Architecture. Interior design. Landscape design. Urban planning. At Architecture AVM, we believe a holistic philosophy that encompasses all of these disciplines is the only way to ensure architecture and design fulfils its potential to transform our lives. Only by ensuring that all of these elements work together can we create aesthetically harmonious, practically functional and spiritually satisfying environments.
The process by which we work with our clients – our established methodology – is necessarily synergistic. It’s a partnership. The success of every project depends on our expertise and the skill of our contractors, but also the vision and desire of our clients.
Our methodology – the journey to a holistic solution
Whether we’re tackling a residential, commercial or institutional project, landscape design or urban planning, our methodology follows the same basic blueprint. Clearly, the process is a complex one with many facets involving a host of professionals and regulatory processes, but here is an outline of our methodology and various fee options.
Initial briefing
This is where we meet you, our client, to develop an understanding of your functional requirements, budget and aesthetic preferences, as well as an overview of the site.
Investigate site conditions
We follow up the briefing with a more comprehensive investigation of the site, including existing facilities and site limitations.
Assess applicable codes
Next, we look into any regulations and legislation relating to the site that might affect the direction and progress of the project.
Initial response to the brief
This is where we really start to make inroads into the project. We formulate our initial response to your brief – an initial concept for your approval.
The design proposal, agreement and planning approval
From the initial concept, we develop a design proposal that we use to secure agreement from all parties and create the documentation needed to translate the concept into built form. Then, we submit the application for planning approval to the relevant authorities.
Architectural drawings
At this point, we refine the design proposal into rigorous architectural drawings, incorporating council requirements and defining every detail of the design, from interior and landscape elements through to fittings, fixtures and systems.
Co-ordinating specialists and documentation
Liaising with the specialists required for your project is one of our key responsibilities. At this stage of the process, we co-ordinate information concerning all contractors and suppliers, as well as all the requisite documentation – architectural drawings, specifications, schedules and a bill of quantities – so that the project can proceed according to time and budgetary objectives.
Applications and tendering
Next, we submit applications for a building licence and other relevant permits, before proceeding to administer the tendering process so that you can select a builder. We also administer the project contract between you and your builder, which ensures the project progresses as agreed – we monitor development, evaluate progress claims and resolve any issues or conflict that may arise.
Completion and monitoring
Once complete, we monitor building performance during the Defects Liability Period, which is usually 12 months after completion, after which we oversee the issue of the Final Certificate.
Fees
Architectural fees are charged on a staged basis in one or more of the following contract formats:
- A percentage of the Cost of Works
- A lump sum fee
- An hourly rate
The stages at which fees are required are generally:
- Site record documentation
- Feasibility study
- Schematic design
- Town planning / development application and negotiation
- Design development
- Construction documentation
- Builder selection process
- Construction contract administration
The fees charged by specialist consultants, such as engineers and surveyors, are paid either direct by the client, or through Architecture AVM if you would prefer that we engage third parties on your behalf.
