We’re thrilled that three of our recent project have been Highly Commended by the jury in this years Trends TIDA Awards for Home of the Year!
A great selection of our projects stretching over much of Sydney, from the Northern suburbs, into the Inner West and over to the East.
Project: Treeview House
Location: Northbridge NSW
Photography: Life In Still
Project: Truro
Location: Stanmore NSW
Photography: Life In Still
Project: Twelve Black
Location: Mascot NSW
Photography: Kat Lu
Research conducted by the University of Melbourne and Architeam Cooperative has found that houses with renovations designed by small-practice architects outperformed non-architect-designed houses on the property market.
The research compared the aggregate value of two groups of properties: an architect-designed group and a non-architect designed group.
“For every dollar that was spent on engaging an architect, the property gained $11.40 in capital appreciation. For example, on architects fees of $10,000, the added value after ten years would be an impressive $114,000. So, whilst architectural services fees might seem high when compared with going it alone, the value returned on this investment in the long term is much higher.”
Source: www.architeam.net.au
Read the full ArchiTeam Cooperative article here.
We recently sat down for a coffee at Enmore House with Annika and Blake from myinnerwestaddress.
Owner’s Helen and Tony discussed their initial purchase and the blood, sweat and tears that went into creating their dream home.
Imagine buying your very own Inner West address for $156,000. If you did you likely bought around the same time as Tony and Helen Deas 26 years ago. Your only regret, that you didn’t buy two or three, hindsight is such a wonderful thing. Mind you 26 years ago $156,000 felt like an enormous amount, especially for a dark and gloomy almost derelict semi on a snug 200m site in Enmore that needed buckets in the roof space to catch the leaks. At the time interest rates were around 15 per cent and buying this home was a total leap of faith for Helen and Tony. When they looked in the Real Estate Agent’s window the home that caught their eye was the cheapest one. The ad said “this home needs some TLC” – it needed far more than that.
Read the full article: here
Finding the right architect for you can be a daunting task.
By no means are all architects equal. Each have their own unique set of skills based on experience and education.
Things to consider when looking for an architect;
Recommendations
Ask around - friends, family, neighbours. It's the best way to get an unbiased opinion of an architect’s service.
If you have seen a new home or renovation that you love, try knocking on the door. Owners are usually really proud of their new home, and would be happy to chat or (if you’re lucky) even show you around.
Location
Keep an eye out for construction work in your area. Drop by and chat with the builder. Call the architect to get a feel for their work.
Council area
Every council advertises ‘current 'DAs’ on their website. It's a great resource for owners to view work being proposed in their area and will give you an idea of what is possible, and who can help you achieve it.
Experience
Most architects have specialised experience in a particular building type/s. Think about the key problems of your property, and the outcomes you would like to achieve. Consider architects that have experience in these areas; sustainability, small south-facing sites, improved connections to the outdoors, waterfront properties, the list is endless.
Value
I use the term ‘value’ deliberately. Often, the term ‘cost’ is thrown around - “how much does an architect cost?” is a reasonably common google search. (Click here for to view our article, ‘Architectural Fees - What To Expect” Unfortunately it is not so simple, and like most things, you generally get what you pay for.
Good design has been shown to increase the value of your home or investment. When considering architectural fees compared to the total costs of a build, the overall differences between architects, or architects and drafts-people are minimal. (Click here to view our article, What is an Architect?).
A relatively small additional investment early can result in quicker and higher sale prices. Well designed properties that take all aspects into account, can produce an emotional response within a buyer, and result in a higher return on investment.
Personality
The architectural process is long and occasionally frustrating. Building your new home may be one of the most enjoyable, yet taxing things you do in your life. It is important to have a good relationship and trust in your architect. A personality clash early on can lead to a stressful and messy situation for all involved. This is where recommendations help. If you don’t have any, ask for references that you can contact to chat with. Some questions to consider;
Was the architect easy to contact and responsive?
Did the architect act professionally?
Were you satisfied with the service provided?
Did the architect provide unique design solutions?
Did they push your initial design ideas?
Did the architect charge unreasonable variations?
Did the process run smoothly?
Are you still on good terms with your architect?
Would you recommend them to a friend?
From start to finish, the architectural process for your average new build or renovation can take 18-24 months.
In that time, there are a number of steps that ensure the best design, approval pathways, documentation and construction has taken place.
As your architect, we guide you through the entire process from our initial meeting till hand over of the keys to your new home.
For many homeowners, it is a completely new experience, and there is a lot to remember. As a guide, we have developed our ‘Architectural Process Flowchart’ to help guide you through each stage, and your role.
Note, the Complying Development Certificate (CDC) follows a similar pathway, with a combined single approval in lieu of the Development Application and Construction Certificate.
Architectural Process Flowchart
Many people are unaware of the differences between an architect and a draftsperson/building designer.
5-year university degree* focusing on design, documentation, law and practice
Min. 3300 hours of work under the supervision of a registered architect
National Examination of professional knowledge
Examination by interview
Continued annual professional education (CPD)
Annual re-registration to demonstrate professional development requirements
2-year TAFE / College training* focusing on documentation
There are no licensing requirements for draftspeople / building designers in the following states/territories (check the rules in your state for what is required for your project);
New South Wales
Australian Capital Territory
South Australia
Western Australia
Northern Territory
*It is important to also note the entry requirements for the formal training.
The current ATAR for Architecture in metropolitan universities (such as USYD, UNSW) is 95.00.
There are no formal ATAR requirement for the TAFE NSW course, however CQUniversity offers a part-time Bachelor of Building Design with a 65.00 ATAR requirement.
All that said, you will find good and bad services in any profession. Type ‘architect vs draftsperson’ in google and you’ll see some interesting arguments for each, however it usually gets down to cost. My general view is, like with most things, you get what you pay for.
To break it down, for a typical residential home renovation or new build, an architect, draftsperson or building designer are all capable of acting in a similar role. However, do not be mistaken that the result will be equal.
In my opinion, architects are design specialists. The formal education that all architects must undertake focuses on logical and creative problem-solving to produce the best result for any individual project. They are trained in the documentation and delivery of these ideas throughout the approvals and construction process at university and in practice.
A draftsperson or building designer, on the other hand, are specialised in the documentation and delivery of projects. In larger scale practices, they work along-side architects to assist in preparing drawings based on prepared designs. The formal education focuses on the understanding of the construction of buildings and how best to document them for the building contractor. It is argued that this approach does not result in professionals that stay up-to-date with current design or construction techniques, or push the boundaries outside what they have been formally taught.
When asked why architects can be more expensive than drafting services, Amelia Lee, The Undercover Architect put simply as,
An orthopedic surgeon is more expensive than a general practitioner. A solicitor is more expensive than a legal secretary. A chartered accountant is more expensive than a non-chartered accountant. A licensed builder is more expensive than a handyman.
More education, more training, more licensing = higher expectations = higher risk = higher insurance. All of these things can add up to higher cost for service.
Similarly, architects are specialists in design.
The difference between good design and great design is time. Generally, architects will spend longer in the design stage to ensure all options have been adequately explored. They will challenge the client and the brief to help you better understand the potential outcomes and the benefits.
I do admit, my opinion is somewhat biased and generalised. I have spoken to many owners that have had poor experiences with both architects and draftspeople. All clients have their own requirements and expectations. Ask around, gather information and make the right decision for you. Check out our article “Finding the Right Architect”
The use of the title ‘architect’ is protected by law. Only people registered with the Architects Registration Board may use this title.
To obtain this title requires appropriate formal qualifications (typically a 5-year university degree) and experience, and involves passing of a three-part exam and interview process with a state registration board.
Architects in NSW must comply with the NSW Architects Code of Professional Conduct, which sets out the standards expected of an architect in professional practice. These include general ethical standards, methods of dealing with you, maintaining their professional insurance coverage, undertaking professional development to improve and maintain their skills, resolving disputes, and professional relationships with other architects. Architects must hold professional indemnity insurance appropriate to the services they provide and each year undertake professional development to maintain and improve their skills.
Registered architects are required to clearly display their registration number on any published material, including websites, business cards and architectural documentation.
You can check the status of an architect’s registration at the NSW architects website, by following the link below and selecting ‘search register’
https://www.architects.nsw.gov.au/
The NSW Architects Registration Board is a statutory authority responsible for registering architects, approving architectural education, conducting inquiries into the conduct of architects, investigating misuse of the title Architect and promoting a better understanding of architectural matters in the community.
The registration board has also prepared a document to assist the public in understanding the role and services provided by architects.
It’s always nice to revisit completed projects.
This week we sat down with Vanessa from Houzz to discuss the design intent behind Enmore House.
A Semi-Detached Home in Sydney Maximised for a Growing Family
Like so many east-coast city homes, this three-bedroom semi just hadn’t caught up with the times. It was dark, disconnected from the courtyard and too small for a family of four, including two teenagers. To connect the living spaces to the rear courtyard, architect Amrish Maharaj Architect redesigned the rear of the house, and gave the parents a private upstairs retreat.
View the full article here
On some narrow, inner-city sites it's inconceivable how it's possible to create a light-filled and spacious family home. And it doesn't get much more narrow than 3 metres. At this Newtown home in inner Sydney, Amrish Maharaj Architect has pulled it off...
Read the full article here.
An impressive initiative by Inner West council to move towards a greener future.
‘ Council committed to becoming fully invested in non-fossil fuel funds at its first meeting following the 2017 election. The achievement of 100 per cent divestment from fossil fuels is well ahead of schedule.
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said that Council was determined to take a national leadership role in sustainability.
“Being the first Council to become 100 per cent divested from fossil fuels is a significant step forward in achieving Council’s renewable energy goals.
“Transferring all of our investments into non-fossil fuel funds is a moral act but also a financially prudent one. We join a long list of organisations around the world that are making this environmental statement.
“We today call on the big four Australian banks and the NSW government to develop financial products that will allow more organisations to follow our lead.” '
Read the full article, and more intiatives on council’s website.
What started as a simple kitchen upgrade of the investment property for a lovely retired couple became an unforgettably personal experience, with the entire team of designers, consultants and contractors banding together when the client received a shock diagnosis, and ultimately lost his battle with cancer during the short build. The project, Kenneth, has been named in his memory.
Congratulations to all the finalists and winners of the 2019 Marrickville Medal.
We are honoured to have had Enmore House shortlisted alongside a selection of great projects in the Innerwest.
Excited to receive final images for ‘Muriel’ a 3m wide single storey semi-detached dwelling in inner-city Newtown.
The project has been named after the original owner, who we joked was watching over construction to enure an acceptable result. We assume, since the work was completed on time and budget that she approved the changes to her original home.
Follow the links to more images and the full story of ‘Muriel’.
Very excited to be nominated along with many amazing projects for ArchDaily's Building of the Year Awards 2019!
Congratulations to all the shortlisted entries and winners!
A very exciting DA lodged to Innerwest Council today for a new 'Hempcrete' secondary dwelling in Annandale.
The building materials selected aim to create an energy efficient and sustainable home that will be exemplary to developments in the local area.
"I look at the range of materials out there and I cannot find one that can match HEMP. I can't find one that has such a low embodied energy, that locks carbon in [and] has such a low environmental impact." - Kevin McCloud
Advantages of Hempcrete include;
High Thermal Insulation
50-80% energy savings
Fire proof
Termite Resistant
Breathable Walls
Prevents Mould
CO2 Sequestration (108kg/1sq.m)
Negative Carbon Footprint
Healthy Living Environment
Inherently Airtight
High Acoustic Performance
No Waste
Low Air Infiltration
Zero Land Fill
High Acoustic Performance
No Waste
Low Air Infiltration
Zero Land Fill
Winner winner!
A huge congratulations to Chris, Gavin and the team at Riverside Building for their win for Enmore House on Saturday night.
A special thank you to our amazing clients who were instrumental in preparing the nomination.
Riverside are currently working on two more of our projects in Newtown and Dulwich Hill, with completion expected before the end of the year.
A big thank you to Brodie, at the Lunchbox Architect for today's feature on Enmore House.
Read the full article here.
If you haven't already stumbled across the Lunchbox Architect, I would definitely recommend subscribing. Great articles, photos and architectural drawings. It is a great resource for any designer, or owner looking for some inspiration.
Thrilled to wake up to a feature on Enmore House on ArchDaily this morning.
Read the full article: here
A wonderful article featuring our recently completed Enmore House in Australian Design Review.
Read the full article here
Very excited to see Enmore House be selected as one of 10 Modern Homes That Seamlessly Blend Indoor and Outdoor Spaces on Design Milk.
