PRE-DESIGN STAGE

This initial phase is dedicated to gathering and organizing all relevant contextual information, laying the groundwork for in-depth analysis and preparing for the design stage of the project. We collaborate closely with our clients to explore the site’s unique attributes and identify any potential constraints prior to the development of the design.

FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS

Dependant on the complexity of the brief, site characteristics and form of development, we may on some occasions recommend preparing a feasibility analysis for the project. This process evaluates the various planning controls, site constraints and services to better understand if a client’s brief and spatial requirements (relative to the site) can be achieved and any potential issues that may arise that may make it more difficult or time consuming.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN

The schematic design phase is where we establish the creative vision for each project, responding thoughtfully to our clients’ unique needs and aspirations. We believe every home should reflect the lifestyle of its occupants, serving as both an inspiration and a source of joy.

During this phase, we carefully analyze every element to ensure optimal natural light, effective cross-flow ventilation, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces. To bring the vision to life and clarify the path forward, we utilize advanced tools such as detailed 3D visualizations, helping clients envision their future home at every stage of development.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT – DA APPROVAL – CDC

The stage of work is the design development of the schematic design for DA or CDC submission, we carefully assess compliance with relevant planning legislation such as Council DCPs, LEPs, and CDC requirements. The design undergoes further refinement in response to planning controls, with additional in-depth analysis provided as needed to justify any variations from standard guidelines or regulations.

Our approach during this phase is to ensure objectivity in our applications by providing the necessary supporting documentation with clear evidence, thereby minimizing subjective interpretation and facilitating a smooth approval process.

COST PLANNING 

With over 20 years of experience in both design and delivering luxury single-dwelling homes and small scale developments, we have developed a refined process for evaluating both design and build costs. Our cost planning approach begins with a thorough understanding of your requirements—covering design expectations, preferred finishes, and budget.

The first step is to establish an initial budget based on the project brief. Once measured plans are available, we review the details with our builders to provide a more accurate cost estimate. Following Council approval, we take the next step to create a comprehensive cost plan that accounts for construction expenses, professional fees, and any client-supplied items.

This structured process allows you to stay focused on bringing your vision to life, while maintaining clear expectations of costs at every stage of your project.

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION (CD)

This phase involves the preparation of detailed drawings and specifications that will guide the construction. To meet various building standards and requirements, this process requires the coordination of consultants such as specialised engineers and suppliers, to ensure all elements work together, as these documents serve as the legal description of what will be built and include technical details that contractors need to realise the architect’s vision. This process involves both design, coordination and technical knowledge to bring all the elements into a package suitable for costing and to complete the project.

CONSTRUCTION CERTIFICATION (CC)

A Construction Certificate is an approval and legal requirement before the commencement of construction, which is typically approved via a Private Certifier Authority (PCA). Our construction certificate documentation is typically a bi-product of our construction documentation phase of work. The construction certificate documentation is amended to meet the requirements of the certifying authority to issue the construction certificate.

BUDGETING, TENDER & CONTRACT PROCESS

This tender process typically involves the selection of three builders to provide a detailed price to complete the project based on the contract documentation. As we know the building process is complex, the builders are carefully chosen based off their skills, past project experience and client testimonial. We will also assist to negotiate the terms of the build contract to ensure you get a fair and competitive price for the construction work. This process may require some adjustments to the construction documentation due to various changes in the negotiations with the builder. It is essential that the contract signing documentation package, and its scope of works is consistent with the agreed contract price.

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION (CA)

During the construction phase, the architect plays a pivotal role in ensuring the building is constructed according to the architectural and interior plans and specifications. This includes regular site visits, reviewing and approving the work of contractors, and managing any changes to the plan. This role includes responding to questions from the builder (RFIs), and approving requests for payment (where the architect acts as the client’s representative to make sure the billing is accurate with the work completed).