Process
concept
Before we make a start on the concept we need to talk with you about your ideas and objectives; the “wish list” for your building project so we can in turn formulate a brief for your approval. Typically we meet on site beforehand because the Site Context, Building Orientation, buildability and budget are important considerations in the Design Process. There is no charge for your On-site meet and greet.
GNR are skilled in producing economic architectural design solutions with flair. Strong conceptually and focused on buildability we can produce a design as bold or understated as you like.
The next steps in the concept stage vary depending on whether you are looking at a New Build or Renovation. However both project types usually require a Topographical Survey to be carried out first, which we can help to arrange with a Registered Land Surveyor.
As part of the Concept Stage we will produce Sketch Plans for your approval, including Floor Plans and Elevations. With the software we use to draft the design we can also provide a 3D model of the proposed design for you to “walk through”.
developed design
The next step of the process is all about refining the design for your needs and so we can work out what other parties /consultants will need to be involved. We can also take a look at any early structural questions that could impact the design with your nominated structural engineer. The drawings by the end of this stage will be developed enough for a Planning Application if a Resource Consent is needed and for obtaining early price estimates from your nominated builder or Cost Consultant. We will also be ready to embark on the building consent drawings.
DETAILED DESIGN OR CONSTRUCTION PLANS
Once you’ve approved the design we can quickly move into producing detailed drawings for a building consent application with your local council’s building control department. Early on in this stage we’ll also further discuss the building materials with you so that you can consider and confirm your selections prior to us adding these into the plans and details.
We will lodge the building consent application on your behalf and monitor the process throughout it’s time in council. Experienced working in and having a good understanding of the regulatory environment enables us to optimise your building consent plans for a smoother transition through council.
The majority of work we complete during this stage is referred to as the building consent documentation and generally made up of: building consent plans, project specification, design certificates, technical product information and council’s application forms. However additional construction drawings can also be provided beyond what’s needed for building consent for pricing or to assist builders in construction.
At GNR Studio we focus on buildability and have good builder relationships and contacts. We can connect you with builders working across all areas of the residential market from small additions to cutting edge residential. We also produce designs for Design and Build Developers.
Having worked for a long time on the North Shore and wider Auckland we can draw from a long list of building resources including other consultants;- structural engineers, drainage engineers, fire consultants, planners and registered land surveyors.
construction stage
This is when your dream starts to materialise…For most projects except very small ones you will need to have a contract with the builder prior to starting the works. We can work alongside you throughout construction and carry out Construction Observation. Alternatively we can assist you in finding a contractor or Project Manager who will set up the contract for you and oversee the construction phase. We will talk about these options with you early on so you can decide on the best approach for you and your budget.
