The design process for any architectural project goes through multiple stages of varying time lengths that are tailored to suit your project.
1.
RESEARCH
I
SITE VISIT / INITIAL MEETING
Our process begins with a site visit. This allows us to get a better understanding of your brief, lifestyle, design aspirations and any design ideas you may have in mind. We will give you feedback along with setting expectations and outline deliverables.
After this, we’ll issue a fee proposal for the design stage with information, fees and timeframes around the next stages so you know what to expect moving forward.
II
GATHER KEY
SITE-SPECIFIC INFORMATION
This is to help us uncover new insights and highlight any potential design issues. For renovations, we will carry out a full site measure of your property and documentation. In some cases we’ll suggest getting a surveyor to carry out a full site survey.
2.
DESIGN
I
INITIAL CONCEPT PRESENTATION
We’ll produce a set of architectural drawings for your project as an initial concept. This includes site plans, floor plans, elevations, perspectives, renders (digital imagery) and relevant precedent images.
We’ll then invite you to a presentation of the concept and provide a digital and physical copy of the drawings. This can be done remotely or in our office.
Our design team will work with you to refine the design or offer new ideas to achieve your ideal outcome.
II
ESTIMATES
From an independent quantity surveyor or your selected builder. These are generally rough estimates but a good indication as to whether the project is feasible.
III
DEVELOP AND REFINE DESIGN
Through developed design we will refine the design and implement key building elements and structure. This will include cross sections, framing plans and key construction details. Through this stage we will engage all relevant consultants to get underway. This may include the geotech engineer, planner, civil engineer, structural engineer, kitchen designer.
3.
DOCUMENTATION
I
TENDERING & FINAL PRICING
A resource consent may be required for your project. In this case we’ll work with a planner to prepare and lodge a resource consent
II
DETAILED DESIGN (BUILDING CONSENT DOCUMENTATION)
We’ll continue the developed design phase through to detailed drawings and specifications. This is the most in depth part of the design process as we dive into all the finer details of your project. This will include a full set of plans, construction details, materials, components, systems and finishes. This then allows us to set up and apply for building consent with your local district council.
III
TENDERING & FINAL PRICING
Now with a completed, detailed set of drawings, an accurate pricing process can begin with your selected builder or we can discuss suitable tendering or negotiation options.
IIII
COUNCIL SUBMISSION
Your consent(s) can now be lodged with your local district council. We will coordinate and respond promptly to any council RFIs (request for further information) sent through to ensure the consent process does not get held up. We generally allow 4-8 weeks for the consent to be granted.
4.
CONSTRUCTION —
COMPLETION
During the construction phase of work, we can carry out site visits to monitor the construction and ensure it is in accordance with the construction documents, the performance criteria required for your project, and is of the desired high level of quality.
Construction is the most critical phase of your project, and we work collaboratively with your builder to ensure your project’s success. We help the builders with technical interpretation of the documents, provide clarification to site queries, and work closely with the builder to find the best resolutions to any unexpected site issues that may arise during construction.