ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
Development of project brief
The brief is a clearly stated outline of the clients requirements for a project. It may be very simple or extremely complex and provides the architect with a guide to the development of the project. We work closely with our clients to create a document that clearly defines requirements and desired outcomes of the project.
Site analysis
The most significant initial step in most projects is to gain a clear understanding of the prevailing conditions that affect the site, including landform, the condition and/or extent of existing buildings and structures, climatic and weather influences, regulatory issues and the character of the immediate neighbourhood.
Concept design
The initial step in the design process, also sometimes called the Schematic Design Stage, involves the exploration of potential design solutions for the project and may, if necessary, involve the preparation of several options for consideration by the client.
Design development
Once the preferred design option has been determined, the design is refined for final presentation to the client and will include selection of the main materials and finishes and the preparation of a preliminary opinion of probable cost.
Town planning
If a Town Planning Permit is required, we will further refine the Developed Design for submission to the local authority. For most projects, we can manage the Town Planning Permit process for our clients, but in complex cases, it may be necessary to work in conjunction with a Town Planning Consultant.
Contract documentation
After approval of the Developed Design and/or the Town Planning Permit, the working drawings and specifications for the project are prepared for tendering and submission for the building permit.
Tendering
After completion of the construction documentation we will call tenders for the project, then assess and evaluate the tenders received and prepare a recommendation for the client.
Contract administration
During the construction of the project, contract administration services include:
- preparation of contract documents for signing
- undertaking site visits and attending site meetings
- issuing instructions and directions to the contractor as required
- assessing and certifying payments to be made to the contractor
- issuing, assessing, referring and authorising contract variations
- assessing and ensuring compliance with the documented materials and workmanship
- assessing and determining any extensions of time
- determining and certifying the date of practical completion
- determining faults during the defects liability period
- finalising the contract