FAQ

  • What types of projects do you specialise in?

    We specialise in a wide range of projects, including residential, commercial, and industrial architecture. Whether it's designing a modern home, a corporate office, or a retail space, our highly experienced team of architects, interior designers and urban planners are able to take on projects which are unique in size, typology and budget.

  • How long is the design process?

    The timeline for each project is dependent on a number of factors, such as size, complexity and scope. At the start of each project we try to understand the unique merits, challenges and scope of work required in order to provide a detailed schedule to ensure clear expectations and timely delivery.

    For a typical project you can expect around six months for design and construction drawings.

  • How do you approach the design process?

    Our design process is collaborative and client-focused. We start by understanding your needs, preferences, and budget. Then, we develop a concept that balances aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability, working closely with you every step of the way.

  • How involved will I be in the design process?

    Your involvement is crucial to the success of the project. We encourage active participation and keep you informed throughout the design process at each stage to ensure the final result aligns with your vision.

  • Can you assist with rezoning my property?

    Absolutely. We assist to assist with all necessary permits, approvals, and zoning requirements to ensure a smooth and compliant project execution.

  • Do you have a particular design style?

    While we don’t constrain ourselves to a particular style, our design ethos is rooted in Coastal Modern architecture. Embracing simplicity, functionality and strong connection to nature, this style captures the essence of modernism with its clean lines, natural light and sustainable design principles. For more information, we wrote an article that highlights the style and its influences here.

  • What is the typical cost for hiring an architect?

    In most regions architectural fees are regulated by a professional oversight body, such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA) or Architectural Institute of British Columbia (AIBC). These bodies provide a tariff of fees based on the size, category and complexity of the building. This ensures that the pricing is transparent and fair, and allows clients to choose an architect based on the quality of work.

    Fees also vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project. A detailed fee structure will be provided during the initial consultation, ensuring there are no surprises along the way.

    For example, the recommended architectural fee for a custom single family home will be around 10.70% of the estimated construction cost.

  • Are you able to estimate how much my project will cost?

    Yes. There are a number of different ways that we can help estimate the cost of the project, depending on the stage of the design and the level of detail required. At the early stages of your project, we can provide a high level estimate based on current construction rates per square foot for similar types of projects in your area. This method offers a quick overview to help you establish a preliminary budget.

    Once we have more detailed information for the project, such as floor plans and material preferences, we can refine the estimate by considering factors like the complexity of the design, site conditions, and specific material costs. This estimate gives you a more accurate idea of what to expect.

    For a highly accurate project, we can create a detailed elemental estimate that breaks down the project into its individual components, such as foundations, structure, finishes, services, and assigns costs to each element. This type of estimate is typically used once the design is more developed and provides a comprehensive cost overview,
    We’ll work with you to choose the most appropriate method based on your needs and the project’s progression. Our goal is to ensure transparency and help you plan your budget effectively, with flexibility to adjust as needed.

  • What is your experience with sustainable or green building design?

    Sustainability is one of the core principles of our practice. We believe this starts with a building grounded in passive design principles such as maximising natural daylight, optimising building orientation, cross ventilation, passive heating and cooling strategies, as well as using sustainable and eco-friendly materials. In addition, we try to incorporate energy-efficient and innovative technologies to minimise environmental impact and promote long-term sustainability.