Hi celfoote, My friend Tony Beattie is a long term resident in Erskineville and very good architect. Allow 10% of your budget for the careful, comprehensive and considered planning of an architect. Tony is a brilliant architect. http://beattieco.com.au/

Hi all our terrazzo bench has been installed and in use for over 12 months. This bench was poured in Italy and then finished by a stonemason off-site type. When 1st installed I spilt some lemon juice which created a mark so we are careful not to use acidic items on the bench. I am not sure if this happened before or after we sealed it but I think it’s important to seal any natural stone product and we used the sellers recommended product called “slow drying sure seal” but I won’t vouch for its effectiveness as I can’t compare it to anything. Over all we love the look but I think you need to be a little more careful around natural products than engineered ones so it may depend on your lifestyle

Contact Velux (skylights). Sounds odd perhaps but their installers are well experienced with water proofing, roof's, etc. or try a roof plumber experienced with terraces. Not just any roofer but one with terrace experience. I know a Velux installer and he makes up his own flashings, etc as well as being a great builder. Unfortunately he's no where near you.

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