Quality design is often thrown out the window by developers and volume-based builders who put cost, speed and profits to the fore.
Archicentre Australia says disregarding the quality design services provided by architects will see many home buyers inadvertently miss the opportunity to create a home that results in an enjoyable, healthy and comfortable long-term living environment.
The national architect’s advisory service says that those planning a renovation, new home, dual occupancy development, townhouse or an investment property should consider its design services.
“Before you commit to any expense, the first task should be to contact Archicentre Australia and engage an architect,” according to the organisation’s director Peter Georgiev. “We will provide fresh, high quality home design ideas and help tailor your aspirations in line with your budget, ensuring you can live the dream of home ownership rather than it becoming a nightmare.”
Archicentre Australia’s design architects are highly qualified independent architectural design experts. They are all members of the Australian Institute of Architects, have at least five years tertiary education covering all aspects of design and construction, and have a minimum of two years of industry experience.
At the crucial feasibility design stage the architect will consider in detail site orientation, people circulation within the home, energy efficiency and sustainability, furnishing, cost and other lifestyle matters.
At the subsequent concept stage – otherwise known as schematic design – the architect will make preliminary enquiries of council and a general assessment of authority regulations and requirements pertaining to the property before providing recommendations for the appointment of other necessary consultants and preparing the design briefs for their components.
Materials and finishes will be discussed, and at this stage the architect will aim to refine the original sketch designs, and taking all this into consideration, will be able to prepare a preliminary building estimate.
In the design development stage the architect will help with questions such as: Should we have a concrete or timber floor? What areas do we tile? Will timber-lined ceilings in the family room be worth the extra expense? What are the best systems for heating or cooling our house? The architect will work with any specialist consultants involved with the project, regulatory authorities and council, to prepare a set of preliminary documents which effectively explain the design they have developed to achieve the desired brief.
Unexpected cost-savings may be made at this stage, as the architect may be able to offer less expensive alternatives to the intended building materials, fittings or services.
Peter Georgiev said, “Member architects are well-informed on building material suppliers but are not allowed to accept any commissions from them so they are completely impartial and can freely advise you as to your best options. This may not be the case with other design consultants or building companies, where profit may be the main driver of the advice or design you receive.”
He said these stages were vital in ensuring quality design and a resulting healthy, comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle. “Our architects can also guide home owners through the town planning and development application stage as well as through the construction documentation stage.
“Designing healthy, sustainable environments within the home and surrounds is an integral part of the work of an architect, so make sure your new home or renovation is as well-designed as can be.”
This media release has been written and distributed by:
Peter Georgiev, Director
Level 1, 9 Strathalbyn Street,
Kew East, VICTORIA, 3102
Phone: 1300 13 45 13 | 03 9859 9950
