In this stage, I get to know the existing home through a detailed site measure and survey, 2D drawings and photographs. Applicable site constraints, opportunities and planning controls are researched too. This information forms the basis upon which design ideas can be explored.

Building on the previous stage, this is where your brief is interrogated and initial design ideas are developed. Through 2D drawings & basic 3D modelling, we look at the options available to you, and start to refine the planning layout. Once a general plan is established, I will encourage you to engage a Quantity Surveyor to review the estimated cost to aid in discussions around budget.

Once you are happy with the general design and the initial budget advice, we start to add the next layer of detail. The 3D model is developed with external finishes, glazing and general interiors so we can start to see the home taking shape. The goal at the end of this stage is to have a design that will be lodged with local Council for planning assessment.

In this stage, I will prepare the necessary documentation for submission with local Council. This typically involves the co-ordination of other consultants, such as engineers, town planners and landscape designers. You will engage such consultants but I will manage the interaction. Once the DA submission is ready, I will lodge this on your behalf and manage any negotiations with Council during the assessment process. Please note that the planning process is complex and planning approval cannot be guaranteed.

You may have heard of a Complying Development Certificate (aka CDC) before. This is an approval pathway that is done via a Private Certifier, bypassing Council. Not all projects are able to be done as a CDC but this is something that we will look into as the project develops. If the CDC approvals route is permissible & selected, Stage 4 is not required and the CDC documentation will be prepared in Stages 5 & 5a.

Once Council approval is received, I start to document the entire project thoroughly so that builders can accurately price (& eventually build) your home. This is by far the most time consuming part of my involvement, as every little detail is discussed and designed with you. From the kitchen to lighting, paint colours to door handles - everything is considered. At the end of this stage you will have a hefty drawing package that encapsulates the extent of your project, ensuring that the design you have invested in to date is what gets built.

The final authority hurdle between you and construction starting is the Construction Certificate. At this point you will be ready to formally engage a builder via a building contract. I will lodge a version of the documentation outlined in Stage 5 above with a Private Certifier who then grants you permission to start building.

This stage tends to overlap with 5a. Whilst the project is being priced by a selection of builders, I will be preparing the CC documentation concurrently. At the end of this stage you will have signed a building contract with your preferred builder and you are ready to start building!

Throughout the duration of the build I will act as your agent by administering the building contract. This is done through regular site meetings, meeting notes and assessing and valuing payment claims and certificates.

Once the build reaches "Practical Completion" the defects inspection has been carried out and the Occupation Certificate has been granted, you can move into & start enjoying your new home!