Your Approval Process.

Every project is different - but as architects and builders under the same roof we are equipped to provide advice and services based on your specific needs. Perhaps you need help figuring out what’s possible on your property or one you’re looking to buy, or you already have a good idea of what you’d like to do and need our expertise to get it approved and built, or you already have an approval and want to get started, we’re here to help.

Typically, we suggest booking in a site inspection or design consultation so you can get the information you need to make an informed decision on how you’d like to proceed.

Your journey starts here!

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 engage a surveyor to measure existing buildings, analyse the opportunities and constraints, and develop planning options. We will also sit down with you to record a detailed brief during our Client Briefing and User Journey Workshop.

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.

Lodgement & Approval

The design will be refined in response to your comments, and prepared for the submission of Development Approval (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC), depending on project’s scope. We will assemble a team of consultants to provide advice on the design, while also preparing essential documents such as the Statement of Heritage Impact, Statement of Environmental Effects, BASIX certificate, and Shadow diagrams and solar studies, which will accompany the architectural drawings for the application.

Following the submission, the Council may request additional information, site visits, or meetings. This stage is offered on an 'as-required' basis and is typically charged at hourly rates.

Review

After the DA or CDC approval, we will touch base with you to check if any of your key objectives or needs have changed since the project began. We will also review the budget to ensure we are still on target and create a detailed plan for the next phase of your project.

Documentation & Certification

We will provide detailed 3D designs and construction drawings, encompassing interior design, joinery, and selections of fittings, finishes, and fixtures. We will coordinate with external consultants to integrate all aspects of the project. The result is a fully detailed and coordinated set of drawings and specifications sufficient for construction.

Depending on your approval pathway, a Principal Certifying Authority (PCA) may be required 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. 

Pre-Contract Procurement

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

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.

Completion & Handover

Once your project is complete, we’ll hand over the keys along with a handover package of all your approvals, drawings, certificates, manuals and warranties. Our relationship doesn’t end there though, as we assist with ongoing maintenance and hopefully future projects!

  • The construction documentation phase typically takes 6-8 weeks for projects requiring a Development Application (DA). This phase includes detailed drawings that comply with DA conditions and Australian standards, ensuring everything is ready for construction.

    For projects that require a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), the documentation phase can occur simultaneously with the CDC assessment, which typically takes about 2-4 weeks.

  • During the Pre-Design phase, we:

    • Conduct a site survey and gather digital measurements.

    • Research planning instruments relevant to your property.

    • Create preliminary site models and 3D massing to explore possible design solutions.

    • Organize a Client Workshop to develop your project brief, identifying your key objectives and preferences.

    This phase lays the foundation for your project and ensures that we’re aligned with your goals before moving forward.

  • The Concept Design phase typically lasts around 6 weeks and includes:

    • Preliminary sketches and conceptual refinement.

    • Reiterations and review based on your feedback.

    • 3D digital renderings to help you visualize the design.

    Once we finalize the concept design, we’ll present it to you with plans, diagrams, and 3D models. You’ll have a clear understanding of your future space before moving forward.


  • For projects requiring a DA, we handle the submission to the council, which involves:

    • A detailed site survey by a registered surveyor.

    • Architectural plans, sections, elevations, and shadow diagrams.

    • A BASIX certificate (for sustainability requirements).

    • A stormwater drainage plan and other necessary engineering documentation.

    We also engage in proactive advocacy with the council to ensure a quick turnaround and escalate issues if necessary, ensuring approval as smoothly as possible.

  • The timeline for construction depends on the size and complexity of your project. Typically, construction can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. We work with you to establish a clear construction timeline, ensuring that you are regularly updated on progress.

    6. Do you provide 3D renderings of the concept design?

    Yes! We can provide a 3D rendering of your concept design, which:

    • Helps you visualize the space better.

    • Allows you to explore it on your own time and from any device.

    • Makes it easier to share with family, friends, or other stakeholders.

    These renderings provide a detailed, realistic view of what the final product will look like.

  • To keep the project on track financially:

    • We work with a quantity surveyor to review the budget and scope during the concept design phase.

    • We ensure an appropriate contingency is in place for unforeseen costs.

    • We provide regular budget updates and track any changes during construction.

    Our goal is to ensure that there are no surprises and that you are aware of any potential cost changes well in advance.

  • Even after construction begins, the project architect remains involved in:

    • Overseeing site meetings.

    • Ensuring that the design is followed precisely.

    • Managing any design-related questions or modifications.

    Your project architect works closely with the site manager and the rest of the construction team to ensure smooth execution of the project.

  • If your DA faces challenges or delays, we take a strategic and proactive approach to resolve issues:

    • We engage with the council quickly and escalate matters when needed.

    • We collaborate with legal teams, planning managers, and other key council figures to ensure the best possible outcome.

    Our goal is to ensure your project moves forward without unnecessary delays.

  • Once construction is complete, we provide:

    • Handover and Defect Rectification: A comprehensive operating manual and defect rectification service to ensure everything is in perfect condition.

    • Ongoing Maintenance: We provide a maintenance schedule for ongoing care and offer small works at project rates for up to 12 months post-handover.

    We want to ensure that your project continues to perform well long after completion.

  • During the pre-contract phase, we develop a procurement plan that includes:

    • Securing the supply of materials, fixtures, and fittings.

    • Hiring subcontractors and coordinating their schedules.

    • Ensuring everything is in place to avoid delays during construction.

    This plan helps us stay on schedule and within budget by anticipating potential issues with material availability or subcontractor delays.

  • Yes, for projects that qualify for a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), we streamline the process:

    • Concept Design typically takes around 2 weeks.

    • CDC Lodgement takes about 1 month.

    • Construction follows a similar timeline to a full DA project, but often moves faster because the documentation phase can happen alongside the assessment.

    We’ll guide you through the process and ensure your project complies with all regulations.

  • Throughout both the design and construction phases, we:

    • Hold regular site meetings to address any questions, concerns, or adjustments.

    • Provide monthly budget updates to ensure you’re always aware of the financial status.

    • Maintain close communication between you, the architect, and the builder to ensure everything runs smoothly.

    You’re never left in the dark—we keep you informed at every step.

  • Yes! We offer property maintenance and renovation services. Whether you need help with a small repair or a large-scale renovation, we have the expertise and team to ensure your property is well cared for.