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The design brief
Registered Architect or architectural designer? What do they charge? How do you brief them? Lifestyle choices? Consider environmental factors such as sun, light, climate. Is noise control an issue?
If you have decided to have your new home custom designed from scratch, you'll need a registered architect, architectural designer or draughts person.
Registered Architects are members of the NZIA (New Zealand Institute of Architects). You can contact them to understand the standards and expectations of being a member. Fees for a registered architect generally range between 10%-15% of the construction value of the house.
Architectural Designers are members of the ADNZ (Architectural Designers NZ). Their fees generally range from 5%-15% of the construction costs depending on their level of expertise and scope of work.
Both registered architects and architectural designers will be able to design your home from the concept drawing stage right through to providing finished drawings, and may offer to supervise the project until completion.
Draughts people do not design but simply draw the final plans and details for construction. Fees for this service generally range around 5% of the construction costs, but again it depends on the complexity of the design and quality of information provided.
In all cases, before deciding on a designer or architect ask for some examples of their work and seek testimonials from previous clients.
Be clear what you want
Establish a budget. You may wish to speak to a valuer to get some broad idea on what other properties in the area are worth. Most builders or designers should be able to give you an idea of current rates for building costs. With this information you can make reasonable judgments on what you can spend and what the property will ultimately be worth.
Reason for building - is this project a lifestyle choice or are you out to make a short term capital gain?
Style Choices - If you are clear on the style you want then provide photographs or cut-outs from magazines to clearly convey your ideas. This is also helpful if you don't know what different styles are called but know what catches your eye.
Build to your lifestyle- A good designer will want to get into your head and ask questions about your lifestyle plans so these can be accommodated most effectively. Do you have children? Are you planning to have children? Do you like entertaining? Do you often have guests to stay?
Consider Environmental Factors- Do you or your family have any special health needs? Take advantage of the sunlight, minimise noise. Think carefully about energy efficiency - gas or electricity?
Establish the ground rules
Keep in mind that designers sell their time, knowledge and experience in the same way as lawyers and accountants. This is why it is important for you to have a clear idea of your needs, likes and dislikes. Make sure you and the designer understand the scope of work they are about to undertake i.e. whats included and what is not. This is generally called "conditions of engagement".
Concept Design
The initial design sketches are used to establish the direction of the design and to identify any potential issues with planning. There are limits to how much land on a property can be occupied by a dwelling. Other issues include access for vehicles, turning circles, provision for courtyards, disposal of stormwater etc.
Apply for a PIM (Project Information Memorandum) from the council. A PIM is required by law under the Building Act and must accompany every building consent application. Usually the designer will handle this for you if they are lodging the consent on your behalf. A PIM can only be applied for once you have initial sketches. A PIM is more comprehensive than a LIM and will provide additional information such as stormwater and drainage disposal.
Step 3 The building fundamentals
