Architectural Process — Our 6-Step Journey
Process
Our Architectural Process for Earth-Sheltered & Resilient Homes
Our architectural process is collaborative, transparent and tailored to your site. Whether you’re pursuing an earth-sheltered home, a project in a bushfire-prone area, or need storm resilience, this 6-step design process moves you from idea to construction with clarity.
You’ll see the architectural process referenced throughout this page in headings, descriptions and image captions—exactly how search engines prefer—so it’s easy to understand how we work and easy for new clients to find this page.
Steps
Our six-phase architectural process
Initial Chat & Site Review
We discuss goals, constraints and context, including bushfire/storm exposure, orientation and access. This anchors the architectural process in first principles and realistic options.
Concept Design
We test massing, daylight, courtyards and view framing with sketches and 3D visuals. Early checks align concept and budget so the process stays efficient.
Design Development
Envelope, openings, waterproofing and BAL strategies are coordinated into a robust scheme. This is where earth-sheltering and resilience are tuned to your site.
Approvals Preparation
We prepare documentation for approvals (clients usually lodge applications). We can guide you on requirements, timing and next steps.
Detailed Documentation
Technical drawings and specifications for tendering and builder pricing, detailing moisture control, drainage and durability for long-term performance.
Construction & Support
We remain available for site queries, clarifications and quality checks so the architectural process ends with a calm handover.
What you receive
Deliverables at Each Step
1) Initial Chat & Site Review
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Short brief & goals summary
- Desktop site read (orientation, access, exposure)
- Feasibility notes & next-step recommendations
2) Concept Design
- Concept plans & massing diagrams
- Daylight / ventilation strategy outline
- Indicative materials & mood references
3) Design Development
- Developed plans, sections & elevations
- Envelope & waterproofing approach
- BAL / bushfire & weathering strategies
4) Approvals Preparation
- Approval drawings set (client lodges)
- Consultant coordination notes & requirements
- Checklist for submission & timelines
5) Detailed Documentation
- Technical details & specifications
- Window/door schedules & materials list
- Tender/pricing package for builders
6) Construction & Support
- RFI responses & site clarifications
- Review checkpoints as required
- Close-out notes and handover guidance
In action
Architectural process — in pictures
FAQ
Common process questions
How long does the process take?
Typically it can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 12 weeks, depending on documentation, subject to approvals.
Do you handle council approvals?
We don’t usually lodge approvals directly, but we prepare all required documentation and can guide you through the process.
Can we adjust the process to suit our project?
Yes. The architectural process is flexible—scope and sequencing can be tailored to your site, budget and timeframe.
What if my site is in a bushfire-prone area?
We develop tailored BAL strategies that balance safety, approvals and design outcomes. See our bushfire-responsive design page.
Do you recommend builders?
Yes, we can introduce builders experienced with earth-sheltered and storm-resilient construction.
Do you work outside NSW?
Yes, we consider projects across Australia, subject to local planning frameworks and project suitability.
Ready to begin?
Book an initial chat and get our free checklist for planning an earth-sheltered, bushfire- and storm-resilient home.
Start Your Project