RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
If you are renovating, extending, building a new home, or simply require advice call me on 8296 0759 or mob. 0408 084243 or Email. If you are not sure that you need an Architect you are not alone. I have found that before talking to me many of my clients have been unsure how they can benefit from using Architectural services and many have not even been aware of exactly what an Architect does.
The following list is roughly in the order that I would undertake a residential extension or new build if full Architectural services are required. Many clients only need partial services and so I also offer hourly rates as well as fixed fees. Links will take you through to my main website and include samples of documentation and costs.
- Site Inspections and Site Selection
- Design advice
- Subdivision advice and Plans
- SKETCH DESIGN
- 3d Models and walk-throughs
- Sun-Path and Shadow studies
- Council DAP representation
- Lodgement of Development Plan Approval Documents
- Consultant procurement
- Working Drawings
- Glazing calculations
- Energy compliance
- Consultant Coordination
- Lodgement of Building Rules Approval Documents
- Certification coordination
PROJECT TYPES
The following list are examples of some of the more common project types I have undertaken. It is not by any means exhaustive, socall me on 8296 0759 or mob. 0408 084243 if you have something different in mind.
- Modern Contemporary Architecturally designed new homes and additions
- Heritage and Streetscape sensitive Architectural additions
- Subdivision plans
- Infill development
- Townhouses
- Row houses
- Medium Density Housing
- Country Retreats
- Country homes
- Beach houses
- Swimming pools
- Outdoor and alfresco spaces
- Landscape Design
- Swimming pools
- Swimming Pool enclosures
- Pool Houses and Bars
- Roof space conversions
- Garage conversions
- Teenage Retreats
- Granny flats
WHY USE AN ARCHITECT?
A good residential Architect will help clients navigate through the process of designing their home and obtaining the required Development Approvals from Council. If required the Architect will help select a Builder and then administer the contract throughout the build. Every site and every client is different and so each solution is customised for that situation.
Plans can be drawn by anyone, Architects are more expensive than draftspersons, but they have more training which in turn benefits the client. A minimum of 5 (or 6 depending on course) years at Uni followed by 2 years of practical experience is required before they can sit for their papers. An annual membership subscription is then required. Some Tafe drafting courses can be done in 6 months. Look closely at credentials. Phrases like “Architectural design” or even an Architectural degree are no guarantee that an actual Architect is used on the job. The persons’ or business name followed by the word ARCHITECT are your only guarantee that an actual Architect is involved.
Do not be fooled by builders who offer Design/Build packages. Statements such as “Free plans provided” will ultimately cost you somehow. Nothing is free. You will be locked into that builder as he owns the plans. With no competitive tendering you will pay more. If not locked in then the price will be added into the building price, or there may be variation costs, or perhaps you will just get a one size fits all solution that is not specifically designed for your block. A little bit of extra money spent getting things right from the outset will reap benefits. It also means if you own your own plans you are able to shop around between Builders. You will be comparing the same building rather than similar ones and so you will be making a fully informed decision.