Working with a building designer or architect for your house design is a unique experience, and each designer will follow a slightly different process.

My process is to offer a holistic service where you are supported from start to finish. I become your Project Manager as well as building designer, and will be with you every step of the way to make sure the right documents are submitted in the right way.

I’ll liaise with your local Council and any Consultants involved in your project, and will take care of the approval aspects and proposals for your build. I’ll give you advice along the way that makes the whole design and approval process smoother, faster and more cost effective for you.

Step 1: Briefing        

We’ll start with a conversation about what you want, your likes and dislikes, your budget and how your ideas will work in relation to your site, topography and aspect. Once we’ve worked out a rough plan for your vision, I can provide you with a quote.

Step 2: Agreement

Your quote will contain a fee structure and will outline the various stages of work, a payment schedule and a timeline for the design and documentation process. Once I have your approval for the work outlined in the quote and your deposit payment, work can begin.

Step 3: Site Survey

I will take a closer look at your site (if not already done in the briefing stage). I will inspect the site, assess any existing buildings and surrounding properties, measure the site and carry out a photographic survey.

The information collected during the initial site visit is used to start the basic sketch designs and produce CAD plans. If needed, I will also liaise with surveyors to conduct a site feature and level survey.

I will also review any guidelines or planning regulations relevant to your site, as these can have an impact on the overall design. Your design must comply with certain regulations before it can gain building approval.

Step 4: Schematic design

Based on your brief and the information collected during the site inspection, I will draw an initial schematic design and develop a concept. You will be presented with a floor plan that we can then alter if necessary.

Step 5: Final design and Sign Off

Once any changes are made, you’ll be shown the final design. This will include a floor plan as well as a 3D view, and we can make final changes if needed.

Step 6: Development Application

Once you’ve approved and signed off on the final design, I will create a Development Application to be lodged with Council. Council requires all building designs to comply with various planning controls before they are given Development Consent.

Planning controls are taken into consideration during the design stage, however if the design does not meet the planning controls, approval is still possible but may require further information.

Step 7: Construction Certificate

Development Application consent from Council, as well as a Construction Certificate, are both required before you can start building. The Construction Certificate contains more detail about how your structure will be built, such as specifications and structural engineer drawings.

Complying and Exempt Development

Occasionally, new buildings, extensions and granny flats that are a straightforward development only require a Complying Development code to approve construction. This is a fast tracked process for gaining approval without the need for a full development application.

Minor renovations usually don’t need any planning or building approval, and this is called Exempt Development. Exempt Development can include small decks, garden sheds, carports and fences.

If your building design fits the eligibility requirements for either Complying or Exempt Development, we can use one of these approval methods.

Gaining building approval can sometimes be a tricky process. I will ensure your design meets all the compliance regulations and advise you on the best approach for obtaining approval.

Call 0401 789 133 to discuss your plans for a new home