What is a Class 2 Architect and Why It Matters for Your Sydney Development

If you're developing multi-residential or commercial buildings in Sydney, you’re likely already familiar with Class 2 classification under the National Construction Code². However, recent reforms introduced under the Design and Building Practitioners Act¹ now require specific compliance processes and documentation for these types of developments.

Engaging a Class 2 architect in Sydney is no longer just a best-practice decision. For applicable projects, it’s a legal obligation. The right architect ensures your design is compliant from the outset, helping avoid certification issues, rework, or delays during construction.

Regulations can make or break a project. That’s why working with an architectural partner who understands the landscape is essential to staying compliant and on track.

Understanding the Class 2 Classification

Class 2 buildings are defined as residential apartment buildings with dwellings located on top of one another². This typically includes:

• Apartment complexes

• Mixed-use developments with commercial or retail space below and residences above

• Dual-occupancy homes with stacked configurations

Under current legislation¹, any development that meets this classification must involve a registered Class 2 design practitioner who can prepare and lodge regulated designs through the NSW Planning Portal³ before any construction begins.

Why Developers Need to Address Compliance Early

The DBP Act¹ was introduced to reduce the risk of structural and waterproofing defects by lifting documentation and design standards across the industry. Certifiers, insurers, and regulatory authorities now scrutinise design documentation more thoroughly than ever.

Engaging a registered Class 2 architect helps you:

• Meet lodgement and design obligations via the NSW Planning Portal³

• Coordinate with consultants early and avoid conflicting documentation

• Comply with DBP Act and National Construction Code standards²

• Streamline DA/CDC approvals and reduce post-approval risk

Delaying architectural engagement or working with a non-registered designer risks triggering compliance issues, unnecessary redesign, and certification delays.

What a Class 2 Architect Brings Beyond Compliance

Beyond the regulatory requirements, the right architect adds value by improving yield, reducing build complexity, and enhancing project viability.

A skilled Class 2 architect in Sydney will:

• Maximise floor space efficiency without compromising liveability

• Design layouts that are both compliant and practical to build

• Produce clear, construction-ready documentation

• Flag risks early in the design phase to avoid changes on site

This level of foresight is especially valuable in projects with tight budgets, strict timelines, or complex planning overlays.

Why Work With Eoin Architects

At Eoin Architects, we specialise in delivering thoughtful, buildable design for developers working across Class 2 and commercial projects in Sydney. Our practice is registered under the DBP Act and backed by years of experience working with planners, certifiers, and consultants.

We offer:

• Registered Class 2 design and documentation

• DA/CDC drawing packages

• Consultant coordination for structural, civil, and services

• Commercial design, feasibility, and planning advice

We’re across the latest compliance requirements and deliver architecture that meets regulation and commercial needs at the same time.

Planning a Class 2 or Commercial Project? Let’s Talk

If you're preparing a Class 2 residential development or a commercial project in Sydney, we’d be happy to assist from the earliest stage. Early architectural input is one of the simplest ways to reduce design risks and keep your project progressing smoothly.

Call us at +61449121346
Email us at info@eoinarchitects.com
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FAQs: Class 2 and Commercial Architects in Sydney

• 1. What is a Class 2 building under the NCC?

   Class 2 buildings are residential apartment buildings where individual dwellings are stacked vertically. These projects must comply with specific requirements under the NCC² and DBP Act¹.

• 2. Is it mandatory to use a Class 2 architect?

  Yes. Under current legislation¹, regulated designs must be prepared and lodged by a registered Class 2 design practitioner. Without this, your project may not be certified.

• 3. What types of projects does Eoin Architects work on?

  We design Class 2 residential, mixed-use, and commercial developments across Sydney. Our team provides full support from concept design through to construction documentation and DBP compliance.

• 4. What is the NSW Planning Portal used for?

  All regulated designs for Class 2 projects must be lodged through the NSW Planning Portal³. It serves as the central platform for approvals and compliance documentation.

• 5. When should a developer engage a Class 2 architect?

  The sooner, the better. Early involvement allows us to contribute to site feasibility, planning, risk management, and smoother coordination with certifiers and consultants.

References

¹ NSW Government. Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (NSW). Accessed via: https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/view/html/inforce/current/act-2020-007
² Australian Building Codes Board. National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 - Building Classifications. Accessed via: https://ncc.abcb.gov.au
³ NSW Planning Portal. Class 2 Building Resources. Accessed via: https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au