Starting the Architectural Process Doesn’t Have to Be Scary

Beginning a new build or renovation can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the key steps and common questions I get asked, based on 24 years of experience. Whether you’re working with a partner, managing a tight budget, or unsure where to begin, this guide is here to help you feel confident, informed, and in control.

01 – Budget vs Aspirations: Finding the Balance Early

This is one of the biggest tension points in any project. You’ve probably heard the phrase, “a champagne taste on a beer budget.” It’s a reality many face: your aspirations and your actual budget might not align.

When I start a concept design, there are usually two extremes:

• Design strictly to budget.

• Design strictly to aspirations.

But both can lead to disappointment. If I design only to budget, you might feel unheard. If I design to aspirations, the builder’s quote may be out of reach. That’s why I’ve developed a third approach—bringing budget and aspirations together from the outset.

This means having a real conversation during the consultation. We explore what you want, what you can afford, and how we can make those work together. Often, this also helps couples align if they have slightly different visions. One client even joked that architecture school must include marriage counselling!

You don’t need a perfect, polished wishlist to begin. My job is to guide and support you in defining it—and making it achievable.

02 – Project Budget vs Build Budget: Know the Difference

A common point of confusion is what the word “budget” actually refers to.

I recently had a renovation consult with a couple and their builder. The builder had estimated $700–900k for the work. When I asked the clients their budget, they said $700k—including GST and all fees. The builder quickly clarified that his estimate didn’t include GST, design, consent, or consultant fees.

No one was being dishonest—it’s just that builders and architects think about budgets differently.

As a client, what you need to know is the total project budget—everything from consents and fees to GST and contingency. What we need to know as design and build professionals is your build budget—the portion of your funds allocated to construction.

By clearly identifying what’s included in each part of the budget, we can avoid costly surprises and avoid stripping the design back later (aka “value engineering”—a soul-crushing process for clients).

This step is also where we identify project-specific cost factors:

• Site access or remote location

• Specification level

• Desire for Passive House or Homestar performance

The more we know upfront, the better we can tailor the design to suit your needs.

03 – How Long Does This Take?

It’s a fair question—and one I get asked often. But giving a generic timeframe doesn’t help you.

Plans aren’t a product—they’re instructions. They show your design is compliant with the NZ Building Code and allow the builder to quote and construct accurately. Rushing them doesn’t help anyone.

Instead, we map out what needs to be done for your specific project and build a realistic timeframe around your life. You might have work, kids, social commitments—your project should fit around these, not take over.

There will be a lot of decisions to make, from tiles to hot water systems. You deserve the time and space to make them well, not rushed. A house is often your biggest financial asset—it should enhance your life, not increase your stress.

04 – What Does the Process Look Like?

Here’s an overview of the Smart Living Spaces process. Each step has a purpose and builds on the last. You’ll always know where you are, what’s next, and what you’re paying for.

1. Design Consultation
We cover your brief, aspirations, budget, and project needs. You receive a written report and a fixed-fee proposal.

2. Site Visit & Measure-Up
For renovations, I measure the existing home and model it accurately. For new builds, this step is a site walkover.

3. Concept Design
We bring your vision to life. I provide a 3D walkthrough so you can experience your home—not just read plans.

4. Concept Design Meeting
We sit down to review, adjust, and refine the design. Budget alignment is reassessed.

5. Developed Design
Now we fine-tune. We look at materials, building systems, performance modelling, and begin decisions around energy use and comfort.

6. Developed Design Meeting
We review again—questions are welcome. Every stage is about clarity, not rushing.

7–8. Resource Consent (if required)
If planning rules require it, we lodge Resource Consent at this stage.

9. Passive House / Homestar (if applicable)
This is where we prepare submissions for certification and ensure the design supports performance goals.

10–11. Building Consent
This is the technical stage. Plans are prepared to meet NZBC and support builder pricing.

12. Design Certification
If doing Passive House or Homestar, we lodge your certifications now.

13. On-Site Observation
I support you and your builder through construction, helping manage design or compliance questions.

05 – Who Makes the Design Decisions?

You do.

There’s a fear that working with an architect or designer means giving up control. That’s not how I work. This is your home. You’re the decision-maker. My job is to inform, advise, and guide.

The reason we take a staged approach is so you have the time and space to understand, reflect, and decide. Nothing moves forward without your sign-off.

I make it happen—but never without you.

06 – Getting It Right from the Start

There’s often pressure to get it perfect before speaking to a designer—but that’s not your job.

You don’t need a complete brief or perfect Pinterest board to start. That’s what the consultation is for: to help shape your vision, align it with your budget, and set a strong foundation.

You don’t have to do it alone. That’s why I’m here.

07 – Fear of Being Locked In

Another common fear: that you’ll pay a large fee upfront and not know what you’re getting.

At Smart Living Spaces, I list out what you receive at each stage, and the cost associated with it. You can ask as many questions as you like. Each stage only proceeds with your agreement. The Design Consultation is standalone—you walk away with value and clarity, no strings attached.

If it feels right, we move forward. If not, you’re free to use what you’ve learned however suits you best.

Thinking About Your Project?

If you’re starting to plan your build or renovation and want someone who listens, guides, and supports you—book a chat with me.