How we work

We focus on delivering a unique, high-end design solution for each project, always looking into how we can improve the lives of people who live within the spaces.Taking on an adaptive design approach to our process, everything starts with the site along with our client's needs.

Our Process

Framework for our thinking - a process which breaks the project down into stages, each adding an additional, and manageable, level of complexity

Initial discussions and interview

Client brief and design intent, figure out if we are a good fit with one another.

Site Analysis

Gathering of information for the project, site visit, survey, council and building codes, pre-submittal and pre-approval procedures, formalise the brief, local context sketches

Master Planning

Relationship of functions, site considerations, massing studies, develop brief and meet with appropriate consultants.

Schematic Design

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Formulate Brief

At this point we need to at quantify the brief. This is not to say that the brief cannot evolve during the project, however if the scope of the brief changes greatly over the project we may have to renegotiate fees.

Schematic Sketches

Framework for our thinking - a process which breaks the project down into stages, each adding an additional, and manageable, level of complexity

Opinion on Probable Costs

Produce shadow diagrams showing: o Solar access to the site and adjacent properties at summer solstice, winter solstice and the equinox. Shadow across key elevations, shadows cast by approved and/or existing development.

Design Development /
3D Computer Modelling

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Finalise Brief

Build the rendered 3D computer model

Framework for our thinking - a process which breaks the project down into stages, each adding an additional, and manageable, level of complexity

Produce shadow diagrams

Structural Engineering:

We strongly advise that you independently engage a Structural Engineer. This process is definitely best coordinated during the design development stage as structural design can influence the Architectural design quite considerably

Hydraulics Engineer

If you require grey water systems or complex rain water systems we will need to engage the Hydraulics Engineer at this point

Investigate Possible Builders:

We can either work with a selected builder or send drawings to a number of builders for tender.

Interiors

While the working drawings do show the Bathroom and Kitchen layouts we believe that these areas demand a finer level of detail to get them just right. We like to blow these areas up to a scale of 1:50 and go over them with you to make sure that they suit your needs perfectly. While these drawings are not intended as ‘joinery details’ or ‘shop drawings’ they will accurately pinpoint the location of all fittings and fixtures and will be of great assistance to the carpenters, cabinetmakers, plumbers and electricians. All details are better done prior to the Estimating Drawings so that the builder has all of the necessary information to produce a well-informed quotation.

Electrical Plan

This process involves sitting down together and establishing all of the electrical and lighting requirements. We will then prepare a 1:50 layout of all lights, fans, switches and power outlets. Armed with the electrical plan you will find that the selection of light fittings is much easier and far less time consuming.

Development Application /
Estimating Drawings

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Development Application

Once the design has been ‘signed off’ we will finalise the drawings sufficient for Development Application in accordance with Applicable Council and Estimation by a builder.

Statement of Environmental Effect

Building certifier to Submit a Statement of Environmental Effect; to include:

In written form, a table of description of the compliance of the development proposal with the objectives and controls set out in the relevant sections of this plan.

Reference to any relevant planning policies, SEPPS, regional environmental plans or the like,

Reference to any relevant draft plans.

Estimating

The builder will be able to estimate the building costs based on the DA set of drawings (though this is NOT a fixed contract price). Once the estimating price has been presented by the builder we can work with them and yourself to massage the design where necessary to reach an agreed contract price.

Schedule of Finishes

A full detailed Schedule of Finishes will be prepared and will consist of a comprehensive list of all internal and external elements, fixtures and fittings and will nominate their selected finish and colour.

Contract Documentation

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Working Drawings

Working drawings sufficient for Construction Certificate, i.e. Council Approval. These drawings will also be adequate for construction purposes.

Builder/Client Contract

These drawings will be the basis of the contract between you and the builder. The contract price will be based on these drawings, not the DA drawings.

Consultants Contract Documentation

Before submitting drawings for Certification we will collect and review all consultants’ drawings and confirm that they are consistent and compatible with each other and with the design intent.

Specifications

If administering the contract between you, the client and the builder, a comprehensive specification will need to be developed specifying scope, references, materials and execution of each trade. This specification, along with the contract drawings will form part of the building contract. If we are not administering the contract it may not be necessary to provide a detailed specification as some builders prefer to prepare the contracts specifications themselves.

Contract Administration

Framework for our thinking - a process which breaks the project down into stages, each adding an additional, and manageable, level of complexity