Design Standards
Design & Building Approvals
Our Design Philosophy
Bella Vista has been shaped over more than seven years around a simple but important principle: quality in design and materials creates a community with genuine character and lasting value.
We believe that thoughtful design — varied front elevations, consistent detailing on all visible sides of a building, and carefully considered landscaping — benefits not just individual homeowners but the entire neighbourhood. Our approach moves away from repetitive tract housing in favour of distinctive homes that complement their surroundings, contribute to energy efficiency, and enhance the liveability of our streets.
Design Guidelines
Before proceeding with any house or landscaping design, it is essential that you familiarise yourself with the Bella Vista Design Guidelines. Building a new home is a significant investment, and understanding the quality standards we have established will help protect that investment from the outset.
If you have questions at any stage, please put them in writing to the Design Control Committee so that both you and the Board have a clear record of any clarifications provided.
The Design Control Committee (DCC)
The DCC exists to help owners develop their lots in a manner consistent with the Covenants and Design Standards established by Bella Vista's original developers. These standards are intended to maintain a consistent, high-quality feel across the subdivision, protecting and enhancing property values for all owners.
Important: Auckland Council will not process a building consent for a Bella Vista property without written Design Approval from the DCC. Owners intending to build must therefore submit their design proposals to the DCC before lodging any council consent application.
The DCC is comprised of one or more Association committee members, a qualified architect, and a landscape designer. The Committee Chair is the first point of contact for owners and is happy to discuss any aspect of a new building project ahead of a formal submission.
Contact the DCC: dcc@bellavistara.org
Modifications to Approved Plans
If you wish to make changes to your property after receiving design approval, those changes must also be submitted for approval to ensure continued compliance with the subdivision's covenants and rules. This process is also designed to minimise disruption to neighbouring properties during any works.
Please note that all works, including landscaping and planting, must be completed within 12 calendar months of DCC approval being issued.
Approval Process
Bella Vista has been shaped over more than seven years around a simple but important principle: quality in design and materials creates a community with genuine character and lasting value.
We believe that thoughtful design — varied front elevations, consistent detailing on all visible sides of a building, and carefully considered landscaping — benefits not just individual homeowners but the entire neighbourhood. Our approach moves away from repetitive tract housing in favour of distinctive homes that complement their surroundings, contribute to energy efficiency, and enhance the liveability of our streets.
Design Guidelines
Before proceeding with any house or landscaping design, it is essential that you familiarise yourself with the Bella Vista Design Guidelines. Building a new home is a significant investment, and understanding the quality standards we have established will help protect that investment from the outset.
If you have questions at any stage, please put them in writing to the Design Control Committee so that both you and the Board have a clear record of any clarifications provided.
The Design Control Committee (DCC)
The DCC exists to help owners develop their lots in a manner consistent with the Covenants and Design Standards established by Bella Vista's original developers. These standards are intended to maintain a consistent, high-quality feel across the subdivision, protecting and enhancing property values for all owners.
Important: Auckland Council will not process a building consent for a Bella Vista property without written Design Approval from the DCC. Owners intending to build must therefore submit their design proposals to the DCC before lodging any council consent application.
The DCC is comprised of one or more Association committee members, a qualified architect, and a landscape designer. The Committee Chair is the first point of contact for owners and is happy to discuss any aspect of a new building project ahead of a formal submission.
Contact the DCC: dcc@bellavistara.org
Modifications to Approved Plans
If you wish to make changes to your property after receiving design approval, those changes must also be submitted for approval to ensure continued compliance with the subdivision's covenants and rules. This process is also designed to minimise disruption to neighbouring properties during any works.
Please note that all works, including landscaping and planting, must be completed within 12 calendar months of DCC approval being issued.
Approval Process
- Ensure your architect or designer has a current copy of the Bella Vista Design Guidelines and Covenants before commencing any planning or design work.
- Complete the form fully, and submit it together with all proposed plans and supporting documents to secretary@bellavistara.org. Include proof of payment of the applicable application fee. Fee and bond details are included in the application form.
- Note that payment in full and a completed application form must be received by the BVRA Board before any DCC meetings can be scheduled. Incomplete applications cannot be reviewed.
- The DCC will conduct an initial review to determine whether approval can be granted internally or whether external specialist input is required. Any external costs will be charged to the owner's account.
- Respond to any DCC queries and resubmit revised documents as required.
- Submit details of your nominated lead contractor, including their trading name, evidence of comparable completed projects, and proof of public liability insurance of no less than NZ$1 million, valid for the duration of the works. The lead contractor is responsible for ensuring all subcontractors carry equivalent insurance, or for assuming liability for their actions.
- The DCC will issue an Approval to Proceed letter once all requirements have been met.
- On completion of works, contact the DCC to arrange a post-construction inspection. Once satisfied, the DCC will issue a Completion Letter confirming the project has been built in accordance with the approved plans.
This letter should be retained by the owner and passed on to any future purchaser of the property.