Our DESIGN services

We offer residential design services from initial site and project feasibility assessments, to complete, detailed design and documentation for consent and construction. Our service can extend to on-site observation and administration, guiding you through the process from concept to completion.

Kitchen, bathroom, and cabinetry design are important elements of our services. Thoughtful design in these key areas fundamentally shapes how a space functions and feels, playing a vital role in the overall success and harmony of your home. Developed designs for these elements are included in our design package, and we also offer detailed design services or collaborate closely with interior designers to ensure the design intent is fully realised—resulting in a seamless, cohesive outcome.

OUR PROCESS

We start by talking with you, either over the phone or in person at your place or on your site. We want to hear your vision, understand what you're looking for and discuss how we can help.

We start the journey by offering a Pre-Design Service.

At the completion of this service, you’ll receive a comprehensive package summarising your project - it will contain a thorough assessment of site conditions and constraints, a feasibility assessment on your brief, our timeframes, services we will offer, and a fee proposal. We can also organise a Topographical Survey and provide an overall indicative cost plan for the project. It's also a great chance for us to get to know each other a little and see if we're a good fit before committing to the full architectural service. 

Once you’ve engaged our professional services, we begin the first stage of Concept Design; we will analyse and develop your brief further and your site in depth, considering the landscape, natural site features, sunlight, wind, shelter, views, privacy and legal requirements. 

We then develop design concepts, balancing your vision with your budget. We often present you with more than one sketch design, allowing us to refine your project brief and test both your ideas and ours. This process is informed by detailed site analysis and getting to know your needs better.

Preliminary Design: The concept design is then refined and developed in greater detail, incorporating feedback and agreed directions from the concept design stage. The design is developed with greater accuracy and consideration of structural and construction aspects. At this stage, we also engage in further discussions with the Council to ensure compliance with the development controls. We’ll review material choices and identify the need for specialist consultants. Preliminary design drawings will include CAD floor plans, elevations, basic sections, and a 3D model. To ensure feasibility and cost-effectiveness, we involve the builder whenever possible to provide insight on construction costs and buildability. And before moving forward, a cost review is conducted to provide an updated estimate of the likely building expenses.

Although we endeavour to design a home within the permitted planning rules, often in coastal locations a Resource Consent is required. If so, we will do it as early in the design process as possible to provide surety moving forward. This is usually at the end of the Preliminary Design stage and before going to far into Developed Design stage. We would arrange engagement of a Planning Consultant to prepare an application to Council and likely other specialists required by Council such as Arborists, Geotechnical Consultants etc.

Developed Design is fine tuning the design from which detailed drawings and contract documents for building consents can be prepared. We will also create interior and exterior visuals for key areas like like kitchens, bathrooms, fireplaces, and joinery details, along with preliminary schedules of materials, finishes, and components. We coordinate closely with engineers and quantity surveyors to bring everything together. At this stage, we’ll clarify which parts of the project are locked in with no more changes possible, and highlight any decisions that need to be made quickly to keep things moving.

Once all key decisions are locked in and the design is finalised, we begin the Detailed Documentation stage for the purposes of a Building Consent Application. This stage also includes co-ordinating the other consultants’ documentation. We provide plans, elevations, sections and details for the main body of the work. These will describe materials, finishes and construction details. This stage will include consultation with Council / Building Consent Authorities, complete co- ordination of Separate Consultants detailed documentation. A Quantity Surveyor or the engaged Builder will re-confirm the project cost estimate and time-line. We will identify and agree on the preferred procurement method. A specification will be provided, including scheduling materials, scope of work, workmanship and finishes.

Procurement & On-Site; For the construction phase, we can assist you in selecting the right builder, whether it's at the initial design stages or after finalising project documents. We provide guidance throughout the builder selection process or manage tender procedures, ensuring that the chosen contractor aligns with your project needs. Throughout construction, we maintain close collaboration with you and the builder, offering oversight of contracts and representing your interests on-site when necessary.

In summary, we carry out the design process in several stages, allowing us to work with you and review the project with you along the way to make sure we’re on the right track.  We produce 3D models and virtual fly-throughs of the space so you can see it from every angle.  We work with engineers and specialist consultants on your behalf.  Our comprehensive process means we apply for consent with everything fully thought out.