Services

The first step is to discuss your goals for the project. We will have an initial meeting for me to learn about your key objectives, ideas, requirements and preferences.

 

This is an important time for information gathering about the physical space and location. We will also discuss timeframes and budget. 

 

Once we've finished our discussion and information gathering, I will provide you with a design quote confirming the vision for the project, including your needs and requirements. I'll also provide an estimated cost for the architectural design elements of the project. 

The next step is to put together an accurate model of the current site and any existing buildings. Sometimes a surveyor is needed in order to provide a detailed site survey, for example on sites with steep gradients, if the project requires extensive excavation, or if we need accurate details of underground services and utilities. 

 

Once the existing model has been completed we will arrange a site visit to check all the dimensions and take photos (with your permission) to record any existing construction details for reference during the design phase.    

This stage involves the drawing up of a preliminary concept design based on your brief and the discussions we've had at site meetings. You will be able to look over the concept design drawings and provide feedback. This is an opportunity to add, remove or alter things listed in the original design brief.

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Once you've confirmed you're happy with the direction we're going in, I will create the Concept Design Package comprising a series of plans such as floor plans and elevations.  

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By this stage we will have a clearer idea as to whether any additional or specialist expertise will be needed (at extra cost), such as a geotechnical engineer, truss designer or structural engineer. 

The next stage is to develop the concept design package into full working drawings that the contractors will use to construct your project. 

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I will also include calculations and schedules along with the drawings; these are required by the council to demonstrate that the project complies with building codes and regulations. ​

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At the end of this stage we will have a Developed Design Package containing completed plans, specific detail drawings and schedules. 

We are now ready to apply for building consent! I will prepare and submit the consent application to the council, along with supporting documents such as the Certificate of Title and building specification. 

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Not every project requires building consent. But even if consent is not needed, it is still a good idea to get some drawings done, as they will help your builder and tradespeople to understand the scope of the work and provide more accurate pricing. 

Resource consent 

If the project does not comply with the local District Plan then a resource consent will be required. The requirement for a resource consent will normally be identified at the start of the project, when we will discuss the options together: whether to proceed with a resource consent application or to amend the design to comply with District Plan rules. I will take care of most resource consent applications but for more complex situations I can arrange for a resource consent specialist to handle the application. 

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Requests for information (RFIs)

Councils often request clarification or additional information when they have reviewed the building consent application. Most RFIs are straightforward and can be handled through a written response, minor variations or a phone call. If an RFI requires a more in-depth response I will advise you of any cost implications. ​

It takes a number of weeks for a council to process a building consent application; the timeframe will vary according to the complexity of the project and the amount of additional information requested by the council. 

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Once the building consent documents (and resource consent if required) are approved, construction can begin! At this point the architectural designer will typically hand over the project to the contractor.

 

As construction progresses I am still available to answer any questions or provide clarification on aspects of the design. It is also nice to see the finished product after construction; for me it is a great reward to see happy customers enjoying their comfortable, beautiful and functional homes. ​​​