There are usually 6 or 7 stages that make up the complete architectural design process as outlined below. Stage No. 4 “Town Planning” is only required if your property has a “planning overlay” or your project is for a dual occupancy, sub-division or you are building on a small allotment (See FAQ Permits). If you do need to obtain a planning permit, the design process will usually stop at stage 4 until the planning permit is issued, which can take between 3 and 6 months.
Architectural Design Stages
- Feasibility Study (optional) = 2 weeks
- Sketch plans drawn to scale to explore the design options for the project including the building envelope, sketch floor plans, boundary setbacks and outdoor spaces
- This stage also usually involves a project budget analysis and costs breakdown.
- Concept Designs = 4 weeks
- Land survey including surrounding properties, levels and boundary re-establishment
- Develop two or three design options for the project
- Refine the preferred design option including simple external designs
- Budget costing review.
- Design Development = 4 weeks
- “3D” external designs, including windows and basic materials selections
- All plans drawn to scale with sizes and dimensions added
- Basic structural elements
- Consult with authorities (i.e. Council, sewer, water, power etc)
- Refine all interior layouts and spaces
- Select all consultants (structural engineer, landscape designer, interior designer, building surveyor).
- Town Planning Documentation & Submission = 2 to 4 weeks (IF REQUIRED)
- Site analysis study
- Written planning submission
- Landscape schematic design, including fencing
- Prepare town planning plans including schedule of external finishes and materials selection
- Planning application forms.
- Detailed Design = 6 weeks
- Fully detailed design drawings including internal and external elevations, joinery, electrical plans, door schedules, sections and 1:20 details
- Roofing plans
- Landscape design
- Full structural engineering plans
- Storm water and plumbing services.
- Interior Design = 4 weeks
- Refine all joinery details including internal wall elevations
- Finishes schedule including selection of all materials
- Selection of all fittings and fixtures
- Feature finishes, window furnishings and feature light fittings
- Schedules of all finishes, colours and fixtures
- “Story board” presentations.
- Final Working Documentation = 2 weeks
- Building permit documents ready for application
- Written specifications
- Final electrical plans
- Final engineering plans
- Building quotation documents.
