One of the most rewarding parts of an architectural career is being able to work with diverse parts of the community. We had the privilege of working on both a child care centre for toddlers and a retiree during 2011. It is of interest to note that each respective client (obviously the child care centre was represented by their board and not the toddlers!) had similar aims....to achieve an outcome in the shortest possible timeframe to the highest possible quality in the most cost effective manner. This is a consistent request of our clients and one might argue an expectation that should be established for any architectural project. For CplusC our capacity as both architects and builders allows that aim to be consistently delivered.
The large front and rear setbacks of the adjacent apartment blocks to our project in Kirribilli expose the site from the public realm. An expressive timber structure and cladding system respond to this condition and draws texture, materials and a working class heritage from the adjacent slipways at the water’s edge.
The project involved a complete knock down of the existing 1940s semi and required screw pile technology to resolve the subterranean bearing of the foundations which were in close proximity to the water’s edge. The amenity provided includes three bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, a store room, balconies’ and outdoor living spaces. The design and construction cost just under $1M and was completed in January 2011. This is a very cost effective result for a project of this scale, location, architectural detail resolution and material quality.
When faced with the task of choosing an architectural firm for your development here are some valuable tips that will mitigate the risk of budget blowout:
1. Speak to past and current Clients and ask for the original budget they gave their architect and the final budget of the project. Its best to get access to all types of clients for 'warts and all' feedback as the manner in which the architect conducts themselves when problems arise is more important than hearing about projects where everything was smooth sailing.
2. Ask each architect how they estimate the project cost and what skills they have with pricing their work.
3. If they recommend a Quantity Surveyor as part of their services insist that a builder is also asked to price the project during the design phase. After all the Quantity Surveyor won’t be signing the construction contract!
4. Where alterations and additions are proposed ask each architect about their experience in regard to unforeseen costs and existing structures, particularly housing stock over 80 years old.
5. Clearly identify what you want from the project and ensure it is included in your Project Brief. Simply listing the number of bedrooms you want is not enough. List the bed size, whether built in robes and desks are required, who will be using each bedroom, whether they like sun in the morning etc. The more you clarify what you expect from your project the better your architect will understand what is expected from their service including their advice on the likely cost.