We always begin our projects with an initial, obligation free consultation. This meeting can be either on-site or at our office in Swanson. This is a chance to meet, get to know each other, and to discuss your project vision and requirements.
An architectural feasibility report is an optional assessment that evaluates a site’s potential and constraints. This report helps to determine if a project vision is viable before committing more time and money. It analyses council zoning, planning rules, site conditions, topography and surrounding context. A feasibilty report is most common for large-scale new builds and developements.
Once you are ready to proceed after our intial conversation, we prepare a service contract. The contract outlines the scope of design work, deliverables, timelines, and fees. Using a formal contract sets clear expectations and protects all parties involved.
Information gathering:
After the contract is agreed, we will gather essential information including:
the certificate of title
drainage plans
zoning details
town planning data
property file from council
Site measure:
We will also conduct a comprehensive site measure to confirm the layout and location of existing buildings. Using this information, we create an accurate ‘as built’ set of architectural drawings, documenting the current conditions of both the buildings and site.
Site survey:
If needed, we can arrange for a site survey to precisely define contours, boundaries, services, and existing structures and landscaping.
Geotechnical report:
A geotechnical report is often commissioned to address any site-specific considerations such as land stability, soil bearing capacity, and storm water flow.
Once the project parameters are defined in the pre-design phase, we will begin the concept design phase of the project. This is where we develop the overall design brief for your project.
Bulk and location:
We begin concept design by exploring the bulk and location of your building, to shape options for the building’s form and internal layout. This phase considers site conditions, budget, and your unique requirements.
Identifying constraints and opportunities:
Through the concept design phase, we identify constraints and opportunities, as well as determine if Resource Consent is necessary.
Concept design options:
During this stage, we may present alternative ideas to make best use of the site and improve design efficiency. It is always good to stay open-minded and clearly communicate your preferences, ensuring that we revisit your initial ideas so that the concept aligns with your goals.
Structural engineer:
During the concept design phase, it is common to engage a structural engineer, to ensure your project is safe and structurally feasible.
The concept design phase provides a response to your brief, presented through architectural drawings, sketches, or digital renderings. We complete the concept design phase with a final agreed design and then proceed through the next project stages.
Your project may require a Resource Consent.
A Resource Consent is required by law when a planned activity may impact the environment, or is not automatically permitted under the district or regional plan. This includes activities like constructing a new building, changing property use, or building in a coastal or heritage zone.
Resource consents ensure that development and land use are sustainable and considerate of environmental and community health, safety, and well-being. They also help manage and mitigate potential adverse effects on the environment and neighbouring properties.
By obtaining resource consent, you demonstrate that the environmental and community impacts of your project have been thoughtfully addressed and minimised.
Once a concept design is agreed, we develop the design to test ideas, and refine details, such as:
external cladding,
fixtures for bathroom, kitchen and joinery
Colours and finishes.
Developed design is a crucial phase, as it is your last opportunity to finalise the project’s scope and design before construction documentation begins. If you have additional requirements, now is the time to discuss them.
Construction budget:
During developed design, your budget comes into focus, and engaging a quantity surveyor for a preliminary cost estimate may be beneficial. If you have a preferred builder, they may also provide advice on costs. Although estimating final building costs is challenging, quantity surveryors and builders are experienced at identifying potential expenses and can help you form estimates based on their expertise.
Consultants:
Throughout this phase, we work closely with other consultants to ensure all information is coordinated and meets the building code. Other consultants that may be required include:
structural engineers,
geotechnical engineers,
stormwater engineers, and
town planners (if Resource Consent is required).
Once developed design is approved by all parties, your project advances to the detailed design phase.
At this stage, we will refine the design to a level of detail that enables a construction contractor, (your builder) to evaluate the full project scope.
Construction drawings specify assembly details, materials, components, systems, and finishes. These documents, together with reports from other consultants, form the comprehensive working drawings.
Building Consent:
Because we are at the heart of your building project, we are well-placed to understand the necessary codes and standards and can communicate the specifics of your project to the Building Consent Authority.
The documentation package that includes construction drawings and consultant reports, are submitted to your local council, where it will be assessed for compliance with the building code, before a Building Consent is granted.
Once the Building Consent has been approved, our contract is complete. If required, we can work with you to select the right builder for your project. SBK does not offer construction supervision services but will continue to support you with any queries or clarfications during the build.