The following describes our typical process of design and authority approval that will ultimately lead to construction. The scope of each stage are broken down in the following sections.

Stage 1 - Pre Design

During this investigation phase, we gather information about the site and create a 3D CAD model of the existing building. We visit the site to review and measure existing buildings, analyse the opportunities and constraints, and develop planning options. We will also sit down with you to record a detailed brief.

Stage 2 - Concept Design

We will interpret your brief and present a schematic concept design via sketches and 3D form studies. This will be presented to you incrementally for your review and comments. We will have a preliminary cost estimate completed by an independent Quantity Surveyor.

Stage 3 - Development Application

The design will be refined in response to your comments, and developed for lodgement to Council. We will establish a team of consultants to advise on the design, while also preparing documents like the Statement of Heritage Impact, Stormwater plans and Landscape plans, which will accompany the architectural drawings for Development Application.

Stage 4 - Design Support during DA Assessment

Following DA lodgement, Council may request further information to be provided, site visits and meetings. This stage is ‘as-required’ service, and is typically charged at hourly rates.

Stage 5 - Construction Documentation 

We will present detailed designs in 3D for kitchens, bathrooms and joinery, and further coordinate external consultants - integrating all aspects the project.  The result is a fully detailed and coordinated set of drawings and specifications sufficient for construction.

Stage 6 - Construction Certificate

A Principal Certifying Authority (PCA) will be engaged for the project and engineering and compliance documents will be submitted. Completion of this stage results in the Certifier issuing the Construction Certificate which means that construction can commence. 

Stage 7 - Pre-contract Procurement  

We will engage an independent Quantity Surveyor to provide an indicative cost plan for construction. We will also get quotes from sub-contractors to market test the cost plan with the trades. The construction contract will be developed and agreed upon ready for the construction works to commence. 

Stage 8 - Construction

During the construction phase, we will attend site periodically as the project progresses to maintain general conformance with the construction documents, as well as offering design support to the builders on site. There are normally samples and shop drawings that will need to be reviewed during construction. This part of the project is an ‘as-required’ service, and is typically charged at hourly rates.