Congratulations!
You have decided now is the time to start working on your ideas, your dreams, and turn them into an actual solid building.
So now what? Where do you start, how does the process work?
The Design Process
The design process is the process of engaging a designer (me) and going through a number of steps to achieve turning your idea into a reality. These steps can, and probably will, vary depending upon the work required as every job is different, but typically the design process consists of:
Stage 1: Sketch design
This stage involves preparing initial drawings for client review and can take anywhere from 2 weeks upwards. It can include: a site measure of the existing house(for a renovation), client meeting to discuss ideas, consider any consultants required, review planning conditions/constraints, sketch design, 3D model.
Stage 2: Planning approval
After the final design is signed off, stage 2 commences.
This stage is all about adding any required documentation from the planning code, as well as details and information from any consultants or authorities, then lodging with council for planning approval. This portion typically takes around 3-5 weeks, but can be a bit longer or shorter.
Stage 3: Working drawings (details, etc)
This stage typically starts once we have received Planning Approval. The drawings will be worked on and details and information will be added, including further notations and details regarding codes and regulations. Selection of materials and some suppliers is advised here to aid in the detailing/specifying stage. This typically takes about 1 week.
Stage 4: Engineering (footings/steel/retaining walls) & Energy Assessment
Once sufficient information has been drawn, the drawings are sent off to the engineer for footing and structural design. The engineer typically takes 3-5 weeks for their calculations and designs.
The drawings are also sent off to an energy assessor to assess the energy efficiency of the building and suggest any additions to help achieve the required goals. Normally we are aiming for a 6-star energy rating. The energy assessor typically takes 1-2 weeks to do their assessment.
Stage 5: Submit for Building Approval
Once all engineering, energy assessments and any other consultants’ drawings and information are received, any required changes are made to the drawings and all the information is collated together. The CITB fee is paid. The drawings are then sent off for Building approval assessment. The building approval can be assessed either by Council, or a Building certifier. This process can take anywhere from 3-5 weeks.
Stage 6: Collate all information and drawings, including 3D models, for client/builder use
Once we have received building approval, all drawings, information, 3D models, CAD files and any other relevant information are collated together for access by the client and the builder.
And that is the design process.
As noted earlier, the steps and times can vary depending what we are working on and who we are dealing with, but the above serves as a good guide of what to expect.
After that, it is on to building your dream!!
