Welcome, it might have taken you a while to get here.
You may have arrived here with a comprehensive brief or a sense of how you want to feel.
Maybe you just know there’s something better on the other side of that wall.
Each project is different. Whether you have a new build or a renovation, I work closely with you to tailor my services to suit your project.
Here is a broad look at how I approach architectural projects, from the first conversation to the day you move in.
What do you need for your space to contribute to your wellbeing?
You might need a place for your prized coffee machine, a bath with a window overlooking the garden, a place of respite from the kids.
Pre-Design sets up the framework for the Concept Stage. During this stage, I will meet with you to discuss your goals, constraints, and vision for the project. I will visit your site or space, analyse how it works (or doesn't), and identify what's possible and what's not. In doing so, we will define your brief.
We will start the conversation about potential builders and I will have initial conversations with a town planner so I can consider any planning considerations relevant to your project.
By the end of this stage, a framework will be in place in the form of your brief and budget, the existing site conditions and external advice. We will both know what you are trying to achieve, why, and what success looks like for you.
With a framework in place, we can explore possibilities.
Each project is different; some have a clear answer while others might start with several hand drawn sketch designs.
You might see sketches, 3D models, or rendered images depending on what is needed to tell the visual story.
We will talk through the trade-offs to find the right balance between budget, brief and your wish list. This is a collaborative process. An exploration of possibilities until we find something that feels right to you.
At the end of this stage, you will have a defined concept with floor plans and renders that consider materiality and the landscape context.
This is where the concept becomes a complete design.
Design Development typically starts with incorporating your feedback from the concept stage.
If council approval is required for your project, applications will be lodged during this stage. I liaise with the town planner, respond to any requests for information, and together we work toward an approval.
As we refine the design together, I am ensuring everything is thoroughly thought through so that when we move to construction drawings, the process is efficient.
I will typically engage with builders at this stage to test the design against reality.
By the end of this phase, council approval is secured (if needed), your feedback has been incorporated, and the design is locked in and ready for the detailed documentation stage.
By this stage you’re about halfway through the documentation stage.
Detailed construction drawings aim to minimise price variations and construction questions during the build.
Along with the base building package, I develop detailed drawings and specifications for the interiors, including kitchen layouts and specifications, lighting design and fixture schedules, along with material schedules.
Throughout this stage, I also prepare and lodge the building approval application with the certifier.
By the end of this phase, you have comprehensive, detailed construction drawings that a builder can work from, all building approvals are in place, and we're ready to move to site.
Now the fun starts!
Depending on your project, we may have weekly site meetings or the occasional check in.
It’s inevitable that questions arise during construction and I will be here to work through these with the builder.
If you'd like to discuss your project, I would love to hear from you.
