First and foremost, a casual chat can be helpful to understand the big picture. You have the opportunity to ask us tricky questions, and allow us to ask you a few questions such as: Is it a new build or renovation? Where is the site? What is your vision and the key driver for your project? If by the end of our chat you feel like we can take things to the next level, we organise a complimentary one-on-one to go through the finer details.

Part Two: The client briefing, otherwise the most important stage of the project, is where we break down the brief and walk you through the process of working with an Architect and the value we can bring to your project.

We like to look at the brief like a shopping list. We can use our expertise to recommend a budget based on your brief or alternatively, if you have a budget in mind we make sure that the budget and brief are suitably aligned. If it appears we are a good fit we take the time to prepare a Services Proposal for you. We then organise a second meeting to present this to you.

Once we are formally engaged we recommend meeting at the site to look at any opportunities or constraints that will come into play during the design stages.

We are a design-driven studio, who also aim to give you value for money. We have a very collaborative approach when it comes to formalising a design, this is to ensure you have a clear understanding of spatial planning & building aesthetics.

At the beginning of concept design we explore ideas through a variety of mediums including hand sketching to 3D digital models. As the design develops we translate the sketches into something more formalised such as CAD. By the end of this stage the client is able to visualise the space in 3D and gain a understanding of the volume and flow of the space. This is always a rewarding process and gives the clients confidence in the project as we move into the next stage.

Town Planning, should it be required, is the process in which the design proposal is assessed by a local authority such as your city council to gain development approval. During this stage we prepare the required architectural drawings, diagrams and written justification to be assessed by a planning officer. Typically the development application process involves an assessment and advertisement of the proposal over a 90 day period. We like to allow for 3-4 months as the assessment period is often delayed due to workload. Once approved, the design drawings may progress to the next stage i.e Interior Design & Construction Documentation.

Once we have received development approval, we begin to work through the project with fine tooth comb. We recommend a team of specialist consultants (if required) including engineers, cost consultants and landscape architects to provide their input as we begin to develop the drawings. By the end of this stage you will also have a complete schedule of exterior finishes, interior finishes, fixtures and fittings for your project. We work with you and the project team to make decisions around heating, cooling, product and material selections. By the time we reach construction documentation the project is fine-tuned and gives us the opportunity to start the builder selection process.

Typically, we shortlist and invite builders to tender on a project or alternatively we work with a preferred builder during the construction documentation stage through what’s called a ‘negotiated contract’. This means we can manage the build cost effectively and ensure the project is on budget by the time we obtain a final price from the builder.

We offer our interior design services as part of our full services package or as a stand-alone service. Over the years we have been involved in the design and delivery of internal fitouts, residential and hospitality. These are often as rewarding as the big projects!

The interior design stage runs concurrently with the construction documentation stage. The stages are quite similar with regard to level of refinement, we get the opportunity to dive into the finer details, and break down every component of the job.

As part of process we sit down with you before we put pen-to-paper to generate a brief and get an understanding of your likes and dislikes for your interior space. Every client uses there home differently, and by generating this brief we have a clear understanding of your project requirements.

Once the brief is nailed and we finalise the interior design of your home we present an inventory of products to you which will often include, tapware, door hardware, appliances, tile selections, stone and the list goes on. There is a large amount of time dedicated to research, product selection and generating the interior package, because at the end of the day, this is tailored just for you and your home.

Once you sign off on the Design Development pack we move into Construction Documentation. Here we dive into a comprehensive set of drawings, schedules and specifications that the builder will adopt during the build. The architectural drawing package will include everything from detailed floor plans, through to lighting plans, the set-out of floor wastes and the colour of your grout. It is a lot to digest!

The documentation stage will also capture input from specialist consultants including structural and mechanical engineers, energy assessors and building certifiers. Their information is often required prior to submitting the project for building license. Once the drawings, documentation and contract price are agreed and finalised, the project is submitted back to council for building licence. (This is typically handled by the selected builder). If you are hoping to finance the build you may also be required to submit the drawings and specification to your lender for valuation.

During the construction phase we offer an administration service from site commencement through to handover and final certificate. During this stage we liaise directly with the builder, acting as your advocate on-site. We respond and resolve any problems on site, conduct fortnightly inspections to site to ensure the build reflects the architectural documentation. We also certify claims for payment, review variations and extensions of time. We’ll review samples on site, review and approve shop drawings for your windows, cabinets and structural steel. There is a lot of grunt work behind the scenes to coordinate all the trades on site to ensure you get the best outcome possible.

As your architect we play a key role in project managing your home. We are your second set of eyes and represent you from site commencement through to handover.