FAQs

Step 1 - Client Briefing 
A meeting with the client is arranged to ascertain the brief and scope of work for the project. A formal written Fee Proposal will then be prepared to undertake the project. Once this is returned signed by the client, then a site measure and analysis will be undertaken along with photos taken.

Step 2 – Concept Design
Preliminary concept drawings are prepared to match the client brief. This will normally include a site plan, floor plan and elevations. Depending on the situation, sometimes more than one option is prepared to explore all design possibilities.

Step 3 - Client Comments & Design Development 
Discussions with the client about the design and any comments or changes are then taken on board and the drawings altered to suit. At this stage it is normally suggest that the client starts engaging in discussions with a builder or builders to obtain an estimated price for the project.
 
Step 4 – Working Drawings
Once the client is satisfied that the project is within budget and are willing to move ahead, then full working drawings are prepared. The level of documentation will vary depending on whether a planning permit is required prior to obtaining a building permit. At this stage the appropriate consultants are engaged to undertake necessary works such as soil testing, engineering, six star energy rating, land surveys and landscape design. Once the preliminary working drawings are complete, the client is sent a copy for their approval and comments. Any changes or alterations are then made and the drawings finalised ready for completion. At this stage all the appropriate consultants’ work is collated so that a complete package can be presented to the client.
 
Step 5 - Permits
At this stage in the process, some clients choose to undertake arranging all the permits themselves, particularly when they are going to be acting as an owner builder. Levan Design is flexible and happy to work with the clients requirements, whether that is arranging the permits on behalf of the client or not.

 

Due to the complexity and individual nature of each project, a fee proposal is prepared at the beginning of each project after taking a full brief from the client. Once a price has been agreed upon, the following 3 stages apply:
 
Stage 1
Concept design is at a set price per project. Any alterations are then charged at an hourly rate.
 
Stage 2
Planning drawings are at a set price per project. Any changes to the design once completed are then charged at and hourly rate along with handling the planning application process on behalf of the client.
 
Stage 3
Working drawings are at a set price per project. Any changes to the design once completed are then charged at an hourly rate.

Each project is different and can vary greatly. However as an approximate guide for a single dwelling project:

Stage 1
Allow approximately two-four weeks from signing the fee proposal.

Stage 2
Four-six weeks to prepare documents. The planning process can vary greatly and would depend on the local council. An approximate time frame cannot be given.
 
Stage 3
Four to six weeks.

Yes. Many of our clients act as owner builders and we can advise you in the processes involved if required.

At Levan Design, we prefer to incorporate your ideas into a unique concept tailored just for you and your needs and not someone else’s design.

We can make the application for the building permit on your behalf, the nominated builder can also make the application closer to the time of construction commencing or the owner can arrange the permit if they are going to act as an Owner Builder.

A soil test is always required for a new building or alterations and additions so that the footings can be designed to suit the soil classification.

Structural engineering is often required for new homes and extensions. They will design the structure where it falls outside our expertise to specify. The cost will depend on the size of the project and a quote can be obtained prior to this commencing. Generally we will arrange this on the client’s behalf and it will form part of a completed document package for the client at the end of the project.

Designers understand that clients are not generally accustomed to reading 2 dimensional plans and elevations.
 
When home designs are produced in 3D, it makes it easy for clients to see exactly what they are getting, and allows designers to successfully explore all of the design opportunities available to them.