Builder? Draftsman? Architect? All? None??? HELP!!!
deester
8 years ago
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dohraime
8 years agodeester
8 years agoRelated Discussions
Architect/Builder/Designer Needed!
Comments (2)Hi Kylie I work with clients all over Australia, working remotely to create design concepts for new homes or renovations, or to fix the designs they've had done by someone else. There is truckloads of free advice and guidance available on my website as I blog weekly on designing, renovating and building, and you can see how to get in touch with me there if you wish to talk further about your project, Warm Regards Amelia Lee Undercover Architect www.undercoverarchitect.com...See MoreHelp with Merchant Builder extension & renovation.
Comments (14)Seems like advice has been well covered here, but to add my 2 cents.........it ultimately depends on what you are seeking and expecting from a professional. Off the bat engaging a professional is not something you should "accept" to have to do, rather it should be something that you are actively seeking........I work with people in a range of contexts but to be clear there is a difference between people who are expecting to "buy" a particular end result with some knowledge of what that will be, and others who engage in a professional design process and embark on/trust in the "journey" so to speak that works towards an customised/crafted end result. It's horses for courses and one way or the other is not necessarily suited for everyone. For example, my particular way of operating is probably similar to Dr Retro in that I approach projects with flexibility and respect for the client's needs and specific context. The creativity comes in to play in negotiating these unique aspects and therefore results vary widely from project to project. Alternatively you can find designers/architects who essentially are a "brand" delivering similar end "products" in that you'll be able to get a clear idea beforehand as to likely what end result you will get with them at the helm. Similarly to Dr Retro, I provide a particular stage of frontend/contained service that I call a "Feasibility" exercise in that various options and scenarios are considered specific to client's particular needs/goals within the properly analysed context and some proper/hard costings are applied. This provides the client with legitimate and viable options in broad format and critical information to ascertain what the best balance/option will be for them. For example, we can consider scenarios of alterations/additions in various configurations as well as comparison to new rebuild scenarios - there is never a single right or wrong "way" as to how to achieve certain requirements, however I do find ultimately that the Cost is the ultimate controller and without proper and professional understanding on what particular design moves/options one way or the other will cost you really are literally walking around in the dark in regards to making critical decisions moving forward for your project. You are (not surprisingly) stuck here, I deal with this situation all the time I know exactly where you are at.....all I can say is that there are professionals available who can help you achieve the best outcome, and you need to consider/understand and be comfortable that this is part of the process and is a necessary and critical investment front end to ensure the eventual physical build has been properly considered........ultimately my advice is to research and seek a suitable professional you can trust and work with :) PD...See MoreDraftsman or Architect?
Comments (2)Hey Chris, The answer to your question would be based on the scope of works, experience and personal preference. An architect will generally hold your hand throughout the whole process and generally offer project admin, whereas they will act as the project supervisor from design all the way to handover. This means lodging of the application, material selection, project management and all associated admin. Some architects charge a percentage of the cost of works for this service ranging from 7-15%. A draftsman/ building designer (which is what I am) will generally not handle all the project admin, but will still be there to help you throughout the process. They also operate on a fixed price and is specific to the scope of works and the extent of involvement you want from them. My personal method is to carry out the design work with the client and get a builder on board early so project budgets can be achieved. I carry out all the design work, council approval or certification drawings and construction drawings. I select basic materials throughout the process and leave the finer things up to my client and the builder. Your next question should probably be CDC or DA. Unfortunately I'm based in Sydney, but am happy to give you any advice on the overall process. Also below is a link to 15 building designers in Melbourne. Good Luck! Melbourne Building Designers...See MoreAdvice? Layout / design software? Draftsman recommendation Melb
Comments (11)Thanks guys. Unflipped plan attached. There is no door to the bedroom at some point someone has already closed it. We have small children so want to keep a bath. Will be taking linen cupboard space too (first wall on left) which not even in the drawing. Pic attached...See MoreCarole
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