WHY
Because how we feel in a space matters.
Should a space feel like joy, belonging, and connection? Or peaceful and private? Or something else entirely?
Whatever it seeks to be, a space should create enduring value in experience, enjoyment, and economics. It should be a solution that is simple and strip-backed to its bare essentials. It should bring delight. It should appear seemingly obvious and effortless, like the space could be no other way.
HOW
By seeking to understand the individual and the unique way they wish to feel, experience and use a space.
By uncovering and defining the aspiration for the space, whilst acknowledging the physical parameters.
By refusing to allow a predetermined design outcome, but instead allowing opportunities to be discovered.
By working effectively in a context of scarcity: scarce space, materials, resources, budget.
By planning space which is not arbitrary or subjective, but which has a clear purpose to capture a desired intent.
By retaining simplicity in design amidst the complex layers that must be assembled.
By orchestrating materials and finishes to create a seamless whole.
PROCESS
INITIAL MEETING & BRIEFING
An initial meeting gives the opportunity to discuss what your project is about, and if it’s something we can pursue. Come with your aspirations, goals, background information, and an idea of project budget.
FEE PROPOSAL
The initial meeting helps establish the scope of the project, and the meeting is followed up with a fee proposal which summarises the initial brief, and sets out the relevant scope, stages and fee for the project.
CONCEPT DESIGN
The concept design process synthesizes the qualitative aspirations with the physical constraints of the project. The brief is tested, and a hierarchy of competing priorities is established. Design options are explored, appraised and curated. The concept design process results in floor plan options. There may be a series of options available, or the process may create one key design direction.
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
This stage takes on board feedback following the concept design presentation and provides further design development based on this. The design of the building form is then explored, including use of materials and how the building works in section and elevation. The stage results in an illustrative 3D computer model.
INTERIOR DESIGN
Interior design is integral to the space and is an extension of the architecture. Detailed design of internal elements (kitchens, bathrooms, joinery, etc) is provided, and internal materials and finishes throughout.
APPROVALS
Various approvals are required for differing project types and zonings. Management of approval processes is provided, with submissions and liaison with authorities made on your behalf. Approval types may include Planning Approval, Utility Approvals, Driveway Approvals, Tree Approvals, Building Approval, etc.
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION
The construction documentation stage provides a co-ordinated, finely-resolved, clearly communicated package of documentation for construction. This stage is critical in ensuring the design intent is carried through to execution. The stage also involves co-ordination with consultants such as Structural Engineer, Energy Assessor, Building Certifier, etc. The stage results in a set of construction documentation drawings and schedules.
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
Contract Administration can occur when the ABIC SW building contract is used (a contract jointly published by the Master Builders of Australia Limited & Australian Institute of Architects) which requires the Architect to act as the Superintendent. Throughout construction the Architect inspects the construction works to observe the general conformance with the building contract documents and instructs regarding design quality control and performance. The Architect also assesses builder’s progress payment claims, extensions of time, variations, and administers the defects liability period.
ADVICE DURING CONSTRUCTION
Rather than having a contractual role in the administration of the contract between you and the builder, the architect can instead provide an informal role of ‘advice during construction’ (such as when an HIA or MBA contract is used). This involves liaising with the builder on your behalf, such as attending site meetings, providing advice on design quality and detailing, responding to queries from the builder, providing clarification in regards to the construction documentation, and advising you on items requiring response or attention.