Stage 01 - Concept & FeasibilityEvery site is different, with it's own constraints and opportunities, and how a building is positioned and orientated will have a significant impact on its performance and liveability.
The initial stage is to assess the site context for views, shading, prevailing wind, access, services; the list goes on. Often the client will have in-depth knowledge of the site which is invaluable. This is assessed alongside council requirements, subdivision constraints, covenants, etc to assess how we can best utilise the site, while also balancing the clients requirements and budget. The design process is a partnership between the client, the designer, and the wider project team. Other consultants input will usually be required early on - planners, civil and geotechnical engineers, a site survey - we can advise who you will need and recommend professionals we have worked with previously. If you have a builder you'd prefer to work with we prefer to get them involved early, to make sure we are all on the same page. A range of techniques are applied to assess, interrogate and refine designs - sketches and models begin the process, with all projects eventually developed in 3D CAD to ensure the design is fully understood. During the process, the 3D CAD model will be issued to the client along with 2D drawings, to enable them to explore the design in 3D on their device or computer. As soon as the initial orientation and form is defined, an energy model is produced. This assesses the climate, context and building form to display how the building will perform, using a predictive energy model. It allows us to see what performance level the building is achieving, and provide us with the confidence that we are making the right decisions around the design and specification at an early stage. |
Stage 02 - Developed DesignOnce the concept form and site layout is suitably refined, we move onto developed design. During this process we make decisions around materials, finishes, joinery sizes - the elements that make up the building. At this point an embodied carbon model is produced. This assesses the climate impact of the design, and gives clarity on any potential improvements we can make.
Through this process an outline specification is produced and refined, and once the drawings and specification are satisfactory, they are issued for pricing. While we always bear budgets in mind when designing, construction prices are volatile and changeable. We never want to design something a client can not afford, so require pricing by a QS and/or a builder at the completion of Developed Design phase to see where it is sitting, prior to moving onto the next steps. |
Stage 03 - Detailed DesignWhen the pricing is acceptable, we can then move onto the detailed design phase. This is when the construction documentation is produced, and all of the plans, sections, elevations, details and compliance documentation is created.
During this stage we will also coordinate the input from other consultants - structural engineers designs, shop drawings for joinery or prefabricated elements, etc. The amount of documentation required will differ project to project, however usually includes at a minimum: Drawings:
Once finalised this is all collated and submitted to the relevant council for Building Consent. At this point the Passive House Certification and Homestar Certification applications are submitted, if included. |
Stage 04 - ConstructionConstruction monitoring adds significant value to any project. After months of designing, drawing, detailing and modelling the building in 3D, the Architect is aware of every junction, decision and complexity in the design, and are best placed to ensure the project achieves the required outcomes and finish.
We do also recognise that budgets aren't endless though, so will work with each client to assess the appropriate level of monitoring to balance the budget, and the overall project outcomes. For every WEL project airtightness testing is a requirement, to assess the quality of the envelope and construction. Two tests are required - one before the interior linings are installed, and one at the end of the construction process to assess the final level of performance and quality; and ensure each client is moving into a healthy, durable and low energy home. |
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