Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Home Builders in Camberwell
Established in 1964, F J & N Richards is a family-owned and operated business with over 40 years of experience in delivering high-quality residential construction and renovation services. As third-generation builders, we specialise in creating new designer homes, period-style renovations, and sustainable construction solutions. Our expertise extends to underground rainwater tank installations, earthmoving, and development projects, supported by a fleet of specialist machinery. We collaborate closely with leading architects to ensure seamless design and construction, prioritising sustainable practices while maintaining architectural integrity.Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through meticulous attention to detail, from matching period-specific features to utilising durable materials. We pride ourselves on transforming cramped spaces into light-filled, functional homes while maintaining minimal disruption to clients during projects. Our team of skilled tradespeople ensures every job is completed to the highest standard, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
Services
Home Renovations
Extensions
Underground Tanks
Earthmoving
Development Projects
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- Third-generation family business with 40+ years' local experience
- Specialists in period-style renovations with architectural precision
- Pioneers in sustainable design and construction practices
- Direct collaboration with leading Australian architects
- Comprehensive service from concept to completion
Services
Home Renovations
Transform existing homes with period-accurate restorations or modern updates. Our team preserves architectural integrity while incorporating sustainable materials and open-plan designs. Specialising in Victorian-era renovations, we match original features like cornices and bricks to maintain historical authenticity while improving functionality.
Extensions
Create spacious living areas with seamless extensions. We design and construct north-facing additions that maximise natural light, using modular construction techniques to minimise disruption. Our projects integrate modern amenities while maintaining visual harmony with original structures, perfect for growing families needing extra space.
Underground Tanks
Install Atlantis Matrix underground water tanks for efficient rainwater harvesting. These load-bearing systems (up to 38 tonnes/m) fit beneath lawns, driveways, or new constructions. Our installation process ensures zero loss of yard space while providing 50,000+ litre storage capacity with root barrier protection and durable HDPE liners.
Earthmoving
Professional excavation and land shaping using modern machinery. Our fleet includes 5.5-tonne Yanmar and Komatsu excavators with specialist attachments for rock drilling, stone wall construction, and wetland rehabilitation. We handle challenging terrain for residential developments, including foundation preparation and erosion control projects.
Development Projects
End-to-end property development from planning to completion. Current projects include multi-unit villa developments like 28 Relowe Cres Balwyn. We manage design coordination with architects, council approvals, and construction of modern, sustainable housing solutions tailored to urban growth areas.
People
Ben Richards
Director
Third-generation builder leading F J & N Richards with 20+ years' hands-on experience. Specialises in sustainable construction methods and period renovations. Oversees project management while maintaining family commitment to quality craftsmanship and client communication.
Questions
Do you specialise in heritage home renovations?
Yes, we specialise in period-style renovations, meticulously matching original architectural details like cornices, brickwork, and plasterwork while incorporating modern sustainable materials and layouts.
Can underground tanks be installed in existing gardens?
Yes, our Atlantis tanks can be retrofitted under lawns or paved areas with minimal disruption. We carefully remove and replace topsoil to maintain landscaping while creating 50,000+ litre water storage capacity.
What areas do you service?
We operate across Melbourne's eastern suburbs including Camberwell, Balwyn, and surrounding areas. Our compact machinery allows access to tight spaces in both established and developing regions.
Are sustainable building practices included in renovations?
Yes, we integrate sustainable design principles into all projects, using energy-efficient materials and water-saving systems like underground tanks to reduce environmental impact while lowering utility costs.
How do you handle large-scale earthworks?
Our modern excavator fleet (up to 5.5 tonnes) with specialist attachments handles rock drilling, stone wall construction, and land shaping. We've completed projects ranging from residential basements to wetland rehabilitation programs.
