Projects

FROM DESIGN TO COMPLETION

We bring extensive experience and practical expertise to projects that include:

·       Residential

·       Multi-unit residential

·       Lodges and holiday resorts (private and commercial)

·       Residential conversions to multi rentable units including conversion to Air BNB

·       Medium sized commercial

The design process and related activities are outlined below.

 

 

01

1. INTRODUCTORY MEETING

The introductory meeting gives us the opportunity to understand our prospective client’s needs and ideas. It also allows us to present and explain our services and fees. We explore design concepts using graphics presented by the client and projects we have previously completed. We run through other professionals and service providers who may be involved in the design process and what their costs will be (e.g. land surveyor, engineer). We also discuss the site, which is a key factor in the initial design phase. The client’s budget and calculating building costs during the design phase and before construction is an important part of our service, and we carefully explain this activity and how we work within the client’s budget. The client should leave this meeting understanding how their expectations will be addressed by our services and what our fees are. We do not charge a fee for this meeting.

02

SITE VISIT

A site can be assessed and understood using existing site plans, the Surveyor General Diagram, Google Earth, and photographs. However, a site visit is sometimes imperative to understand views, light, existing buildings around the property, sound, obstructions, gradient and access to the property. For building conversions, alterations and additions, a site visit is very important.

We may request the following documents and information:

  • Property rights (e.g., zoning, building lines and coverage)
  • Homeowners’ association guidelines or any community regulations
  • Title Deed restrictions
  • Any regulations that may affect the building on site
  • Heritage constraints (for demolition or alterations and additions)

If a site visit is required, a fee may be charged depending on the location.

03

PRESENTATION OF SERVICES AND FEES

After the introductory meeting and site assessment, we will have enough information to present our fee proposal that will also form the framework of the Client Service Agreement. It will cover what is explained below including terms and conditions and payment details. If our client is satisfied the document is signed and the architectural process begins.

04

DESIGN BRIEF

The design brief is the first meeting in the design process to discuss project design details and requirements, some of which may have already been discussed. The meeting will include the topics below, with the objective of compiling a coherent document called the Design Brief, which will direct the process moving forward:

  • Understanding the site and the environment
  • View, discuss, and understand all graphic or written design information presented by the client
  • The building budget and aligning it with client expectations
  • Project timelines
  • Town planning restrictions, including zoning, building lines, servitudes, usage, coverage, FAR, and height restrictions.
  • Understanding any township or homeowners’ association regulations, and obtaining any required information
  • On most projects, a land surveyor will be appointed to produce an accurate topographical survey (site plan). For building conversions, a survey of existing structures is imperative. 
  • Style and shape of the proposed building
  • Site orientation, views, neighbours, entry, and site features
  • Creating a “bubble diagram” showing different spaces in a building and their relationship to each other. This will include shapes, sizes, and approximate m² areas
  • Preparing the framework/template of a specification as a guide for addressing the finishes during the design and building process

05

CONCEPT DESIGN AND 3D MODELLING

After the initial design phases, a conceptual design and 3D model will be created and presented, translating the client’s brief, site analysis, and budget into a preliminary architectural design proposal. While the brief informs the design, this is a creative process where elements develop and evolve, resulting in something unique. The conceptual design serves as the foundation for the final design and allows the client to visualize and engage with the project.

06

ASSESSING BUILDING COSTS

Once the concept design process has been completed, a detailed Bill of Resources is compiled for the project. This document identifies and lists every resource required, including labour, materials, and key cost components.

Where necessary, it enables us to refine and adjust the design to align the project with the available budget before the architectural process continues.

CLICK HERE TO SEE 2 SECTIONS OF A BILL OF RESOURCES

07

FINAL DESIGN

During this phase, the concept design is expanded to address technical information and detailing, such as electrical and plumbing, developing the drawings closer to working drawings.

Verifying specialist suppliers that will contribute design and technical information, such as:

  • Roofing
  • Concrete slabs
  • Windows and doors
  • Kitchens and cupboards
  • Lighting
  • Stairs

Ongoing coordination with professionals, such as the engineer, and incorporating their information and details into the drawings and project documentation.

08

SPECIFICATION

A specification framework was established earlier in the design process. As the project develops, this evolves into a comprehensive working document that complements the architectural drawings and clearly defines the technical and quality requirements of the project.

The specification forms an integral part of the contract documentation and serves as a key reference during the construction process.

09

WORKING DRAWINGS

Working drawings provide the detailed instructions issued to the building contractor and all parties involved in the project. They contain the technical information required to construct the building accurately and in accordance with the design intent.

Certain drawings are also submitted to relevant authorities to obtain municipal and statutory approvals prior to construction.

Working drawing will include:

  • Site plan or Site Development Plan SDP
  • Setting-out plan
  • Stormwater & rainwater management.
  • Floor plans
  • Roof plans
  • Energy efficiency calculations/tables per SANS 10400XA
  • Door & window schedules
  • Elevations
  • Sections
  • Plumbing Layout and fittings
  • Electrical layout and fittings including lighting
  • Technical detailing
  • Co-ordinated specialist drawings and details e.g. kitchens.

10

SUBMISSION AND APPROVALS

At the appropriate stages of the design process, drawings and supporting documentation will be prepared for submission to the local authority, homeowners’ association (where applicable), and other relevant approving bodies. If required, a Site Development
Plan SDP will be submitted for approval.

All municipal submissions are undertaken by an appointed external service provider. Their professional fees are charged separately from the architectural fees.

Should specialist or extraordinary submissions be required — such as heritage, environmental, or other statutory approvals — the relevant professional will be appointed as required, and their fees will be charged separately.

11

FINAL BILL OF RESOURCES AND TENDERING

As outlined previously, a comprehensive Bill of Resources is compiled, listing every material, labour component, and construction resource required for the project. At this stage, it is refined and aligned with the final drawings, details, and specifications.

Budget quotations from suppliers are incorporated for key cost items such as kitchens, fenestration and flooring.  Specialist quotations and technical input is also obtained for elements such as, balustrades, and skylights.

Once the client is satisfied that the projected costs align with the approved budget, the Bill of Resources is issued to selected contractors for verification of quantities and pricing. Through a structured and collaborative process, the final contract price is then agreed upon.

12

PREPARATION OF BUILDING CONTRACT AND RELATED DOCUMENTS

Following the facilitation of the tender and quotation process, an industry-recognised building contract will be prepared for signature between the client and the appointed contractor.

13

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

One of the key objectives of our comprehensive planning approach is to minimise the need for ongoing architectural involvement on site. This not only assists in controlling professional fees but also enables projects to be successfully executed in remote or outlying areas.

Site visit requirements are determined according to the specific needs, complexity, and location of each project, and associated fees are agreed accordingly.

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