Planning checklist
Prepare for your first design conversation.
A little preparation makes the first design conversation more useful. You don’t need every answer before you contact us—bring what you have and we’ll discuss the next step.
Project priorities
Clear priorities help the design focus on what matters when trade-offs come up.
Property and ownership
Location and ownership affect zoning, council rules and when design work can sensibly start.
Plans, title and survey
Title documents can reveal easements or covenants; existing plans and surveys reduce guesswork about what is already there.
Photos
Photos give useful context before any site visit is arranged.
Spaces needed
A room list turns ideas into a brief that can be tested against the site and budget.
Sun, privacy and access
Orientation, outlook and access shape the layout as much as the room list does.
Budget and contingency
An honest budget keeps the design realistic; council charges and consultant fees are separate costs.
Timing
Tell us when you need plans so we can confirm availability after reviewing scope.
Decision-makers
Involving everyone early avoids redesign later.
Existing consultants and reports
Geotechnical, engineering or other reports may be required for consent; existing ones can save time.
Inspiration
Examples help communicate style, materials and the feel you're after.
Questions for investigation
Some questions, such as consent requirements or ground conditions, need professional review before they can be answered.
Next step: send us what you have through the enquiry form. We'll review your project and confirm the scope, fees and earliest availability. See how it works or concept design & feasibility if you're still early.