OUR PROCESS​

Our collaborative 10 STAGE PROCESS is designed to keep our client partners in the know – every step of the way

The relationship we form with our clients is a partnership – working together with a shared objective.

Our process is based on openness, clarity and trust, with a goal to consistently exceed our clients’ expectations.

As an integral part of this process, we ensure our clients are always up-to-date with their project’s progress so they are equipped to make informed decisions at every stage. 

PROJECT ESTABLISHMENT

Good planning is the key to a successful project.

Our NEEDS & OPTIONS REVIEW is an essential tool we use to compile information required to establish the full parameters of the project. ▪︎ We assess the potential of the site, evaluate planning options, identify likely problems and help our client express their specific requirements and expectations. These factors assist us in formulating a realistic budget from a broad range of costs. ▪︎ Thorough preparation and planning avoid costly changes down the track – this is the time for exploring ideas, comparing options and making decisions based on detailed research.  ▪︎ In close consultation with our client we begin to prepare a comprehensive brief as a solid foundation for the project, prior to establishing a program of work. ▪︎ Our next step is to prepare and submit an action plan for the project, and, following client approval, we assemble a team of consultants and begin set up of the project base within our office.

DESIGN CONCEPT
AND MASTERPLAN

After organising surveys of the site, we create schematic building plans and develop the design and masterplan concepts, liaising with cost consultants to maintain budgetary parameters in the preparation process. ▪︎ We then present the Design Concept to the client, reflecting the Design Brief and initial cost plan established in Stage 1. ▪︎ During the presentation we listen and respond to client feedback and discuss ways to improve the Design Concept to fulfil our client’s needs. ▪︎ We obtain sign off on Stage 2. 

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

We analyse our client’s feedback and discussion from the Design Concept Stage to improve and develop the design. ▪︎ In the preparation of Design Development drawings we integrate details such as specialist equipment and services, engineering requirements, lighting options, finishes and materials, liaising with our cost consultants to ensure the agreed budget is maintained. ▪︎ After presenting the Design Development to our clients we respond to comments and discuss any aspects that require finetuning. ▪︎ We then obtain written approval of Stage 3 completion.

AUTHORITY APPROVALS

This stage involves preparing reports and compiling submissions necessary to obtain permission and approval for the proposed construction from Council or relevant Authority. ▪︎ We review these documents with our clients, advising them of Authority fees, and obtain written approval to submit the application/s.  ▪︎ We liaise with Council during their process of evaluation, submitting any additional information and attending meetings as required. ▪︎ We obtain DA and CC approvals. Whilst awaiting response from Council we proceed with the Documentation Stage.

DOCUMENTATION

While the Approval process is ongoing, we prepare full contract documentation, detail drawings, schedules, and models if required.  ▪︎ We coordinate consultants’ drawings: structural, services, lighting and landscaping, and prepare Furniture Fittings and Equipment schedules, and specifications for materials and finishes. ▪︎ We obtain prices on long-lead time items, liaising with the cost consultant on the updated documentation to ensure we remain within budget. ▪︎ We present the complete documentation package to our clients and obtain written approval for Stage 5.

PRE-QUALIFICATION
FOR BUILDERS

A selection of builders appropriate to the size of the project is presented to our client for consideration. ▪︎ In consultation with our client, we make a shortlist and prepare a Request For Proposals for the appointment of a Builder. ▪︎ We then obtain written approval for Stage 6.

TENDER, EVALUATION AND AWARD

We issue pricing packages to the shortlisted Builders for their tender submissions.  ▪︎ Once tenders are received, our cost consultants carefully evaluate the figures to verify calculations and tenderers must respond re any discrepancies. The cost plan is updated and we prepare a tender report to present to our clients. ▪︎ Together we decide which builder will provide the best value for the project and assess the need for any changes, deletions or inclusions based on the updated cost plan. ▪︎ We then obtain our client’s written approval of the successful builder.

CONSTRUCTION

We prepare the contracts between the builder and our clients and issue the Builder with Contract Drawings, Schedules and Specifications “For Construction”.  ▪︎ Throughout the Construction Stage we make site visits, attend site meetings and track progress in relation to the agreed program, keeping our clients informed at all times. ▪︎ It is our responsibility to monitor the quality of the build and ensure the project is built in accordance with drawings and specifications. ▪︎ We coordinate placement of fixtures, review prototypes, and approve samples of materials, resolving on-site issues and providing supplementary drawings if required. ▪︎ In line with on-site deliveries and progress of works we instruct our clients on the release of periodic payments to the builder. ▪︎ Finally, when the works are complete, we obtain the required Authority approvals and Issue a Certificate of Practical completion. Then it’s time to coordinate with our clients for their move into their new luxury home.

DEFECTS LIABILITY PERIOD

We prepare a defects list against the project and monitor and report on the Builder’s rectification of the defects according to an agreed program. We prepare “As Built” drawings, obtain Authority approvals and coordinate with the builder for any contractors certificates. Following the Defects Liability Period (12 months) we issue a Certificate of Final Completion.

POST-CONTRACT

Every stage of our process contributes to our ultimate goal: to create an outstanding project for our clients: a unique sanctuary that exceeds their expectations. At this stage we seek our client’s insight, reviewing our process together to identify ways we can improve our services for future clients. Now is also the time we request written testimonials from our clients.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES –
STYLING AND TURNKEY

As an extension to the process, our STYLING SERVICE is designed to assist clients with the selection of finishing touches to enhance their new home. This can include procuring statement pieces such as artwork and sculpture, sourcing furniture, soft furnishings, Object d’art and accessories, as well as the commission of custom-made elements – all within a pre-agreed budget.

For those of our clients lacking available time to set up their new luxury residence, our TURNKEY PACKAGE provides the full range of household and lifestyle essentials to complete and compliment your home. According to your nominated budget, we take care of the selection, purchase and installation of items such as cookware and kitchen equipment, dinnerware and cutlery, napery and glassware, bathware, towels, bedding and manchester. With everything in its place, the service is concluded with a personalised handover to make you feel at home.