Architectural Services in Sydney
I work on new homes, renovations and small commercial projects across Sydney, from the first sketch through to handover. I run the studio myself, so I’m involved in every stage of your project and you always know who’s looking after it.
1. Initial Consultation
We meet to discuss your goals, budget, timeline, and any specific requirements. This first meeting also lets us both decide if we're a good fit to work together. It's charged at an hourly rate, which is deducted from your fee if you go ahead.
Afterwards, I'll draft a Client Architect Agreement (CAA) outlining your requirements, budget, and the services included. Under NSW law, architects and clients must sign this agreement before work begins. I use the standard CAA, or the CAA for Limited Services, from the Australian Institute of Architects.
2. Pre-Design
I research the site: local council zoning rules, environmental constraints, and any planning limitations. This tells us what's possible before design starts.
3. Concept Design
I develop initial ideas through sketches, diagrams, and basic models, exploring layout, spatial flow, and overall look and feel. You review and give feedback, which shapes the concept further.
4. Design Development
The chosen concept is developed in detail: floor plans, elevations, and 3D renders. Materials, structure, and building services are worked into the design.
5. Planning Approval
I prepare drawings and specifications for council submission. Depending on the project, this may mean a Development Application (DA), followed by a Construction Certificate or, for simpler projects, a Complying Development Certificate (CDC).
6. Construction Documentation
Detailed drawings and specifications are prepared to guide the builder through construction.
7. Contractor Selection
I can help you choose a builder, preparing tender documents, comparing quotes, and advising based on quality, budget, and timeline.
8. Contract Administration
During construction, I oversee the build to make sure it matches the design and meets quality standards, through site visits, progress checks, and managing any changes.
Once complete, I carry out final inspections, confirm the work matches the contract, and support the handover. I'm also available afterwards if any issues come up.
Frequently asked questions
What services does an architect provide?
I can help from the very start: looking at your site and what council allows, designing the project, preparing drawings for approval and for the builder, helping you choose a builder, and checking the work on site until handover. You can use me for the whole project or just the stages you need.
Do I need a DA or a CDC?
It depends on your property and what you want to build. Many simpler projects can go through a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), which is usually quicker. Heritage-listed houses, homes in heritage conservation areas and projects that don’t fit the codes usually need a Development Application (DA) to council. I’ll work out which one applies to you early on, before we get into the design.
How are fees charged?
It depends on the size of the project and how much of my service you need. The first meeting is charged at an hourly rate, and I take that off your fee if we go ahead. After that meeting I’ll send you a written fee proposal broken down by stage, so you know the costs before you commit.
Which areas do you work in?
I’m based in Surry Hills and work all over Sydney. Recent projects have been in the Inner West, Surry Hills, the Lower North Shore and the Northern Beaches.
Can you design an energy-efficient or Passive House home?
Yes. I’m a Certified Passive House Designer, so energy performance is part of the design from the first sketch: orientation, insulation, airtightness, shading and ventilation. Whether or not you’re aiming for certification, the goal is a home that’s comfortable all year and cheaper to run.