Full Services.
While many projects follow the full process shown below, we can also assist with individual stages depending on your needs.
The concept design stage is where we explore the possibilities for your property and establish a clear direction for the project.
Rather than focusing solely on the immediate brief, we often take a broader master planning approach, considering how the home, landscape and site may evolve over time. This can be particularly valuable for staged renovations, growing families, acreage properties and projects where budget constraints may require works to be completed over several phases.
During this stage we may explore:
Multiple design options and layout strategies
Opportunities and constraints across the site
Future additions or long-term master planning
Staging strategies to maximise value and minimise rework
Building form, orientation and connections to outdoor spaces
Preliminary discussions around budget and project priorities
The outcome is a clear design direction that balances your goals, budget, site constraints and long-term vision for the property.
Concept Design & Master Planning
Design Development
During this stage, our focus is on refining the design so it not only looks beautiful, but also feels functional, comfortable, and cohesive. We model everything in 3D to test ideas, resolve details, and make sure the design truly works. 3D views help illustrate how spaces connect, how light moves through them, and how the overall form takes shape. Because the process is collaborative, your feedback continues to guide the design, ensuring it grows into something that truly reflects your needs, aspirations, and way of living.
Planning Application
At this stage, we prepare the detailed application package - either a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), depending on the chosen pathway. We coordinate with the required consultants, compile all documentation, and manage the lodgement through the NSW Planning Portal to obtain approval from council or a private certifier.
Construction Documentation
To translate the concept into reality, we prepare comprehensive and precise construction drawings. These include detailed specifications for finishes, materials, fixtures, joinery, and other design elements. This level of detail ensures seamless communication with builders, contractors, and suppliers, enabling the design to be executed with accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, the detailed documentation provides clarity for builders and trades during the tender process, helping to generate more accurate and consistent pricing.
Interior Design
We select all finishes and present the internal layouts of all joinery, kitchens and bathrooms to you. We complete highly technical drawings of the interior joinery and bathroom layouts for construction.
Tender & Builder Selection
Once the documentation is complete, we can assist with obtaining and reviewing builder quotations.
Depending on the project, this may involve:
Preparing and issuing tender packages
Responding to builder questions during pricing
Reviewing and comparing quotations
Identifying differences in scope or allowances
Assisting with builder selection
Providing recommendations prior to entering into a building contract
A structured tender process can help improve pricing transparency and ensure builders are pricing the same scope of works.
Construction Certificate
We prepare Construction Certificate drawings and a package of consultants based on the conditions of consent to a private certifier to commence construction.
Services During Construction
During construction we help protect the quality of the design and provide an independent layer of oversight. Depending on your needs, our involvement may include:
Attending site meetings at key milestones
Reviewing shop drawings and material samples
Responding to Requests for Information (RFIs)
Assessing variations that may impact the design or budget
Reviewing progress claims
Monitoring construction for consistency with the approved documentation
Providing written site reports and recommendations
We can provide full contract administration or a tailored level of involvement depending on the complexity of the project. This helps ensure decisions made during construction remain aligned with the original design intent.
FAQs.
Do I need to engage Elo for every stage of the process?
No. While many clients engage us for a complete project from concept design through to construction, others engage us for a specific stage only.
Depending on your needs, we can assist with master planning, concept design, development applications, construction documentation or construction phase services. We are happy to discuss the most appropriate level of involvement for your project.
What is the first step?
The first step depends on the stage of your project.
For clients who are still exploring ideas, considering a property purchase or trying to determine the best path forward, we typically recommend starting with a Design Discovery.
For clients with a clear brief and readiness to commence design, we generally begin with Concept Design and Master Planning. This stage allows us to explore design options, establish project priorities, identify potential constraints and develop a clear direction before moving into detailed design and approvals.
If you're unsure where to start, get in touch and we'll recommend the most appropriate next step for your project.
How long does the design process take?
Every project is different, however a typical project may take:
Concept Design: 4 – 8 weeks
Design Development: 4 – 8 weeks
Construction Documentation: 8 –12 weeks
We will provide a tailored programme once we understand your project requirements.
What if I want to renovate in stages?
Many of our projects are completed over multiple stages. During the concept design phase, we can help develop a master plan that considers both your immediate priorities and long-term goals.
This approach helps avoid unnecessary rework and ensures future additions are considered from the outset.
How much will my project cost to build?
Construction costs vary significantly depending on location, site conditions, level of finish and project complexity.
We discuss budget openly throughout the design process and involve builders or quantity surveyor early to provide cost guidance before major design decisions are locked in.
Can you work with my builder?
Absolutely.
We regularly collaborate with builders throughout the design process and can incorporate their feedback to improve buildability, programme and budget outcomes.
Do I need to have a builder selected before engaging an architect?
No.
Many clients engage us well before selecting a builder. In fact, involving an architect early often results in a clearer brief, better design outcomes and a more informed tender process.
Can you help select a builder?
Yes.
We can recommend builders who may be suitable for your project and can assist with tendering, reviewing quotes and comparing proposals.
Yes.
We prepare and coordinate the documentation required for Development Applications (DA) and work closely with consultants, certifiers and councils throughout the approval process.
Can you help with council approvals?
Do you only work on large projects?
No.
We work on a range of projects, from carefully considered renovations and additions through to new homes and rural estates.
Our focus is always on creating thoughtful, enduring homes that respond to their site and the way our clients live.
Can you stay involved during construction?
Yes.
Many clients choose to engage us during construction to help ensure the project is delivered in accordance with the design intent.
This may include site inspections, responding to builder queries, reviewing samples and assisting with variations.
What areas do you service?
We primarily work throughout Sydney's North Shore and Northern Beaches, as well as regional and rural properties across New South Wales.
We also consider selected projects outside these areas.