As fundamental as foundations are to a building; we believe that a thorough site and design analysis and collaborative partnership with the client is crucial in realising the potential and ultimate success of the project.
Our professional services are tailored to meet your individual requirements and budget, providing you with the scope and level of architectural service you desire.
A typical full service includes architecture and interior design and covers the following; concept design, design development, development approvals, contract documentation, consultant coordination, building approvals and contract administration.
A project’s success is a collaborative effort of a team coordinated by the Architect. The team includes the client, architect, builder, consultants and sub-consultants all striving to achieve the same goal, the best outcome for the client.
Stages: What happens?
1. Concept Design
What happens?
Our journey together begins…at the end of this stage you will be presented with a concept design and together we will realise a direction for your project.
The Brief
Initially we obtain your “wish list” of requirements for your “dream home” then through consultation with you we develop the brief further. We gain a deeper understanding of your aspirations, budget, site, lifestyle, personality and interests and then we discuss ideas, options, opportunities and explore unconsidered potentials.
Site & Design Analysis
Unique to our practice we undertake and provide a detailed Site & Design Analysis that educates and informs you of the opportunities and considerations for your design.
Take it with you → understand & reflect → confirm your project direction.
This is a critical first step in achieving the most successful design response and clients find this extremely beneficial in understanding the design of their project.
Analysis of Authority (Council & Building) Regulations & Requirements
Each project has individual requirements based on locality and project type that need to be investigated, satisfied or challenged. Early understanding of these regulations and requirements allows us to address all potential items in the initial concept design response.
3D Visualisation
At Concept Design you will receive a 3d image of your proposed residence indicating the concept design response and preliminary materials. Along with the design, 3d images are developed further in the next stage of Design Development.
2. Design Development
What happens?
The architectural and interior design is refined and developed further in more detail. Materials and finishes, fixtures and fittings are discussed and selected.
A more holistic design is achieved if the interior design is developed simultaneously as one with the architectural concept design and design development.
Co-ordinate Consultant Team
Each project is unique and will potentially require the services of various consultants. We can inform you which consultants are required or advisable, detail the services they provide and coordinate their engagement on your behalf.
Consultants typically include; Surveyor, Geotechnical Engineer, Structural Engineer, Private Certifier/ Building Surveyor & Quantity Surveyor.
Budget Management
We discuss your realistic budget and ways to manage it. We highly recommend the specialist services of a Quantity Surveyor to provide an independent construction budget estimate. Clients may also request estimates from their chosen builder or selection of builders tendering on the project.
Development Approval
Our office will submit your project to council at the end of this stage;
• if development approval is mandatory for your local council
• or if your project is outside the standard council guidelines
3. Contract Documentation
What happens?
The contract documentation incorporates all consultant input, and is a final package of detailed architectural and interior drawings accompanied by a detailed specification.
Project Documentation Coordination
Coordination of all consultant’s documentation, authorities’ requirements and building approvals in preparation for tender and construction.
Specification
A comprehensive and detailed document outlining the specifications and standards required for the build. It will also include schedules of fittings, finishes and fixtures for all architecture and interior design.
4. Contract Administration
What happens?
Coordinating the tender process and administration of the building contract between the builder and client. Ensuring that the project is built as documented and finished to the standard it was specified.
Amongst other items, the architect’s role during Contract Administration will include;
Contractor Selection
Coordinate tender packages, issue to and liaise with builders during tender period. Review the completed tenders and present to client for appointment of their chosen builder.
Administration
Prepare the Australian Institute of Architects building contract. During construction undertake periodic site inspections, check work in progress, review shop drawings, administer variations, assess progress claims and issue progress certificates. At practical completion the final contract amount is assessed, the completed project is inspected, a defects list is prepared and the Practical Completion Certificate is issued.
Post Construction
Inspect the project, confirm defects have been rectified and issue the Final Certificate on completion of the defect liability period.