Methodology and Process

Methodology and Process

The Design and Construction Stages of BPSM’s Architectural Process

At BPSM Architects, we believe that the role of the Architect goes well beyond simply providing design ideas. Each new project requires our total commitment from concept to completion to enable us to meet the unique complexities and challenges involved.

We deliver an individually tailored and comprehensive design process that engages you, the client, in all aspects of the project to ensure that it is completed to the highest quality with close attention to detail, timeline and budget.

We have experience in a broad spectrum of projects covering residential, aged care, health care, commercial, institutional and industrial. We will help you in the decision-making process.

We work with like-minded, quality-orientated consultants and have found that this ‘team’ approach is the most successful way to deliver projects.

In conjunction with the latest, proven technologies and design programmes, our Architects can create your ideal home or facility, built to carry you into the future.

Feasibility

Schematic Design

Detailed Design Development

Construction Documentation

Contract Administration

Feasibility / Brief

The Feasibility stage is the first step in any project to determine if the project you have in mind will work within your budget, timelines, location, and government rules and restrictions. This step can be especially crucial for commercial or business developments. At this stage we sit down with you, the client, to get an overview of what you are trying to achieve, along with your budget, timing and any other special requirements. This information is carefully considered in conjunction with any planning and building statutory requirements so that we can produce an educated response to the feasibility of the project and offer options to you.

Schematic/Sketch Design

BPSM Architects_Architecture Process Flow Chart - 1. Schematic Design

© BPSM Pty Ltd

In the Schematic Design stage we work closely with you and the relevant authorities to establish a comprehensive architectural brief and sketch plan design drawings.

Included in this stage are:

Formulating the architectural brief to identify your wants and needs and a preliminary budget figure.
A thorough site analysis to identify the physical conditions and their impact on the initial design response.
Meetings with relevant council and statutory authorities to discuss the architectural brief and the implications towards obtaining the necessary permits.
Sketch plan drawings, such as site plans, floor plans and elevations are produced at an appropriate scale to communicate to you the proposed design response. 3D sketches may also be produced to help communicate the concept and ideas.
A Development Approval application following your approval, incorporating the schematic design drawings, application report documents, materials and finishes sample board.

Detailed Design / Design Development

BPSM Architects_Architecture Process Flow Chart - 2. Detailed Design

© BPSM Pty Ltd

The purpose of the Detailed Design stage is to develop the initial schematic design into more detailed building documentation, which addresses specific building and regulatory requirements in preparation for later construction documentation. This stage is used to detail and develop the design.

Included in this stage are:

Detailed floor plans (e.g. Concept lighting and power plans, structural and mechanical services layouts and landscaping master plans).
Detailed internal and external elevations (e.g. Kitchen, bathroom and laundry areas, unique joinery units and outdoor structures).
Preliminary building cross sections and detailed three-dimensional perspective views.
Review of the Development Permit to ensure design is compliant with statutory requirements.

All drawings are produced at an appropriate scale to clearly communicate such things as the selection of all fittings, fixtures, hardware, material and finishes.

Take a look at the Detailed Design Development flow chart below, for a detailed view of the process.

Construction Documentation

BPSM Architects_Architecture Process Flow Chart - 3. Construction Documentation

© BPSM Pty Ltd

During the Construction Documentation stage we will prepare a thorough set of detailed drawings and specifications. These documents are used for tendering, obtaining a building permit and the actual project construction. Particular attention is paid to coordinating and integrating the services of specialist consultants, ensuring a consistent set of construction documents.

Included in this stage are:

Fully-dimensioned and notated floor plans
Fully-dimensioned and notated external and internal elevations
Fully-dimensioned and notated sections and details
A written architectural specification, including all necessary schedules
Schedules would be included for items such as:
- Finishes and colour
- Windows
- Doors
- Door hardware
- Fixtures and fittings
Lodgment of the documents with a Building Surveyor and statutory bodies necessary for a building and plumbing permit.

Contract/Construction Administration

BPSM Architects_Architecture Process Flow Chart - 4. Contract Administration

© BPSM Pty Ltd

The Contract Administration stage is specifically concerned with the supervision of building works – a critical stage often neglected. We work closely with builders and contractors on all projects, regardless of size or complexity, to ensure the building works are completed on time, within budget and of the highest possible quality.

Included in this stage are:

Tendering
Signing of building contracts
Regular site inspections and meetings
Monitoring builders’ progress in accordance with projected time frames, tendered price and quality of work outlined in the building documentation.