What we do

Every project is different due to the varying brief of the client, the site and planning controls. Each project is usually divided into the stages noted below, however a fee proposal for each project will be developed after meeting the client on site to discuss their needs. Stage 1 is usually a starting point for most clients, so they can work out what they can do for their budget or site and planning controls, before deciding on moving to Stage 2 and beyond.

01- Concept Design

We
The cornerstone of each project is a well-considered concept design.

High House works with each client to develop a brief to suit their requirements. Our usual approach is to do a careful site analysis first, that takes into account existing site conditions, structures and planning controls. From there, a concept design is developed, often with several options for the client to consider. If useful a staged masterplan is developed to enable strategic planning over a period of time that meshes with the client’s needs.

Plan sketches are produced illustrating spatial and planning arrangements, interior and furniture layouts and landscape planning. These are supplemented with 3D sketches or computer models of the proposal, both inside and out, to illustrate the likely ‘feel’ of the finished work.

Cost estimates, along with advice on the best process for approval can be provided if required. We can work with Quantity surveyors or builders for cost estimates.

Direct engagement with clients to discuss our initial proposals allows for confident progression into the next stages of the project safe in the knowledge that the High House design proposal is the optimal solution.

At High House, our strong design skills will ensure a comfortable, functional, desirable result and ensure the end value of the property is maximised.

02- Design Development

In the next stage, we develop and resolve the concept design in more detail to provide an accurate base set of 2D computer drawings together with a 3D computer model which assists to visualise the project more completely. We can do computer walk-through animations, or realistic renders if required.

High House will consider construction and build-ability issues, and plan solutions for these into the project, and will select external materials that enhance the design concept. We carefully check compliance with planning controls to ensure the approval process is smooth.

03- Building Approvals

Providing the information required by authorities to assess and approve proposals is the next critical step to realising each project.

High House can develop drawings and other documents required for building approval, lodge them, and then assist with navigating the often complex approvals process.

Each project will have specific features that will likely require a different approval path, whether a DA&CC (Development Application and Construction Certificate) or a CDC (Complying Development Certificate). High House will have considered the requirements of the approval path earlier in the design process.

The Basix environmental report can be done by High House, or if a more detailed analysis is necessary we can work with a suitable consultant. A range of other trusted consultants can provide the advice and work required to develop the project toward meeting compliance requirements.

04- Construction Drawings

Construction drawings are where what we do at High House all comes together! This is where the detail required to build the project is provided. We take a frontline interest in engineering co-ordination to ensure the concept is accurately realised. At this stage, materials selections and detail design is fully resolved for the various parts of the building.

In addition to the drawings for the shell of the building, a series of drawings is usually required to resolve the design and illustrate the interiors. These can include kitchen, bathroom and laundry details, window details, electrical layouts, joinery details and stair/ baluster details.

A building specification will be provided by High House, together with schedules for fixtures, fittings and finishes if required.

The drawings will allow the builder to accurately price the work and efficiently realise the design on site. This way, the builder can manage the building program to avoid cost and time overruns.

Other Skills and Services

Passive Solar and Sustainable Design – Considered attention to these issues contribute to the making of practical and comfortable spaces and are central to the design approach at High House. Where adaptation and /or reuse is possible we work to transform and improve spaces— a sustainable and often more affordable approach.

Bushfire - High House has designed homes in bushfire zones in Australia. Our knowledge of requirements for the build and its documentation enables our designs to meet the required standards.

Accessible buildings - High House has designed various projects to allow for accessibility for people with disability in accordance with Australian and NDIS standards.

Secondary and Multi-Generational Living – High House has successfully designed secondary dwellings or 'granny flats’ and homes capable of accommodating various generations. This can provide value and flexibility to properties and can assist in ongoing affordability.

Heritage – Many of the projects High House has done are in Heritage Conservation Areas and are sensitively conceived in consideration of their context. Consultation with Heritage authorities and experts can be undertaken to ensure approvals proceed as planned.

Latest Trends and Technology – As members of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, High House keeps up to date with the latest information within the building industry. The latest materials, finishes and fixtures are investigated, and the latest computer software is used to communicate and illustrate proposals.