Pre-Design

Early advice that shapes better design decisions.

Ballast Point’s pre-design service helps homeowners take the first step with more confidence. Through site review, early architectural thinking and practical builder insight, we help clarify what is possible, identify key constraints and shape the right direction before deeper design work begins.

Better beginnings lead to better projects.

At the start of a project, the biggest value often comes from asking the right questions early. Pre-design is where ideas are tested against the site, priorities are clarified and the path ahead becomes more visible. It gives clients a stronger foundation for what comes next — whether that means progressing into concept design, refining scope or making a more informed decision about how to proceed. This mirrors Ballast Point’s current offer of site inspections, 3D scans, early concept options and a roadmap through design and approval.

Design Lite Consultation
Inspection + Advice + Sketches
$3,650
https://calendly.com/ballastpointdesign/design-consultation-sketches
Architecture, Interiors

3D Design Consultation
Architectural Design Sketches + 3D Vignettes
$4,850
https://calendly.com/ballastpointdesign/property-inspection-and-feasibility-study
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Architecture

3D Design & Sustainability Consultation
Architectural Design Sketches + 3D Vignettes + Sustainability Review
$6,225
https://calendly.com/ballastpointdesign/design-sustainability-consultation-report-sketches
Architecture

3D Design & Heritage Consultation
Architectural Design Sketches + 3D Vignettes + Heritage Consultant
$6,390
https://calendly.com/ballastpointdesign/design-consultation-report-sketches-heritage
Architecture

Practical insight, not just ideas.

Site inspection with architect and builder input
Early briefing around needs, priorities and project goals
Initial concept options or sketches
3D scan/model input where relevant
A roadmap through design, approval and likely next steps

A clear first step into the project.

step 1

Understand the property

We review the site, the existing home and the constraints or opportunities it presents.

step 2

Shape the brief

We work through how you live, what you need and what the project should achieve.

step 3

Define the direction

You receive practical early advice, concept thinking and a clearer sense of the path ahead.

Architecture & design services across every stage.

Planning & Approvals

Clear guidance through design development, documentation and the approval pathway.

Heritage Architecture

Sensitive design for heritage homes that balances character, compliance and modern living.

Sustainability

Smarter sustainable design for healthier, more comfortable and energy-efficient homes.

FAQ

Here are some common questions to help you understand how our architectural design consultation works and what to expect.

Can’t find the answer that you’re looking for? Get in touch with our team.

They start by understanding the client’s needs and objectives, then assess the site’s constraints and possibilities before creating the architecture.

For a major renovation ($500k–$1.5m budget), typically about three months to reach the approval stage. Timing also depends on how quickly clients approve each stage.

No fixed style — they respond to the needs of the property and the people using it. Their work leans modern but is designed to fit within a heritage context where relevant.

Yes — everything from project planning and concept design through to construction management and maintenance.

Architecture and construction are integrated into one team, with construction input from the start. Clients are not locked into a construction contract, so they get a full-service experience while retaining the flexibility of a traditional architect relationship.

Clients are treated as part of the team. A half-day workshop is held with each client, and they have final approval on all major decisions.

Through workshops, including a half-day session mapping out each user’s journey through the space. Resale potential is also factored in where relevant.

Concept design covers the overall floor plan and development feel. Detailed design comes after council approval and includes finishes, set-outs, and light fitting positions — enough detail to build directly from.

Early-stage changes are straightforward. Later changes are harder to manage, but the integrated construction team can provide immediate cost and time impact assessments at any stage.

They maintain a close project schedule and prioritise client communication, keeping the move-in timeline clear and realistic.

They begin by building a precise 3D model of the existing structure, then work creatively to rearrange and connect spaces. They have significant experience with small and narrow inner-west sites.

Yes. Everything is modelled in 3D from the start, and clients can walk through the design on a laptop or iPad at their own pace.

A clearer way to begin your project.

Ballast Point brings architecture, interior design and construction together in one integrated practice — with services designed to make the first step easier.