Baldwin O'Bryan Architects
FAQ | Baldwin O’Bryan Architects & Karru Built

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you’ll find answers to over 50 common questions we get from homeowners, builders, consultants, and clients about permits, proposals, approvals, building resilience, architecture, engineering, and working with us.

Permits & Approvals

What is a Permit & Proposal Pack?

A complete set of engineered drawings and documents, prepared with architectural oversight, that help streamline council approvals and guide construction.

Do I need council approval for renovations?

Yes, most extensions and renovations require approval. Our packs are designed to meet council requirements and the NCC/AS standards.

What’s included in a Karru Built pack?

Concept drawings, compliance reports, engineering sign-off, risk assessments (bushfire, flood, storm), and submission-ready documents.

How long does council approval take?

Anywhere from 4–12 weeks depending on council, complexity, and if further information is requested. Our role is to reduce delays by preparing clean documentation.

Do you handle CDC approvals under NSW Housing Reforms?

Yes, we prepare packs for CDC approvals including duplexes and infill housing. We also guide clients when council trees or setbacks complicate approvals.

Can you help with town planning overlays?

Yes, we identify overlays (heritage, vegetation, bushfire, flood) and prepare compliant designs accordingly.

Architecture & Design

What is earth-sheltered design?

Homes embedded into landform for natural insulation, bushfire resistance, and reduced visual impact.

Do underground homes feel dark?

No, we use courtyards, light-scoops, and correct orientation to bring in natural light.

Why concrete arches?

Arches are efficient, resilient under wind and fire, reduce material, and create calm interiors.

Can storm resilient homes look beautiful?

Yes, resilience and elegance can coexist—curved forms, durable finishes, and smart detailing achieve both.

What are eco-friendly materials you recommend?

Low-carbon concrete, FSC-certified timber, recycled steel, low-VOC finishes, natural insulation, and green roofs.

Do you design eco resorts?

Yes, we’ve designed eco resorts that showcase resilience and sustainability in retreat environments.

Construction & Builders

Do you work directly with builders?

Yes, we collaborate closely with builders, engineers, and consultants to ensure drawings are buildable and compliant.

What if my builder is slow or unreliable?

You may involve a building consultant to mediate, set expectations, or escalate contractually. We often step in to keep projects on track.

What if my builder walks off the job?

Engage a building consultant first. Then consider legal avenues or engaging a replacement builder. Legal costs depend on contract terms and insurance.

Can I use my own builder?

Yes, we prepare documentation usable by any licensed builder, and can recommend trusted partners from our directory.

Do builders get free exposure in your directory?

Yes, our Trusted Builders & Consultants directory offers free listings with strong site traffic and visibility.

How do I join the Trusted Directory?

Complete our intake form at this link, and we’ll add your profile.

Risk & Compliance

Do you prepare bushfire assessments?

Yes, bushfire overlays and BAL ratings are included in our risk checks and design responses.

Do you handle flood zones?

Yes, we raise floor levels, manage drainage, and design embankments or earth berms where required.

What about storm resilience?

We design homes to shed wind, resist uplift, and avoid stormwater ingress with smart siting and details.

Are materials chosen for fire resistance?

Yes, non-combustible concrete, steel, and protected openings are standard in bushfire-prone sites.

Do you include engineering sign-off?

Yes, every Permit & Proposal Pack is engineer-prepared and architect-overseen.

Costs & Budgets

How much does a Permit & Proposal Pack cost?

Costs vary by project complexity. Packs are typically a fraction of total project cost, designed to save delays and rework.

Do resilient homes cost more?

Upfront costs may be slightly higher, but long-term savings in maintenance and insurance outweigh them.

What’s the cost of eco-friendly materials?

Some eco products are more upfront, but reduce lifecycle costs and add value in approvals and health.

Can you estimate construction costs early?

Yes, we bring in builders or cost consultants during concept to align design with budget.

Do you charge hourly or fixed?

For packs, mostly fixed fees. For ongoing consulting, hourly or milestone-based.

Client Experience

What’s the first step?

Book an initial chat. We’ll review your site, risks, and goals, then prepare a tailored proposal.

Do you work interstate?

Yes, we cover all of Australia through local consultants and remote coordination.

Can you do staged deliverables?

Yes, we often prepare staged packages (A01–A14) with clear milestones.

Do you include furniture layouts?

Yes, for concept clarity and to check room proportions, though not always for detailed construction.

Do you provide 3D visualisations?

Yes, 3D models and sketches are provided to help visualise concepts and site integration.

Do you assist with disputes?

Yes, we act as consultants to clarify contracts, documentation, and compliance, often avoiding costly legal steps.

Builders & Consultants Directory

What is the Trusted Builders & Consultants Directory?

A free listing platform that connects clients to vetted builders, architects, and consultants across Australia.

Why list my business?

Free exposure, daily site traffic, and collaboration opportunities with Karru Built.

Can homeowners browse the directory?

Yes, homeowners can browse by state, type of service, and connect directly.

Do you vet listings?

Yes, listings are checked for licensing, compliance, and professional relevance.

Can consultants outside Australia join?

Yes, we also collaborate with overseas consultants, especially for drafting and technical support.

Miscellaneous

Where are you based?

Sydney & Melbourne, with projects across VIC, NSW, TAS, and WA.

Do you prepare complete architectural drawing sets?

Yes, including scaled site plans, context diagrams, elevations, and detailed sections for submission.

Do you use JotForm for intake?

Yes, all builder/consultant intake is via JotForm for consistency and easy data handling.

Can you work with owner-builders?

Yes, we prepare packs to assist owner-builders with compliance and approvals.

Do you prepare marketing content?

Yes, for projects we often prepare SEO-ready project write-ups for websites and press.