Architectural Design
Drawn with the site, not just on it.
Concept design through to building permit, for clients who want an architect-led home and the option to build with us or with a builder of their choice.
See the design stages
The design process
Four stages, each with a clear outcome
You approve each stage before the next begins, and you can pause between them. Construction pricing is checked at every step.
- 01
Concept
Two or three distinct options exploring how the home could sit on the site.
- Site analysis and sun study
- Massing and plan options
- Indicative cost range
- 02
Schematic design
The chosen concept developed into a coherent plan, section and elevations.
- Floor plans and sections
- Material direction
- Planning assessment
- 03
Design development
Structure, services, joinery and finishes resolved with consultants.
- Engineering coordination
- Interior and lighting design
- Updated cost estimate
- 04
Documentation
Construction drawings and specifications ready for permit and pricing.
- Building permit set
- Specification and schedules
- Tender support if required
Interactive sun study
One eave, two seasons
Perth sits at about 32° south. A correctly sized eave over north-facing glass blocks the high summer sun and welcomes the low winter sun. Move the slider to see the midday sun through the year.
- Month
- June
- Midday sun
- 35°
- Glass shaded
- 31%
- Sun reaches in
- 2.4 m
Simplified diagram for illustration, using a 2.4 m glass height and a 1.4 m eave. Real projects are modelled for their exact site, orientation and surroundings.
Ways to engage us
Design only, or design and build
Both begin the same way. The difference is who builds the home once the drawings are complete.
| Feature | Design only | Design & build |
|---|---|---|
| Concept to documentation | Included | Included |
| Construction cost input during design | Estimates from our construction team | Continuous, from the builder who will deliver it |
| Choice of builder | Yours, with optional tender support | Aurelia Homes |
| Design oversight during construction | Available as an optional service | Included |
| Single point of accountability | For design | For design and construction |
Questions
Design FAQs
Yes. Architectural design can be engaged on its own, through to building permit documentation. You are free to tender the project to builders of your choice, and we can assist with that process if you would like.
For a new home, design and documentation often takes several months, depending on the complexity of the brief and how long council approvals take. We set out an indicative programme at the start so you can plan around it.
Many single houses in Western Australia that comply with the Residential Design Codes only need a building permit. Sites in heritage areas, on certain lots, or with design variations may also need development approval from the local council. We check this at the feasibility stage.
Start with a conversation about your site.
Bring a survey, a few photographs or simply an address. We’ll talk through what might be possible.
Arrange a consultation