Services

Overview

SandS Building Design

Whether it is a new Residential, Commercial or Industrial building or the renovation of it, good design is the single most important element in making a project a success. A design really is the foundation for any project, and investment in excellent design is likely to pay for itself time and time again. A well-considered, site specific design, will not be modified onsite (which is the main reason for time & budget blow-outs); a well-presented design has a greater chance of obtaining planning approval; a comprehensive set of drawings is less likely to result in interpretive errors by tradesman on site.

The choice of 'design and designer' is the means to the success of your building project, and you must approach the decision with an open mind, as cost cutting on design can be a grave false economy.

Every site is unique with its own set of problems and possibilities. SandS Building Design works to overcome the problems and reach the full potential of the possibilities.

Preliminaries

SandS Building Design

Initially clients and potential clients make an appointment for a free pre-engagement meeting which usually lasts 1/2 an hour. We will discuss in broad terms what you wish to accomplish on your site and at what budget. Typically the client may have a wish list containing the number and type of rooms along with the desired interior/exterior styling. Examples of similar projects will be presented along with a description of the process that will be undertaken to achieve the desired outcome.

Fee Proposal

SandS Building Design

Using the information gathered from the preliminary meeting along with further investigation into the site, a fee proposal will be prepared. Our fee proposals are easy to read and understand paving the way for a transparent relationship.

Planning

SandS Building Design

When a building designer is engaged to prepare house plans for a specific lot; the very first step undertaken is to visit the site for appraisal. Such characteristics as aspect, topography, geology, vegetation, drainage, access, prevailing winds, views, privacy, streetscape and existing infrastructure will all be considered before a preliminary concept is developed. The next step is to discuss the project with the local council to ascertain their requirements. Council requirements today are very complex and are often beyond the understanding of the average property owner. Council requirements can include boundary set-backs, height limits, floor space ratios, building envelopes and many other requirements.

Design Concept

SandS Building Design

A meeting shall be scheduled to discuss your requirements in further detail, including your budget. These requirements are known as - the brief. Once this has been completed, it is time to prepare the design concept. This is usually a plan that presents the approximate layout with associated 3d perspective views. We will discuss this concept with you and work with you until your expectations are satisfied. The design will then be developed in more detail to show finishes, building materials etc.

Working Drawings & Specifications

SandS Building Design

Upon approval of the concept design working drawings and specifications will be prepared. These documents tell the builder exactly how to construct your building in detail. Well prepared drawings and specifications save time, reduce uncertainty, help avoid disputes and assure a baseline level of project quality. Whilst drawings and schedules list materials and form, it is a properly constructed comprehensive specification that provides a clear outline of the quality of materials and tolerance of construction required. A Project Specification also guarantees at tender stage, builders are quoting on the same items making for a better comparison and assuring that the project will not be lost to someone who will cut the quality of construction.

SandS Building Design are skilled in an entire range of building design services, including site analysis, design and documentation, council submissions, energy rating etc. We undertake continuing professional development in order to keep up to date with the rapid changes in building design and technology.