An independent, side-by-side look at two of our building partners to help you understand your options.
Last updated June 2026 · reviewed by the BuildPilot team

Design Builder

Custom Builder
Note: BuildPilot partners with both builders. This comparison provides factual information to help you understand your options. It's not a recommendation of one over the other. The right builder depends on your specific needs, budget and preferences.

Designer Homes Adelaide
Architecturally designed homes across Adelaide with focus on premium design and finishes.
Architectural design specialists
Premium construction process

Built With Quality, Built to Last
Family-owned Victorian custom builder covering Melbourne Metro, Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley and regional VIC. New homes, renovations, extensions, granny flats and knockdown rebuilds.
Full custom design or client-supplied plans, no fixed catalogue
Small team, hands-on from first concept through to handover
There's no "better" builder. There's only the builder that's right for your situation. Consider these factors:
Different builders suit different price points. Think about what matters most: price, inclusions, customisation or service.
Some builders specialise in certain areas or challenging sites. Consider who builds in your area and has experience with your block type.
Do you want to heavily modify a plan, or are you happy with standard designs? Different builders offer different levels of flexibility.
Nothing beats seeing their work in person. Visit display homes from both builders to compare quality and style firsthand.
As an indicative per-square-metre guide, AP Designer Homes sits around $2,800 - $4,000/sqm and Burra Built around $250K - $2.5M+. These are guides only - your real price depends on your design, inclusions, site costs and the current market, so get a written quote from each before comparing.
AP Designer Homes was established in Adelaide based and Burra Built in 5-10 years in business.
AP Designer Homes is based in Adelaide and services South Australia. Burra Built is based in Victoria and services Victoria.
AP Designer Homes offers a comprehensive warranty, and Burra Built offers a standard structural warranty. Warranty terms can change, so confirm the current details directly with each builder.
AP Designer Homes is often a good fit for architectural designs, premium finishes, design-led builds, unique homes. Architectural design specialists
Burra Built is often a good fit for custom design, family homes, first home buyers, knockdown rebuild, renovations & extensions. Full custom design or client-supplied plans, no fixed catalogue
BuildPilot can help you understand which builder might suit your specific situation. We work with both AP Designer Homes and Burra Built. Our job is to help you make the right choice for you - not push you toward whichever builder pays the most.
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