Step by step process

Click on the steps to the left to view the process

1. Pre-design & Site Analysis

Includes the gathering of all information required prior to commencing design.
Scope of work would typically include; site analysis, measure up, develop brief, gather all council related information, advice on separate consultants                                    
 
You may already have a lot of this information.

  • Allow 1-2 weeks for this process.
2. Preliminary Sketch design

We begin by relating your requirements to the site, taking into consideration things such as views, orientation, existing trees/ structures, site constraints, town-planning requirements, easements and other applicable factors. These considerations will form the parameters for the preliminary design. At this stage we will initially be concerned with overall space planning and developing exterior forms. Possible consideration of materials and colours will be addressed at this stage.
 
We will typically prepare proposed layout plans, a couple of key external sketches and a study section.
 
Your feedback will be incorporated into the design at this stage and carried through into the Developed Design stage where we begin detailed design work.
 
Client sign-off is required prior to commencing with the next stage of service 

  • Allow 2-3 weeks for this process.
  • Budget Estimate to be provided by QS or Builder (Allow 1-2 weeks for Builder)
3. Developed Design

The agreed design would then be developed, evolving structural design and services issues. We will finalise space planning (indoor and outdoor), exterior forms and materials. The engagement of the required Consultants for the project, should also be confirmed at this stage.
 
Developed sketch drawings will typical be produced as resolved floor plans, site plan and elevations, including key study sections and may also include a developed computer model or perspective sketch to further illustrate the concept and sufficient to obtain a PIM (project information memorandum) from the local authority.
 
We recommend engaging an independent quantity surveyor at this stage, to gain more comprehensive costing as a check against your budget and to make any adjustment to our fee.

  • Allow 2 weeks for this process.
  • Budget Estimate to be reviewed by QS or Builder (Allow 1-2 weeks for Builder)

Resource Consent. (if required)
 
This work would be performed on a time charge basis (refer charge rates in disbursement schedule) and would typically be inclusive of the following; a written assessment of effects; additional drawings/documents required for neighbours sign-off; Resource Consent lodgment at council; answer council queries; changes to the design if council or neighbours do not give approval. 

  • Developed Design and Resource Consent Documentation lodged for Resource Consent. Allow 6-8 weeks for processing.

Client sign-off is required prior to commencing with the next stage of service

4. Contract Documentation

Further development of the design and the necessary documentation would be prepared as required for Building Consent, Tendering, and Construction of the works (all dependent on scope of service provided).
 
Please note that base drawings would be provided for the kitchen only as from our experience we find it best to involve a kitchen/cabinetry company in the detailed design of the kitchen.
 
Please refer to attached drawing list for deliverables during this phase.
 
Architectural Drawing list (Typical & initial only)

  • Site Plan
  • Demolition Plan
  • Drainage plans & Schematics
  • Floor Plan - lower
  • Elevations
  • Foundation plan
  • Floor framing plan
  • Roof framing plan
  • Roof plan
  • Sections
  • Construction details
  • Window & Door schedule
  • Electrical Lighting plan (base only as the best is to involve the lighting supplier/ designer to provide some detailed input here)
  • Specification - MasterSpec
  • Manufactuers Specifications/Warranties

(Exclusions:)
Detailed Component drawings for Interiors i.e. Kitchens & Bathrooms etc 

  • Allow 4-5 weeks for this process. Consultants such as engineers etc are relied upon during this stage and may extend the time allocated due to reasons out side of our control.
  • QS or Builder to provide actual quote based on completed Contract Documentation (Allow 3-4 weeks for Builder)
  • Contract Documentation lodged for Building Consent. Allow 6-8 weeks for processing.
5. Tendering and Negotiations

We offer our clients a schedule of services we see as appropriate for this phase, with an associated hourly rate charge.
The tendering processes is inclusive of the following; 

  • Preparation of contract documentation
  • Preparation of tender documents
  • Assessing suitable contractors
  • Calling of tenders

  • Answering queries from the various contractors and sub-contractors
  • Make document revisions and issue any notices to tenders
  • Receiving tenders
  • Analysing the received tenders including checking tender compliance
  • Recommending a main contractor and letting the tender Prepare/ present tender report
  • Notify tenders
6. Construction Phase (Contract Administration)

We offer our clients a schedule of services we see as appropriate for this phase, with an associated hourly rate charge. We would like the opportunity to negotiate fees for this phase once the type of Contract and particular Contractor have been selected.
 
We would like to confirm with you your requirements for Construction phase services once Contract Documentation is nearing completion.
 
We would recommend that any works are undertaken under an appropriate NZIA Contract.
 
Construction phase time typical involves;

  • Scheduling and recording minutes from regular site meetings,
  • Answering project queries and resolving architectural matters/ details,
  • Processing instructions in the form of; variation price requests, Site instructions and variation orders,
  • Ensuring prices are fair and reasonable,
  • Administrating and certifying project payments
  • Checking of Shop drawings
  • Providing any additional drawings/ details, as required to provide clarity on site.
  • Inspecting and approving  practical completion
  • Administrating maintenance defects during the maintenance period,
  • Approving final completion.