Conroy Architects
The Conroy 4-Step
We at Conroy Architects are definitely not process driven but we do have a simple four step plan that works well for new clients.
More often than not we receive a phone call from a potential client asking “How much will it cost to build our house?” Obviously there are so many variables that even giving a ‘ball park’ figure can be highly misleading, which is the root cause of many bad outcomes.
Our four stage plan has been designed for clients to fully understand the process and contain costs to each stage. This system works brilliantly, not only for costs but delivering the maximum value and results.
We have structured the plan so that a clients agreement with us is only done on a stage by stage basis. This means that at completion of a stage they are welcome to take a break or shop around for another firm. This gives clients peace-of-mind and ensures we never take anything for granted!
Stage One Measure-up & Draw the Existing House
This involves, taking photos, measuring and drawing the existing house. The house is drawn using AutoCAD and the existing drawings will be presented in hard copy format. The drawings include floor plans, a cross section, and the relevant exterior elevations.
This stage enable both ourselves and the Client to take an accurate look at what we are truly working with. As you may appreciate the devil is in the detail and this stage will uncover all the little things that will determine the cost of the project moving forward.
Stage Two Sketch Plan /Developed Design
This involves us meeting the Client to determine the various options available, preparing an agreed sketch plan based on your requirements, and any revisions as needed.
At the end of this stage we will have agreed upon the floor layout, form/shape, & general appearance,however there would be little or no detail provided on construction or structural issues.
Drawings can be in either 2D or 3D and to scale. It is at this stage that we investigate any possible town planning issues, and report accordingly.
Stage Three Detailed Working Drawings (Building Consent Drawings)
This stage includes the preparation of a set of detailed construction drawings suitable for pricing, and building from. The drawings and specifications will indicate everything necessary to apply for a building consent, and allow the contractor to provide a fixed price quotation.
The specification will stipulate the quality of materials and workmanship. The amount of information now required too apply for a Building Consent (for even a simple addition) has increased significantly over the last year so this is an important step.
Stage Four Periodic Inspection (Contract Administration)
This includes applying for a building consent on your behalf, calling for tenders, providing tenderers with additional information, preparing a legal building contract, recommending a contractor, liaising with Council, periodic inspection of the work to ensure compliance with the contract drawings and specifications, dealing with variations, payment claims, meeting with the builder re problems, progress etc, checking the final account, preparing a defects list, and deducting maintenance monies as required by the contract.
We generally structure our fee proposal so that your agreement with us is only on a stage by stage basis. This means that at the completion of a stage you are welcome to take a break, or run down to the Four Square to buy a lotto ticket to fund the rest of the project. In either case you can always be assured of our very best efforts to work to your budget, no matter what the scope of work is.