feasibility advice

Is it really feasible to do what you would like to do. Are there better options?

• Assessment of client requirements, site and budget
• Recommendations for overall development options with indicative costings

sketch design drawings

Providing a number of specific architectural design options for your particular circumstances.

• Briefing meetings, site visit, site photos
• Confirm planning & building permit requirements
• Full site measure up
• Options for floor plans, elevations and concept sketches
• Preliminary cost estimate
• Presentation of sketch design

planning permit documentation

The exterior of a house down to size and placement of windows and the final materials chosen must fixed at this stage or approval delays will occur.

• Develop approved sketch plan option into CAD drawings
• All drawings required for planning permit submission to council including site analysis & design response plans & report, exterior materials and colour schedule, and shadow diagrams
• Preliminary discussions with structural engineer and quantity surveyor
• Presentation of permit drawings
• Submission of documents for planning permit to council

building permit & construction drawings

Full and coordinated construction drawings and specification ensures the contract with the builder is rigorous and the scope for cost escalation is reduced.

• Documentation (plans, wall elevations, details, joinery and services drawings, and specification) for building permit approval and contract purposes
• Liaison with structural engineer and interior designer
• Submit completed contract documents to building surveyor for building permit approval
• Prepare protection of works drawings for neighbours if required

tendering and negotiation

There is often more than 50% difference between tenders for construction. A competitive tender is generally the most transparent way of obtaining the best price.

• Tender to selected builders and respond to enquiries from tenderers
• Assess tenders and negotiate with preferred tenderer

contract administration

The architect is an independent administrator of the contract to resolve unexpected issues in building construction. No need for client arguments with the builder.

• Prepare contract documents and administer contract signing
• Site visits to monitor quality control, materials and performance as described in contract
• Assess progress claims and issue progress certificates
• Prepare defects list
• Issue the practical completion certificate
• Monitor the rectification of defects & incomplete work
• Issue the final certificate after 6 month defects liability period