Distinctive Homes.
Uncompromising Quality.

Delivering bespoke custom builds, luxury extensions, and flawless knockdown rebuilds to the Canberra region.

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Interior Design

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New Construction

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Renovations

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Remodels

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Interior Design ✳︎ New Construction ✳︎ Renovations ✳︎ Remodels ✳︎

Fully Licensed in ACT & NSW.

Custom Builds are our Forte

Building a custom home or undertaking a major architectural renovation requires more than just technical skill; it requires a deep respect for design and an unwavering commitment to the details.

Founded by licensed builder Jock McDonnell, Forte Building Group partners with clients across Canberra and the surrounding regions to deliver residential projects of the highest caliber. We limit the number of projects we take on each year to ensure every build receives meticulous oversight, seamless project management, and the uncompromising craftsmanship our reputation is built upon.

Our Expertise

Work with Us

Major Renovations & Extensions

Breathe new life into your existing property with masterful structural enhancements. We undertake complex, large-scale extensions and high-ticket renovations that seamlessly integrate modern luxury with your home's original character. Whether expanding your footprint or modernising a classic build, our craftsmanship elevates how you experience your home.

Knockdown Rebuilds

Architectural Custom Homes

Transforming visionary architectural plans into tangible reality. We specialise in the construction of bespoke, high-end homes across Canberra and the surrounding region. From challenging hillside blocks to expansive rural estates, our thorough project management ensures flawless execution, premium finishes, and a refined building journey from the first pour to final handover.
Retain the address you love while upgrading to a residence built for your future. A knockdown rebuild offers the ultimate blank canvas in established neighbourhoods. We oversee the entire lifecycle of the project — from strategic demolition and site preparation to the completion of a brand-new, luxury home — ensuring a seamless transition without the need to relocate.

Reviews From Our Clients

  • "Forte Building Group recently finished our knock-down rebuild in the Inner North and did a fantastic job. After meeting Jock we quickly realised that he was the builder we wanted to go with. We were initially nervous going ahead with any builder because of the cost and the horror stories we'd heard from others who had building projects fall through or who'd experienced dramas with their builder. We didn't have to deal with any of that with Jock. He showed attention to detail throughout and was clearly focussed on delivering to us a house we would love. On the couple of occasions we weren’t on the same page and something didn’t turn out as we’d wanted, he’s offered realistic solutions to resolve the issues. I’d highly recommend Jock and Forte Building Group if you want a high-quality build from a boutique builder without the stress."

    Aaron B

  • "We are so pleased with our decision to go with Forte Building Group for our extension and renovation. Jock and the team were professional and their communication made the whole process easy. Nothing was too difficult. We could tell Jock took great pride in his work, and the results really show it. We highly recommend Forte Building Group, and would certainly work with them again."

    Carol M

  • "We spent many months searching for the right builder to take on our little 100 year old farm cottage project. We were very fortunate to find Forte Building Group for our extension/renovation. Jock was very impressive from the first time we met him. We felt he was the right fit for our project from that first meeting. Jock and the team were very professional in all aspects of the build, our project looked easy on the plans, however when you're working with a 100 year old home, it soon became apparent that there was so much more involved. Jock handled the many complexities throughout the project in a professional manner and was able to sustain quality workmanship, from dealing with removing heavy hardwood beams, working with 5 metre high ceilings, rebuilding/restoring old brick fireplaces and underpinning to part of the house. His carpentry skills were certainly put to the test. Throughout all of this, Jock was happy to accommodate our requests, never gouged us with his pricing and dealt with our concerns in a very polite and respectful way. All of his tradespeople we found to be also very polite, diligent, experienced and always happy to communicate with us. It was by no means an easy project and Jock took on all the challenges the house presented with ease, certainty and loads of energy. We could not be happier with the finished project, and we have no hesitation in recommending Jock and the team at Forte Building."

    Carmella C

  • "Jock and his team are fantastic! From the initial quote of our remodelling and extension to the finish product, it’s hard to explain how easy they made this process. You know you’re dealing with good tradesman when there is immediate solutions to design flaws or last minute changes of mind. Foreman, Harry and the other crew (sorry boys I didn’t get your names) are quality tradesman. I was blown away with the eye for detail that has gone into this project; step by step there were no surprises as Jock is very transparent and communication is always his priority. I didn’t realise that my property would essentially nearly be a knock down rebuild, which was daunting initially but the whole process was very smooth. Jock only uses the best contractors for his projects and every single one of them are just good people with quality and expertise. Don’t look anywhere else."

    Kieran C

  • "Forte Building Group did a magnificent job building our outdoor stairs. Jock and his team were very professional, and were able to prioritise the job so we could once again safely access our yard. I would highly recommend Forte Building Group, and we will be asking for their help again as we gradually fix our ageing home."

    Rachael G

  • "Forte Building Group done the most amazing job from start to finish. We absolutely love our new home & have received many compliments on it! It was built with the highest quality and turned out even more beautiful than we ever imagined. We would highly recommend Forte Build Group."

    Ilecia L

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