How does the whole design process work?

We’ve taken the time to write a more comprehensive breakdown of the design process from initial contact right through to submitting your DA (development application) please click here and have a read.

Is the architect involved in the constriction process?

The short answer is yes. Whilst an architect’s involvement does sometimes end at the DA Approval stage, a quality build involves engaging the services of an architect through to the completion of construction. While there are many differences between an architect's and a builder’s responsibilities, the two go hand in hand when it comes to building a quality home. Design and construction are two inseparable processes and are generally sequential and sometimes simultaneous. During construction your architect deals with preparing detailed construction drawings for every aspect of the build, whereas your builder deals with interpreting and translating said drawings into reality. Most importantly, both builder and architect work together to problem solve throughout the build. For more information read Working with Architects on the Australian Institute of Architects website.

Does an architect do the interiors as well?

We enjoy and welcome collaborating with some of New South Wales's leading Interior Designers, however, we understand engaging an Interior Designer is an expense that is not in everyone’s budget. BGA offers Interior Consultation services to help clients realise their vision. We provide creative direction for the interior fixtures, finishes and soft furnishings of the project right through to designing and specifying these items. We encourage our clients to support and shop locally owned, made or grown throughout this process. Check out Kangaroo Valley House as an example of a project we completed end to end.

What areas do you service?

We split our time evenly between the Byron, Ballina and Tweed Shires on the North Coast and the Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla and Wingecarribee Shires on the South Coast of New South Wales. We have also undertaken projects in the Wollongong and Sutherland Shires as well as the Mosman Municipal Council area. We are licenced to practise anywhere in NSW and are currently in the design and development stage for three new builds up north in Doon Doon, Wategos and Skenners Head respectively in addition to four new builds on the south coast in Narrawallee, Mollymook Beach, Milton and Currarong. You can check out project updates and new work here.

How much does an architect cost?

This is always a tough one to answer, as it depends entirely on the scale, budget and complexity of the build. But as a rough guide, you can expect to spend anywhere between 5 to 15% of the total build cost on architectural services. Most architects prefer to charge in staged lump sum fees, however, we prefer to work at an hourly rate as it requires total transparency between the architect and client and often works out to be more affordable for the client. If you have any further questions regarding costs please don’t hesitate to drop us a line here.

Do you only do residential buildings?

We are passionate about good design and quality materials and relish the opportunity to apply those principles to commercial spaces in addition to residential dwellings. If you have a commercial space you’d like a hand with, simply click this link to drop us a line.