Frequently Asked Questions...
What is the difference between a building designer and an architect?
In residential design, building designers and architects do much the same job. As building designers, we can design and detail new homes, renovations, extensions, and developments up to 3-storeys in height.
Is a building designer cheaper than an architect?
Generally speaking, yes. Building designers are more cost effective than architects. As residential projects form the backbone of our business, we are able to focus all of our knowledge and expertise specifically to residential building design.
Are the plans you produce subject to copyright?
With our process you own the copyright for the hard copies of the plans you have paid for. That means you own the plans rather than the builder.
Do you offer 3D visualizations or walkthroughs of the design?
Yes. We use the latest in 3D design software allowing you to be able to visualize your project including realistic renders. For example; we can show you how much light your windows will let in, how much shading particular areas will have, at any time of year and we can give you a sense of space with furniture placement. You can completely visualise your finished project before the ground is broken. We constantly stay up to date with the latest technologies to ensure you benefit from those advances.
Do you offer environmentally sustainable or energy-efficient design options?
Sustainable and energy efficient design is at the building designers core. With 7 Star energy efficiency requirements that have been introduced we are in the process of earning Energy Assessor Qualifications. We pride ourselves in designing with energy efficiency and solar orientation as a priority. We are also experts in the Livable Housing Desing Standards that are now in effect. We are constantly researching sustainable products and best practice building methods to reduce environmental impact.
Can you assist with renovations or extensions, not just new builds?
Yes. We work on all residential building projects up to 3-storeys in height including renovations, extensions, new homes and developments. We love solving the problems of working with an existing home and creating a solution to better service your wants and needs.
What information do we need to provide to get started?
Every client is different. Some clients come to us with little or no idea at all about what they want while others have thoroughly researched everything they like or want to incorporate. We treat every project individually and we cater to every clients’ needs on an individual basis.
To get started we will need:
- the address of your project and a chance to chat with you about what you want to achieve and your potential budget.
- you are welcome to bring images or sketches to help get your ideas across but this is not essential.
How do we communicate and collaborate during the design process?
We love a collaborative approach. We will have regular meetings as well as email and phone communications. At the end of the day it is your home and your project and we want to work with you to achieve the best outcome for you.
Can you help with budgeting and cost estimates?
Yes. We are very in touch with current construction costs for residential projects. Whilst we can give you an idea of budget at the beginning we find that once the completed design and selections and provided, getting properly tendered quotes from builders gives you with the best means to understand the costs before you are enter into a building contract.
Can you arrange for council approval and how can you help with the approval process and ensuring that what is designed will be approved?
We are experts in navigating the Planning Portal. Before we start any project we check the requirements for your project/location and advise you whether or not it is likely to comply and design with timely approvals in mind. We lodge your application for you through the portal and manage the approval process to ensure council queries or clarifications are handled in a timely and professional manner.
Can you help with selections and specifications?
Absolutely. With more than 30 years experience in specifications and selections, we can be a “one stop shop” helping you with everything from internal and external colours, finishes and fixtures as well as joinery design and electrical layouts. We guide you from conception to completion and ensure a seamless and consistent vision.
What if we want to make changes?
A building project is one of the most complex purchases you will make in your life. We go through a very detailed briefing process with our clients before beginning the design. We work with you through the concept design process and tweak the desing to ensure we are “on the same page” before finalising plans for submission to council. This generally results in minimal need for changes from this point. We are more than happy with you to work on a solution and understand that design is a journey. Within reason we work through minor changes from the original brief and if you want to completely change direction, say from an extension to a brand new home, we can quote on that for you.
How long does the design and approval process usually take?
This is dependent on several factors; How long you take to make decisions, whether the project is complying, whether you want to push the boundaries of approvals, and how complex the project is. Generally allowing for you to take time over decisions and assuming there are no delays with councils or external resources, on average your project can be fully designed, specified, approved and be on site within 6 months.
Can we take our plans for builders to use?
Yes, you can take the plans and documents we provide you to any builder you choose to build your project. After over 30 years in the industry we have large network of qualified and experienced builders that we can work with on your behalf. The choice is yours. If you prefer, we can hand-select the right type of builder for your project and work with them right through the construction process to ensure your dream is realised.
