1. Project Briefing

Every project begins with an initial meeting at our office or on site. This session establishes project goals, site conditions and expectations, and helps confirm that we are the right fit for your project.

Before the meeting, we review site information, planning overlays and any relevant constraints so we can discuss early opportunities. The project brief remains an active document throughout the process, evolving as design progresses and new possibilities emerge.

Initial consultation: $250 + GST.

2. Conceptual Design & Project Narrative

We begin by studying the site, surrounds and wider context. We consider ecological, historical, urban and experiential factors to define a strong design narrative.

A Survey prepared by a qualified surveyor is required at this stage. It provides accurate boundaries, levels, trees, structures and services, and forms the legal and technical base for both design work and future approvals.

During Concept Design we prepare:

• Early diagrams.
• Preliminary plans, elevations and sections.
• 3D massing studies and computer models.
• Conceptual testing of layout efficiency, orientation, privacy and planning compliance.

For larger or multi‑unit projects, we explore apartment types, planning grids and structural logic to ensure efficiency and viability.

Our Concept Design is offered as a fixed‑fee stand-alone package.

3. Design Development & Council Approvals

Once the concept is confirmed, we progress it into a resolved design.
This stage prepares the documentation required for planning approvals, including:

• Floor plans, elevations and sections.
• Shadow diagrams and other planning diagrams.
• Planning reports.
• Coordination with early consultant input.
• 3D images and other visuals.

Approval pathways vary by location and governing body.

• Within the NCA zone: Works Approval submission.
• Within the Territory Plan zone: Development Application.
• Outside the ACT: documentation tailored to the relevant NSW council.

Depending on the specific project, we recommend clients engage:

• A civil or hydraulic engineer, where required.
• A quantity surveyor for independent cost tracking and budget alignment.

4. Marketing (Commercial & Multi‑Unit Projects)

For commercial and multi‑unit developments, we work with external marketing teams to ensure alignment between the design narrative and the project’s marketing strategy.

We can:

• Collaborate with interior designers.
• Prepare internal apartment layouts.
• Supply model files for professional rendering.
• Help shape naming and branding so it authentically reflects the project’s architectural direction.

Our conceptual narrative often forms a key part of the marketing brief.

5. Tendering & Construction Documentation

Following approvals, we prepare detailed construction documentation. This includes coordinated drawings, specifications, finishes selections and consultant integration. The documentation becomes the instruction set for how the project will be built.

We coordinate with the full consultant team — structural, civil, hydraulic, electrical, mechanical and landscape — ensuring all information aligns.

Once complete, documents are submitted to a Building Certifier to confirm compliance with the Building Code of Australia and to issue Building Approval.

Tendering & Documentation Options

Partial Documentation
Suitable for smaller or simpler residential projects with direct engagement of a head contractor.

Lump Sum Documentation
Comprehensive coordination and scheduling suitable for competitive tender processes.
We can assist in identifying scope, selecting tenderers and managing the tender phase.

GMP (Gross Maximum Price) Documentation & Potential Novation
The head contractor leads the consultant team, tracks cost, and guarantees a maximum price. Construction often begins while documentation is still underway.

6. Construction Services

We provide construction‑phase services depending on the project scale and contract form.

For smaller projects, Typology Architecture can act as Contract Administrator, provided the building contract allows third‑party administration.

For larger or more complex projects, we recommend a third‑party contract administrator, or administration by the head contractor.

In all scenarios, Typology Architecture attends site meetings, responds to queries and supports the built‑outcome to ensure alignment with the design intent.