Process and Services
We are a full-service architectural design practice - taking projects from concept design through to construction and completion.
We work primarily in and around Sydney, including the Eastern Suburbs and Inner West, with extensive experience in Woollahra, North Sydney, Mosman, Manly, Randwick and City of Sydney,
Our creative design process would typically be based on the following stages:
Stage 00 - Pre-Design Studies
Services - Feasibility Studies, Budget Studies, Design Consultation Meetings
We understand that many people want some initial information prior to committing to undertake a project. For this reason, we offer some initial services at a fixed, affordable fee, without requiring any further commitment to the rest of the architectural design process. We would typically undertake the initial consultation service prior to preparing a full fee proposal.
Stage 01 - Concept Design
Services - Site measure and photography, Organise survey, Drafting of measured drawings, Generation of concept design through sketches, diagrams, models and reference images
After establishing the brief, we will typically start by sketching or diagramming possibilities for the proposal to communicate the ideas quickly and effectively. This is also a period of research for us, investigating new approaches that could be used for the project.
Stage 02 - Design Development
Services - Consultant Coordination, Cost Plan submission, Value Management, Design Development
After agreeing on the concept proposal, we will then develop the concept design through CAD drawings, and both digital and physical modelling to better understand the spatial qualities of the design, how it relates to the context, and how the space may begin to look and feel physically. This stage will also begin to incorporate the work of other consultants to allow for the co-ordination of the overall design. At this stage we highly recommend the engagement of a Quantity Surveyor to develop a Cost Plan, to give an indication of possible costs early on.
Stage 03 - Approvals
Services - Authority applications eg Council Development Applications, Complying Development Certificate
Once the outline cost and design of the project is established, we produce documentation to submit for assessment of the project by the relevant authority (typically by Council via a Development Application). This will consist of plans, sections, elevations, studies, and other information required to accurately communicate the proposal.
Stage 04 - Documentation
Services - Construction Documentation, Tendering / Pricing, Client assistance in the analysis of tenders, selection and appointment of Contractor
We produce detailed drawings that enable the builder to price and build the project according to the design. The stage is key for ensuring the early design concepts are translated into the finished product. This will often include visits to suppliers and fabricators to establish the specific products or techniques to be used for construction.
Stage 05 - Construction Stage
Services - Contract Administration, Site Attendance, Issue of Instructions and Progress Certificates, Defect Liability Period Management
We typically act as Contract Administrator during construction, to assist in realising the intent of the design as drawn. We conduct regular site visits with the builder and client to coordinate, answer questions and assist the progress of the build.
Stage 06 - Post completion
Services - Defects Inspections, Contract Administration
We are still involved with the project once the construction is complete. Acting as Contract Administrator, we will undertake defects inspections to identify and record defects, and instruct the builder as to their rectification.
If you would like to find out more about our process or to get involved, please contact us below