Your Questions, Answered
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Getting started doesn’t have to be complicated. Email me, or call for a chat and I’m only to happy to answer any queries you have, suggest a process that suits your situation and perhaps give you some helpful pointers to help you on your way.
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I’m a local. I’ve lived in Nelson Tasman for 45 years, so I’m very familiar with local climate, soils and council processes.
I used to be a builder. My 34 years as a builder combined with my 16 years as an architectural designer means I can create practical, cost‑conscious designs that are easy for builders to work from.
I deliver plans that reflect your vision but also meet council and code requirements. To date I’ve had over 350 plans receive building consents.
I have excellent relationships with a great bunch of specialists who I can call upon as required, including structural and geotechnical engineers, resource consent consultants, truss manufacturers, fire safety and compliance consultants, project managers and suppliers.
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You can reach me anytime via my contact page or at . I aim to respond quickly - usually within one business day.
You can also phone me
Monday to Friday between 8:30am and 6:00pm
03 5432841 or Mob 0274588721 -
This is how my design fees are decided and when payment is expected:
FEES
The first in person consultation is free.
After the the first consultation I can provide an approximation of the design cost. A more accurate estimate is possible once the concept plans are finalised.
INVOICING
Invoices are typically issued at project milestones, such as sign-off of concept plans, or completion of plans prior to lodgement.For larger projects, invoicing can be staged to assist with your budget management.
EXTERNAL COSTS:
Consultant Fees (Engineers, etc.) and Plan Lodgement Fees (TDC/NCC) are generally invoiced directly to you by whoever supplies the service. -
I work in a collaborative, honest, and straightforward way, beginning with where you’re at.
This is the usual process:
Stage 1: Information Gathering & The Design Brief
We first need to gather the hard facts about your project, including house style, size, room functions, and total approximate budget. (Insert hyperlink to "Design Brief PDF" which includes full and detailed list from the original website including windows, heating, materials etc)Stage 2: Design Development
I consult with you and produce concept plans which reflect your preferences and meet all legal and regulatory requirements. These plans are detailed enough for you to obtain cost estimates.Stage 3: Working Drawings & Lodgement
I produce a full set of drawings complete with all specifications required to obtain a Building Consent. I handle the lodgement of plans with the Local Authority and the briefing of other consultants.Stage 4: Technical Detailing (The Builder’s Pack) and Follow Up Support
I provide follow up support for clients and builders when building commences. If additional details and consultation with contractors are required, I do this at no extra cost.I complete necessary amendments and variations to plans quickly and lodge them with the relevant Council.
I charge my usual hourly rate for this service.