The process

Consultation:

Every project is different, and a preliminary consultation can help outline an overall process and identify any hurdles to be overcome. The designer may require a site visit or measure-up of an existing building to be renovated as well as conducting a basic site analysis. Further investigation of the site may include compiling notes identifying the constraints to, design to eg. existing infrastructure, estate design guidelines and covenants and cross checking the local council planning overlays.

A registered survey is usually provided as part of a land contract or otherwise can be purchased separately from a state government organisation. Having this on hand and any other information on the site that you feel may assist the design process is always helpful.

Design Brief:

Along with site and planning notes, compiling as much information as you can, will assist the designer in visualising your ideas and you will help to develop the concept more efficiently. Along with any images and ideas you may have documented, the designer will in most cases complete a detailed list of inclusions. This may cover basic elements of the structural and desired attributes of the design for example: details on the size and intended use of rooms, ceiling and joinery heights, furniture to be accommodated, the style of the roof, materials to be used inside and out, and window and door types. The designer should then have enough information to assess how best to include these items into a sketch for you to review.

Concept / Preliminary Design:

This may begin with a simple sketch or concept, taking into account the information gathered from site investigations and the brief you have provided. This sketch is useful for indicating the basic layout of rooms and scheduling of areas to assist with budgeting.

Progressing to a complete preliminary design will take into consideration any revisions from the concept, information from the design brief and site analysis as well as consideration given to passive design principles such as solar orientation and ventilation. During this process, consultation may be sought with engineers, cabinet makers, surveyors or product manufacturers. This process can be time consuming, however it may be the most critical stage of the process as it will essentially resolve the final design.

A final preliminary design including a site plan, floor plan, elevations and 3D perspectives will generally provide you and your builder with enough information to compile a quote for a building contract.

Working Drawings / Building Approval set:

This final stage will document all building elements within the designer’s scope of works required for construction and final consultation if required by engineers, cabinet makers, surveyors, manufacturers and energy assessors etc. During consultation, some revisions may be required however generally the working drawing plans can then be submitted for council approvals and used for construction with your nominated builder or contractor.