FAQs
Why does an Architect need to come to site?
The site dictates the layout and orientation of the home - we consider the aspect of your property, views, slopes, predominant breezes, existing vegetation and surroundings. We also investigate council requirements and other conditions prior. If a site meeting cannot be arranged e.g. due to being outside our service areas, we may conduct a ZOOM meeting and request photos/videos of your site.
Do you provide architectural services outside South East QLD and Northern NSW?
Members of our Architectural team have registration in QLD and NSW. Outside these states, the Director is a member of the Building Design Association Australia (BDAA) and so can provide design services.
Can you give me a fixed cost for design services on enquiry?
As our designs are developed from our client’s project brief, the size of the new build or renovation, and the site location, we are unable to provide a quote before learning more about your lifestyle requirements and property. This is why we typically arrange a site consult to meet you and discuss the aspects of your project. From there we provide a fee proposal to confirm the scope of work for your approval.
Is there flexibility with your design stages?
BAASTUDIO’s design and fee structure, allows a level of flexibility with each design stage so you can select sketch design concepts only, or proceed with design development, building approval, town planning and construction detailing depending on your requirements.
Do you provide design services for renovations and additions?
Yes, many of our projects are renovations and additions. We measure up your existing house, prepare site and existing floor plans, then master plan the renovation/addition. From here you can choose to continue with Design Development and Building Approval.
How soon can you commence my project?
This depends on the number and complexity of jobs that are in design at the time. Generally, once a design and fee proposal is signed, we schedule the job on our project management system and commence within 6 weeks. If you require more information on project scheduling, let us know on enquiry.
How do you involve clients in your design process?
We believe residential architecture is personalised and the homes we design need to reflect the people we are designing for. Our initial project questionnaire and onsite consultations are designed to get to know you and your family, how you live, how you entertain, what hobbies you have, so that your home will not only look aesthetic, but be functional and have spaces that you enjoy - whether that’s cooking, entertaining, relaxing or dancing.
During each of the design stages, drawings and documentation will be produced and consulted with you for approval.
Do you recommend builders, certifiers and other consultants?
If your project is in South East QLD, or northern NSW we have an established relationship with consultants and builders we have used for previous projects. You should also do your own independent research by checking licences, registrations and their portfolio of work.
Do you tender jobs and project manage? Why pay for these services?
Yes - we can tender your project and conduct site meetings during construction to check the job is being built to the standards and specifications indicated on plans.
Typically three builders are engaged to tender - this can save you thousands off the construction costs and is a good comparison and starting point for negotiating aspects of the building contract.
Our onsite inspections are peace of mind that the build is following the plans and specifications approved by the Architect.
How do I budget for a construction project?
We advise our clients to allow for $3,500 - $5,000 per square metre depending on the complexity and materials for their project. Construction costs do vary so we recommend tendering or securing fixed contracts.
For more information on budget considerations, contact us at info@baastudio.com.au for our BAASTUDIO STARTER KIT.
Do you need more information on our services and commencing your own new build or reno project?
Contact us on info@baastudio.com.au or submit the form below for a BAASTUDIO starter kit.
DESIGN STAGES FAQs
What does Stage 1 Ideas - masterplan and sketch design include?
This stage is where the magic happens! The design team spend considerable time on this stage coming up with ideas and concepts based on your brief, and in consultation with you.
It includes the masterplan which is a blueprint of the development site like the image above. It includes concepts for the:
layout of the house
carports or garages
other external structures - sheds, second dwellings etc
pools, spas
entertaining areas
driveway access
landscaping.
This concept is a free hand sketch layout drawn by the Director.
Sketch design involves taking the masterplan layout and transferring to our architectural software programs to produce a conceptual site plan, floor plan, roof plan, elevation and 3D perspective.
This stage is purely about ideas and concepts. Once we have a concept idea you are happy with, we move onto Stage 2 Design Development to document the details.
If I have only signed up for the masterplan, what does this include?
The masterplan includes the free hand site layout developed by the Director. This does not include any plans drawn in our architecture programs.
Do I need a survey for Stage 1?
Yes, we require a survey of the property or development area in order to produce our masterplan and site plans. We have reliable survey companies we can recommend to carry out a full or partial survey of your site.
What is included at Stage 2 Design Development?
At Design Development we 'fine tune' the conceptual plans - site, roof, floor plans and elevations, detailing overall room dimensions and refining the floor plan layout. At this stage we start to engage consultants and consider the material options for your project.
What plans are required for Stage 3 Building Approval?
Building approval plans at this stage are finalised and sent to the certifier, engineer and energy efficiency consultant. These plans consist of:
Site plan
Roof plan
Floor plan
Elevations and sections
Door and window schedule
When do you detail all the interior plans and electrical and lighting schedule?
Interior and joinery plans, electrical and lighting design and construction details required by builders are developed in Stage 4 - Details. This stage is optional and can be selected once you reach Stage 3 during your project.
To learn more, click on this link for the drawing stages, or this link for our conceptual design service.