I have a block to build on 🏗️, what do I do next?
If you find yourself in possession of a block ripe for building, what a blessing. Your next steps entail navigating the complex journey toward realising a dream. But beware, the road ahead is fraught with salesmen, complexities and uncertainties, necessitating a strategic approach and a keen understanding of your land's inherent qualities. If you want to make sure your home maximises its function while also reflecting your lifestyle, working with a residential design specialist will help.
Let's look at some key statistics. The construction industry accounts for 8.1% of Australia's GDP. Construction failures account for approximately 20%-25% of total Australian business insolvencies, which understandably raises concerns among potential clients. Architectural involvement in projects continues to decline, accounting for less than 5% of Class 1 residential work. This is despite seeing capital gains improvements; in Melbourne residential property. This means that approximately nine out of ten people choose a 'one-stop-shop' solution, rather than a separate designer and builder.
In an era marked by financial constraints, hiring a builder or design-build firm should provide both a design solution and a financial one. You'll navigate the maze of regulations and logistics together, but keep in mind that their price is their price, and you won't be able to question it.
Alternatively, if you dare to dream big with a luxury architect—a master of elegance and refinement. Entrust them with your vision, and they will weave a tapestry of grandeur and distinction, elevating your home to the heights of timeless artistry. However, while architects are held to a higher standard, they will most likely use financial terms like 'probable cost', which is as ambiguous as it sounds.
The benefit of going to a 'one-stop-shop' is that because they are on site every day, they should be aware of current market prices for everything from bricks to joinery. The strength of separating your designer and builder is that you diversify your risk. You get multiple sources of price information instead of just one, and are better placed to assess your builder with a set of drawings rather than an idea.
In either path you choose, communication and collaboration are paramount. Being able to foster a dialogue that promotes mutual understanding will result in a shared vision. When combined with a steadfast commitment to excellence, your journey will be truly memorable.
Once you've decided on who will design your dream, or even if you go it alone, the first step should be a multi-brief approach to determining your design requirements. It is critical to conduct an in-depth analysis and evaluation of the site, addressing your primary needs and determining the best options in terms of function and aesthetics. By connecting to the site and addressing your primary requirements, the methodology should result in liveable spaces that are meticulously tailored to your specific needs.
As soon as possible, test your design against your budget. This is the bedrock of a great design and your ability to realise your vision. Regardless of site shape, size or design complexities, having a clear understanding of your budget is what creates a solid foundation.
This is only the first few steps. Your residential specialist should explain the two dozen odd steps to take before and during construction. Ultimately they help shape your long-term vision by creating design solutions that will benefit you now and in the future. Their work reveals new ways to enjoy and grow at home by investing in you.
https://www.ibisworld.com/au/industry/architectural-services/550/#IndustryStatisticsAndTrends
https://atradius.com.au/reports/market-monitor-construction-australia-2020.html
https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/industry/building-and-construction
https://www.architeam.net.au/static/uploads/files/rasp-final-report-wfknlfyqtpqy.pdf
