Below is an outline of how a typical project would be staged from the initial contact, up until project completion. It should be noted that each project is unique and therefore the services offered can be tailored to suit the clients requirements and budget.

The process commences with a meeting between the client and the designer. During the initial meeting, either on site or in the office, we discuss your ideas. These can come in the form of reference images or layouts, or even just the spaces you would like included in the home. This will form the basis of the project brief.

The brief will then be assessed against the site conditions including local planning regulations, climate and topography, along with the budget and client lifestyle. At this stage a land surveyor is engaged to visit the site and create a topographical survey plan of the site. This forms a crucial part of the design input allowing the concept to be developed to accurately reflect the site conditions.

The brief is then manifested into an initial concept design. The extent of the documentation can range from initial sketches to a concept design document set including plans, elevations and 3D views. These are presented in person in a meeting between the designer and the client.

Once the original concept design has been presented, the design is then refined based on the clients feedback. We collaborate, detailing the concept to a stage the designer and client are satisfied with the layout and presentation of the house.

At this stage, if a builder has been selected, the plans are sufficiently detailed for a construction cost estimate.

Depending on the site conditions and the project, the concept plans may need to be issued to the local council for a development approval. This will be completed using the services of a town planning consultant.

Upon agreement and approval of the concept design, the project is ready for detailed documentation. This involves taking the plans and elevations and creating a series of technical drawings along with a written specification.

Within this process other consultants such as but not limited to structural engineers, geotechnical engineers and energy efficiency assessors will be engaged on the clients behalf. The communication is administered between the designer and the consultants with the fees paid directly by the client. All fees are presented to and approved by the client, prior to any engagements.

The collaboration between the designer and the subconsultants will culminate in the production of a package of documents which will form the basis the details the builder will use to quote the project. From these documents, the builder will provide a price for the project and a contract for the construction. The builder will then submit the package of design documents, the signed contract and copies of licences and insurances to a private certifier for lodgement with the local council.

The selection of a builder for the project is of the upmost importance. The builder, like the designer, is integral to creating the desired project outcome. The builder should have a reputation for delivering quality builds and maintaining a good relationship with the client throughout the build and beyond. I have been fortunate to work with some of the best builders in the Whitsundays and can assist with the selection of the builder which will best suit the project.

In addition to this, I have worked with owner builders on their projects and found these to be some of the most rewarding, with the project detailing tailored to suit their requirements.

Once the builder has been selected and the documents have been approved and lodged with the council, the construction can commence. During this stage if the client prefers, the designer can remain involved in the project. This service involves making regular site visits, answering questions from the client or builder, providing additional detailing, resolving any design issues and amending selections. This also assists in providing the client with peace of mind that the house is constructed as per the design documentation.