Working with an architect
and why use one?
As architects we are professionals, trained to turn spatial needs and desires into built outcomes. We will help guide you through the various stages of your building project from initial project conception through to realisation. A space or building, whether it be a new building or refurbishment designed by an architect will be functional, fit-for-purpose, simple, beautiful, energy efficient and cheaper to operate, responsive to the environment and make your life better.
Here at LWA we have the ability to offer the full range of architectural services which include:
Pre-purchase study
Concept design
Design development
Town planning
Construction documentation
Tendering
Contract administration
STAGES IN THE DESIGN AND BUILDING PROCESS:
Introduction
If you have a building project in mind and would like to progress your ideas, an initial induction meeting with us is a good place to start. This meeting will help to determine if we are the right fit for each other and provides an opportunity to discuss your brief and budget. Before the meeting it is helpful to consider what your main goal and aspirations for the project are. This may include functional layout requirements, rooms required, spatial priorities and visual inspiration. Once we have an understanding of your brief, site and budget we will use this to provide a fee proposal.
Concept design
We will work closely with you to understand your brief and uncover any unforeseen potential. This includes a detailed site investigation which may include measuring up existing buildings, understanding the surrounding environmental conditions, historical context and any constraints or requirements imposed by planning overlays and zoning. Depending on the size and nature of the work a licensed land surveyor may be required to produce a detailed site survey. We will use a mix of 2d sketches and 3d images to help visualize and convey the conceptual ideas to you. We understand the importance of designing within budgets and therefor at every stage of the process we review the design against the budget.
Design Development
The preferred design is developed into details in preparation for construction and we guide you through various processes including material and finishes selection, fixtures and fittings recommendations, built in furniture design and room layouts. We will coordinate with specialist consultants to provide their input into the design and confirm how the project cost is tracking either by a Quantity Surveyor or estimated building rates based on previous experience.
Permit requirements
Typically, most building projects require a Building Permit but not always a Town Planning Permit. We will act on your behalf and liaise with the relevant authorities to prepare the documents and submission for any permit applications.
Construction Documentation
The finer details of the design are worked through and documents are prepared for tendering out the works. We are able to advise on the preferred method of tendering, liaise with tenderers during this process and facilitate the signing of a building contract between yourself and the builder.
Contract Administration
During the construction of the project we are able to offer advice and assistance which ensures the design and structural integrity of the project is upheld, through monitoring time, quality and cost. This is carried out through periodic site inspections, assessing variations, instructing the builder and processing and certifying payment claims.
Every project is unique and the level of services required will differ, therefore we are able to tailor the level of architectural services provided to meet your project requirements.
Please get in touch if you have any questions or would like to discuss a project you have in mind.
Memberships:
