General
Our architecture is characterised by our commitment to create buildings that provide their users with efficient, practical and sustainable solutions that they enjoy living and/or working in. Every building we create is an individual solution - a direct response to site conditions and the requirements and aspirations of our clients. Every project in the office is under the direct control of the Principal, ensuring personal and expert service. This is supported by the allocation of a project architect for its duration, providing continuity and familiarity with all aspects of a project from inception to completion.
Our clients include private individuals and companies, institutions and local and state government authorities across a range of projects. We have worked throughout metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria and are therefore familiar with the issues faced in a variety of Local Government areas.
Architectural services
We provide the full range of architectural services: design, documentation, tendering and contract administration, as well as supplementary services such as feasibility analyses, masterplanning and interior design. We guide our clients through the regulatory, design and construction process from the initial brief to final handover.
Our services include:
Development of project brief
A clearly stated outline of the client’s requirements for a project.
The brief may be very simple or extremely detailed and provides the architect with a guide for developing a design solution for the project. We work closely with our clients to create a document that clearly defines the requirements and desired outcomes of the project.
Site analysis
Gaining a clear understanding of the prevailing conditions that affect a site.
The most significant initial step in most projects, prevailing conditions include landform, the condition and/or the extent and form of existing buildings and structures, climatic and weather influences, regulatory issues and the character of the immediate neighbourhood. We usually work with a land surveyor to ensure that the features of the site and its immediate surrounds are accurately established before developing design proposals.
Concept design
Exploring potential design solutions.
The initial step in the design process, also sometimes called the Schematic Design Stage, this may, if necessary, involve the preparation of several options for consideration by the client.
Design development
Refinement of the preferred design option.
Once the preferred design option has been determined, we will refine the design for final presentation to the client and include a selection of the main materials and finishes and the preparation of a preliminary opinion of probable cost.
Town planning
Preparation of developed design for town planning submissions.
If a Town Planning Permit is required, we will further refine the Developed Design for submission to the local authority including Site Analyses, Design Statements, ResCode Response and Shadow Diagrams. For most projects, we can manage the Town Planning Permit process for our clients, but in complex cases, it may be necessary to work in conjunction with a Town Planning Consultant.
Contract documentation
Preparation of documentation for tendering, submission and construction.
After approval of the Developed Design and/or the Town Planning Permit, we prepare working drawings and specifications that clearly explain the extent of the proposed works, details, materials and the required standard of workmanship for tendering, submission for a Building Permit, and for construction.
Interior Design & Detailing
We have an in-house Interior Design service that ensures the realisation of the project vision extends to the interiors. Detailed documentation of internal elements such as kitchen joinery, bathrooms and amenity areas etc., are prepared for pricing and construction.
Tendering & Building Permit Application
After completion of the construction documentation we will call tenders for the project, then assess and evaluate the tenders received and prepare a recommendation for the client. The Building Permit application documentation is usually prepared and lodged at the same time in readiness for issue after the builder is selected and contracts signed.
Contract administration
During the construction of the project, we administer the contract on our client’s behalf and monitor the progress of the works. These services include:
preparation of contract documents for signing
undertaking site visits and attending site meetings
issuing instructions and directions to the contractor as required
assessing and certifying payments to be made to the contractor
issuing, assessing, referring and authorising contract variations
assessing and ensuring compliance with the documented materials and workmanship
assessing and determining any extensions of time
determining and certifying the date of practical completion
determining faults during the defects liability period
finalising the contract