Design Process
Whilst Ecosse Constructions can work with your own architects and designers to manage and build your project, they also have a proven track record in providing comprehensive design services to take your project all the way from an idea to a home that you can walk into and enjoy with your family.
At Ecosse Constructions, we believe that successful renovation projects start with one question:
What is it you want to achieve?
Answering that question leads to a more in-depth understanding of your needs – which in turn dictates the path we take with you to achieve the final result.
For example, do you need more room for your growing family (or perhaps a home-based business); or are you just wanting to make better use of the space you already have … or do you need both by way of a complete remodel while using parts of the existing structure ?
As experienced project managers, designers, and builders, we can ensure that your project and/or design can be achieved both practically and on budget.
With your goals in mind, ECOSSE CONSTRUCTIONS can work out a way to deliver your ideas with the use of existing structure to produce the best result for a particular style or budget.
Stage 1 – Site Measure and Brief
In this first stage we take accurate measurements of the existing structure.
This is also a time to consider how the existing house was built. Different areas and styles of homes are built using different construction techniques. Understanding these different techniques can greatly improve your renovation outcome.
For this important stage, ECOSSE CONSTRUCTIONS believe that having a builder involved delivers a better outcome.
Stage 2 – Concept
If you don’t have a specific idea of your final outcome, ECOSSE CONSTRUCTIONS offer a concept stage in all our design packages. This enables us to show you what can be achieved by drawing on the experience of other projects and putting that into your design, to help you visualize the final outcome.
The concept stage is when the project takes shape. In this stage we have the opportunity to play around with different ideas to see how they work taking into consideration:
- Existing structure – Working with the style and era of the existing building, rather than simply adding a new section to a house.
- Terrain of the site – Some sites are better suited to certain types of building materials.
- Site access – Some sites pose difficulties with access for materials and machinery. This can affect the style and cost of the renovation.
- Lifestyle – How do you envision using the home when it has been completed?
- Style of construction – Whether the style of the home will ultimately be Colonial, Modern, etc depends on the above points.
In the concept stage we can:
- Visualise the final outcome – By creating drawings, artist’s renderings, etc. we help you understand the space and proportion/scale of each part of the whole project.
- Qualify the use of space – Determine the efficiency and usability of the space.
- Calculate the most cost-effective design – Balance design with budget to arrive at a realistic and affordable plan.
- Assess lifestyle usability – Does the design ultimately help you achieve the lifestyle you want in your home?
Stage 3 – Development Approval
If the design that you wish to achieve does not fit within town planning guidelines then Development approval will be required. ECOSSE CONSTRUCTIONS use and recommend a Town Planner.
Development Approval – Brisbane
Once the project is completed you can move in knowing that everything has been professionally managed and built by ECOSSE CONSTRUCTIONS
If Building Approval is all that is required, Development Approval is not required and this step can be skipped to go straight on to working drawings.
Stage 4 – Working Drawings
In this stage of the design process our licensed draftsperson will draw the final concept into working drawings with construction notes ready for approval. These drawings have all dimensions, timber sizes and construction details.
Many projects also require one or more of the following consultants and government fees & charges to be included at this stage:
- Structural engineering
- Soil testing
- Surveying
- Energy efficiency analysis/reporting
- BSA Insurance
- Q-Leave
Once working drawings have been completed, the project moves on to the building approval stage.
Stage 5 – Building Approval
Building Approvals are assessed and given by private certifiers (not the council) The building certifiers will approve the project and conduct a minimum of two site inspections (a footings inspection and a final inspection) to sign off on the project on completion.
To complete the process the certifier may require structural engineering, surveying and energy efficiency reports. ECOSSE CONSTRUCTIONS use and recommend certifiers which we have built a strong relationship with.
On Completion
To finalise the project the certifier requires forms from all relevant trades people (stating that their work has been carried in accordance with BCA) and conducts a final inspection.
Once approval has been granted by the certifier, you can move into your new home and enjoy it for many years to come.
To Summarise
As with most things in life, great planning is essential for a great outcome.
ECOSSE CONSTRUCTIONS believe that professional planning and communication between client, builder, trades and consultants is the key to a successful project.
