Q - How does the design process work?
A - Initially we will discuss your project. We will require a written brief (style of house, number of rooms etc) and your budget. We start with concept plans, and after developing these to your satisfaction, we then prepare working drawings for Building Consent and Construction. Sometimes your project may require us to do additional work such as:
   4 Presentation/ Marketing drawings including Coloured Cad perspectives
   4 Construction observation and Contract administration
   4 Resource Consent Drawings

Q - How much are your fees?
A - Costs vary greatly on the size and complexity of your project and the extent of the service you require. As an approximate guide for a new house, we suggest that 5-10% of you budget should be allocated for the architectural fees. We always provide you with a written quote which requires your confirmation before we proceed with the project.

Q - Will I need other consultants?
A - For a small renovation or simple new house you may not, otherwise for most projects you will probably require one or more of the following
    4 Surveyor - provides site levels and a contour drawing
   4 Structural Engineer - design and calculation of specific building elements.
   4 Quantity Surveyor - project cost estimates at developed design and/or working drawing stage
   4 Interior designer/Colour Consultant
   4 Landscape Designer
   4 Other specialist consultants (Geo Technical, Fire, Heating, etc) as required
We usually arrange these consultants on your behalf

Q - Where do you work?
A - Most of our work is undertaken locally on the Kapiti Coast, but we frequently have projects in the greater Wellington region. We have also successfully worked in other areas of New Zealand (including Horowhenua, Manawatu, Wanganui, Hawkes Bay, Marlborough and Nelson). We have even had a couple of overseas projects. With CAD drawing and the internet we have the capability to work well beyond our immediate vicinity.

Q - Do you arrange the builder?
A - Yes we can. Locally, we have a good relationship with a number of builders. We prefer a negotiated or design/build type contract. We are also happy to work with a builder that you have arranged or we can put the job out for tender.

Q - Where can I get more Information?
A - The Consumer Build web site www.consumerbuild.org.nz is a useful resource about designing and building

Do you have a question? Please contact us. We guarantee to reply.