater confidence and can streamline the purchase process.
Can I choose my own builder?
Yes. You're welcome to choose the builder that best suits your needs, as long as your home design complies with the SENSES Urban Design Guidelines. You can download the Guidelines from this website.
What are the key design requirements?
All homes must follow the SENSES Urban Design Guidelines. These cover key elements such as building setbacks, heights, façade design, materials, landscaping, and sustainability. These standards help create a cohesive streetscape and protect the value of your home by ensuring consistent quality across the neighbourhood.
What is the process for home design approval?
Before submitting plans to Council, you'll need Encumbrance Approval from the SENSES team. This involves submitting your house plans, elevations, materials, and site details to the Encumbrance Manager. In most cases, your builder will handle this for you. Once approved, you'll receive stamped plans to include in your Council development application.
How long do I have to build after purchasing land?
Construction must commence within 12 months of settlement and be completed within 18 months. Driveways must be installed within 3 months of building completion, and front landscaping completed within 6 months.
Are there sustainability requirements?
Yes. All homes must achieve a minimum 6-star energy rating and include a rainwater tank plumbed to toilets or gardens. The guidelines also encourage the use of solar panels, native planting, and other energy-efficient design features — all of which support a more sustainable lifestyle and help reduce long-term living costs.

Creating your new home

How to buy

Whether you're buying your first home, upsizing, downsizing or investing, the process can feel overwhelming. That's why we've created a simple buyer's guide to walk you through each step and help you feel confident every step of the way.

How to borrow

Whether you're a first-time buyer, making room for more, ready to downsize, or investing in your future, the journey can feel complex. Our easy-to-follow buyer's guide is here to simplify the process and give you confidence from start to finish.

How to build

Choosing the right builder is an exciting step but it can also feel overwhelming. Our guide is here to help you navigate the process, explore your options, and plan a home that suits your lifestyle today and adapts with you into the future.