Our Design Process

 

We start by talking with you, either over the phone or in person at your place or on your site. We want to hear your vision, understand what you're looking for and make sure we're on the same page. 

From there, we’ll explore your ideas and your site with desktop research, get a feeling for the scope of your project and present a small fixed fee proposal for a Pre-Design Service.  

The pre-design service allows you to learn about us, what we can do for you, and the feasibility of your project, before committing to the full architectural service.  You’ll receive a comprehensive package presenting potential design approaches, site conditions and constraints, the process, timeframes, services we offer, concept design fees and an outline of overall project fees.  It's also a chance for us to get to know each other a little and see if we're a good fit.

If you give us the go-ahead on your project, we begin the first stage of design; we analyse your brief and your site in depth considering the landscape, natural site features, sunlight, wind, shelter, views, privacy and legal requirements. 

We then work on design concepts, balancing your vision with your budget. We often present you with several sketch designs, allowing us to refine your project brief and test both your ideas and ours. To ensure feasibility and cost-effectiveness, we involve the builder whenever possible to provide insight on construction costs and buildability. If direct builder involvement isn't feasible at this stage, we consult with Quantity Surveyors to obtain indicative cost estimates. Once we have a good grasp of the costs and design direction, we can provide you with a detailed fee proposal tailored to your chosen concept design. This thorough process ensures that the final design not only meets your vision but also aligns with your budget and practical construction considerations.

We carry out the design process in several stages, allowing us to work with you and review the project with you along the way to make sure we’re on the right track.  We produce 3D models and virtual fly-throughs of the space so you can see it from every angle.  We work with engineers and specialist consultants on your behalf.  Our comprehensive process means we apply for consent with everything fully thought out.

For the construction phase, we can assist you in selecting the right builder, whether it's at the initial design stages or after finalising project documents. We provide guidance throughout the builder selection process or manage tender procedures, ensuring that the chosen contractor aligns with your project needs. Throughout construction, we maintain close collaboration with you and the builder, offering oversight of contracts and representing your interests on-site when necessary.

 

Design Stages:

Stage 1 - Pre-Design - Project Definition and Planning:

  • Client Consultation
    We meet with you to understand your needs, goals, and vision for the project.

  • Site Analysis
    We evaluate the site conditions, surroundings, Council Development Controls and any constraints that might impact the design.

  • Budget and Timeline
    We work with you to define the project budget, timeline, and any other project-specific constraints.

Stage 2 - Concept Design

  • Concept Development
    We collaborate with you to develop design concepts that align with your vision while considering your budget constraints.

  • Sketch Designs Presentation
    We create rough sketches, diagrams or 3d models, often several options, and present them to you. This aids in refining the brief and allows us to test various ideas. 

  • Feedback and Refinement
    We gather feedback from you and refine the design accordingly.

Stage 3 - Preliminary Design:

  • Refine the Design
    With the refined concept design, we develop further the layout, structure, and spatial relationships within the building.

  • We begin exploring suitable materials and basic structural systems
    We prepare more detailed drawings, including floor plans, elevations, and sections.

  • Builder Involvement or Quantity Surveyor Consultation
    The builder may be brought in to provide insights into the costs and feasibility of construction. Alternatively, if the builder cannot be involved at this stage, Quantity Surveyors are consulted to provide cost estimates.

  • Cost Evaluation
    Understanding the estimated cost of the chosen design concept is crucial. It helps evaluate the project's complexity and feasibility within the client's budget.

  • Detailed Fee Proposal
    Once the chosen concept design and its associated costs are determined, we offer a detailed fee proposal for the project based on the chosen design concept.

Overall, this stage of the process ensures that the design aligns with the client's vision and budget while considering practical construction considerations and costs.

Stage 4 – Developed Design

  • Detailed Design Refinement
    We refine the design, incorporating more details and addressing technical considerations.

  • Collaboration with Engineers
    We work closely with structural, geotechnical, and other engineers to ensure design feasibility.

  • Cost Estimation
    We work with the Builder or Quantity Surveyor to develop a more accurate cost estimate based on the refined design.

Stage 5 - Construction Documentation:

  • Comprehensive Drawings
    We produce detailed and comprehensive construction drawings, including plans, elevations, sections, and details.

  • Specifications
    Materials, finishes, and construction methods are confirmed.

  • Regulatory Compliance
    We ensure that the design meets all local building codes and regulations.

Stage 6– Procurement 

  • Contractor Selection
    We assist with selecting a Builder or selecting a number of Contractors and prepare the Contract Documentation to put out for Tender 

  • Contractor Evaluation
    We evaluate the Tenders and assist you in selecting a suitable contractor.

Stage 7 – Construction Administration

  • Site Visits
    Regularly visit the construction site to ensure the design is being implemented as intended.

  • Issue Resolutions
    Address any issues or changes that arise during construction.

  • Quality Control
    Oversee the quality of work to ensure it meets the design standards.

  • Final Inspections
    Conduct final inspections to ensure all aspects of the project meet specifications.

  • Client Handover
    Hand over the completed project to the client.

  • As-Built Documentation
    Provide the client with accurate as-built drawings reflecting any changes made during construction.

We recommend we are involved in the stages 6-7 to ensure a high quality result but are also happy to be involved by providing a partial service whereby we are available for on-site queries and clarifications, help with design or construction changes, final cabinetry or lighting design and so on.