Where Experience Meets Ambition
DW8 Developments is the partnership of David Watson and Ross Doherty, two long-time collaborators with a shared passion for design-led, future-focused development. With decades of experience across construction, design, and project delivery, we bring complementary strengths to every project—ensuring each outcome is both commercially sound and creatively considered.
David’s background spans high-end residential construction and boutique developments in the UK and Australia, where he has led teams, designed and built projects from the ground up, and always pushed for better outcomes through thoughtful, efficient design. Ross brings deep expertise in finance, development strategy, and commercial property, having delivered multiple successful projects of his own across Queensland.
After years of parallel careers and shared ideas, we’ve come together under DW8 to shape places that reflect our combined values: quality, clarity, longevity, and considered growth. We see each development not just as a set of units or buildings—but as a community asset, designed to work well now and into the future.
We’re hands-on, values-led, and deeply committed to raising the bar on what’s expected in regional commercial and light industrial development.
Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skilful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.
— WILLIAM FOSTER
Meet The Team
David Watson brings over 25 years of experience in design, construction, and development, with a track record spanning high-end residential builds in the UK to innovative, community-focused projects in regional Australia.
Originally starting his career in construction in the United States, David went on to found and lead a successful boutique building company in the UK, where he delivered complex custom homes and small-scale commercial spaces. Since relocating to Australia, he has continued to apply his design-led philosophy to a series of self-developed projects—acting as client, designer, and builder—giving him a unique, 360-degree perspective on what it takes to deliver great outcomes.
With a strong eye for design, a builder’s practicality, and a developer’s commercial focus, David now leads DW8 Developments with a clear mission: to create smarter, better spaces for the next generation of business and community. He believes in doing things properly—from the earliest concept sketches to handover—and thrives on bringing talented teams together to make well-designed, future-proof projects happen.
Ross Doherty is a registered builder and experienced property developer with a strong track record delivering industrial and civil projects across Australia, the United Kingdom, and Brazil. With deep expertise in construction and project management, Ross has led developments from feasibility through to handover, ensuring quality, compliance, and commercial success.
He has worked for one of Australia’s leading Tier 1 commercial builders, gaining experience on complex, large-scale projects and developing a sharp understanding of construction risk, stakeholder management, and delivery under pressure.
Ross is currently part of the development team delivering Ocean Rise, a 14-unit residential development in Caloundra, scheduled for completion in August 2025. His role includes overseeing construction coordination, contractor engagement, and program management to ensure the project remains on time and within budget.
“From the very first conversation, DW8 just got it. They understood our vision, respected our budget, and delivered something beyond what we imagined. The level of design thinking, communication, and finish was outstanding. Our new space isn’t just functional—it’s inspiring. Clients comment on it, our team loves working in it, and we genuinely feel proud every time we walk through the door. We wouldn’t hesitate to partner with DW8 again.”
— Sarah K., Owner / Director
Precision Coastal Fitouts, Hervey Bay
“Working with DW8 was the best decision we made. Their attention to detail, responsiveness, and design-driven approach set them apart from the start. What impressed us most was how every element—from layout to light—was considered with care. The end result is a home that feels custom, timeless, and incredibly liveable. You can tell it was built by people who care about more than just ticking boxes—they care about quality, experience, and legacy.”
— James & Eliza M., Owners
DW8 Boutique Residence, Sunshine Coast
“DW8 raised the bar for what we thought a commercial space could be. The design is smart, the finishes are elevated, and the functionality is exactly what we needed to grow. We’ve worked out of a lot of industrial units over the years—but this one actually feels like it was made for us. The whole process was seamless, and the end result has completely changed the way we do business. It’s more than a space—it’s a statement.”
— Ben R., Director
Northshore Engineering & Fabrication, Unit 6 / DW8 TradeWorks Park