"Navigating the Path from Concept to Preliminary Designs: A Guide to Your Renovation Journey"

So, you’ve got a vision for your dream renovation project, and you’ve taken the exciting first step with concept designs. You’re now within striking distance of turning that vision into reality. But there’s an important phase ahead – moving from concept designs to preliminary designs – and it involves a bit more than you might think. Let’s explore this crucial transition and the steps that lead you from dreams to detailed plans with Complexx Design and Renovate by your side.

1. Concept Designs to Preliminary Designs: A Closer Look

Before we delve into the nitty-gritty, here’s a quick overview of the process. You’ve already defined your vision through concept designs, and you’re within 95% of your budget. What comes next are preliminary designs and a package of documents that will support your project through council approval and construction.

2. The Comprehensive Package:

Your preliminary design package is a treasure trove of essential documents, including:

  • Site Plan: A detailed layout of your property, showing proposed changes and structures.
  • Survey: Precise measurements and property boundaries.
  • Calculations Page: Crunching the numbers to ensure everything aligns with your budget.
  • Site Analysis Plan: Examining factors like sun exposure, topography, and more.
  • Elevations: Visual representations of your project from different angles.
  • Shadow Diagrams: Evaluating how your renovation might affect sunlight and shade.
  • Floor Plans: The layout of your new space, room by room.

Plus, there are supporting documents that play a crucial role in the approval process:

  • Statement of Environmental Effects: Assessing the environmental impact of your project.
  • Waste Management Plan: Addressing how waste will be handled during construction.
  • Basix (Building Sustainability Index): Ensuring your project meets sustainability standards.

Depending on your property and project, you might need additional supporting documents like bushfire reports, flood reports, or acoustic reports.

3. Costing and Lodgement:

Here’s where your investment starts to show results. The preparation of these documents and drawings and their lodgement with a Private Certifying Agent (PCA) or your local council marks a significant step. You’ll need to decide whether to submit your project as a Complying Development Concept (CDC) or a Development Application (DA) and Construction Certificate (CC).

  • Costing: The cost for preparing and lodging these documents typically starts at $6500.
  • Lodgement: The preparation of the lodgement for either CDC or DA/CC starts from $8500.

4. Gathering Essential Documentation:

While your preliminary designs are in the approval pipeline, you’ll need to collect documentation to ensure a smooth construction phase:

  • Engineering Plans and Certification: Ensuring your existing home can support the new addition.
  • Sewer Service Diagram: Confirming your sewer connections.
  • Sydney Water Check: Ensuring your project aligns with water regulations.
  • Home Warranty Insurance: Required for all works over $20,000.
  • Long Service Levy: Mandatory for all works over $20,000.
  • Any Other Supporting Documents: Depending on your project’s specifics.

5. Timeline and Approval:

Allow about 3-4 months from the initial planning phase to council approval. Once you have the green light, you can take your council approvals and the fixed-price contract to finalize the approvals with your lender.

Conclusion:

Going from concept to preliminary designs is an exciting journey, but it involves careful planning, documentation, and collaboration with experts who understand the intricacies of the process. This transition is where your dreams start to take shape, and each step brings you closer to the reality of your dream renovation. At Complexx Design and Renovate, we’re here to guide you through this journey, ensuring that every detail is meticulously handled, from the drawing board to final approvals. Your dream renovation awaits!

Share on Socials!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest

areas we service

  1. Wollongong: The largest city in the Illawarra, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and the University of Wollongong.

  2. Shellharbour: A coastal suburb with picturesque beaches and the Shellharbour Village, offering a relaxed lifestyle.

  3. Kiama: Famous for its stunning coastline, including the Kiama Blowhole and pristine beaches, popular for surfing and fishing.

  4. Thirroul: A charming coastal town with a laid-back atmosphere, known for its surf culture and boutique shops.

  5. Bulli: Nestled between the escarpment and the sea, Bulli offers a mix of coastal living and natural beauty, with a famous ocean pool and scenic drives.

  6. Port Kembla: Home to a major industrial port, Port Kembla also features beautiful beaches and parks, undergoing revitalization efforts.

  7. Dapto: A growing suburb with a mix of residential and rural areas, offering convenient access to amenities and outdoor activities.

  8. Figtree: A leafy suburb located inland, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, shopping centers, and proximity to Wollongong.

  9. Warilla: A coastal suburb with a relaxed beachside vibe, popular for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.

  10. Albion Park: Known for its aviation history and the Illawarra Regional Airport, Albion Park offers a mix of residential and rural living.

  11. Bowral: Known for its gardens, boutique shops, and cafes, Bowral is the largest town in the Southern Highlands and is famous for its Tulip Time festival.

  12. Mittagong: A historic town with a charming main street, Mittagong offers a mix of heritage buildings, antique shops, and natural attractions like Mount Gibraltar.

  13. Moss Vale: Nestled in the rolling hills, Moss Vale features a vibrant arts scene, farmers’ markets, and beautiful parks like Leighton Gardens.

  14. Bundanoon: Renowned for its picturesque scenery and bushwalking trails, Bundanoon is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Highlands” and hosts the annual Brigadoon Highland Gathering.

  15. Berrima: Steeped in history, Berrima is characterized by its well-preserved Georgian architecture, quaint cafes, and the iconic Berrima Courthouse.

  16. Robertson: Known for its lush countryside, Robertson is surrounded by dairy farms and is famous for its Big Potato landmark and Pie Time festival.

  17. Exeter: A tranquil village with a strong sense of community, Exeter offers scenic drives, local produce markets, and the historic Sutton Forest Inn.

  18. Sutton Forest: Set amidst picturesque farmland, Sutton Forest is known for its wineries, historic estates, and the scenic drive along the Old Hume Highway.

  19. Caringbah: A bustling commercial hub with shopping centers and a vibrant community atmosphere.

  20. Cronulla: Famous for its beautiful beaches, surf culture, and lively cafes and restaurants along the coastline.

  21. Engadine: A leafy suburb nestled amidst bushland, offering a peaceful residential environment with access to nature reserves.

  22. Kirrawee: Known for its convenient location, with a major train station and shopping precinct, making it popular among commuters.

  23. Menai: Surrounded by bushland and parks, Menai provides a tranquil suburban lifestyle with plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities.

  24. Miranda: A retail and entertainment hub featuring one of the largest shopping centers in the area, along with a diverse range of dining options.

  25. Sutherland: The administrative center of Sutherland Shire, offering a mix of residential and commercial areas, as well as access to public transportation.

  26. Woronora: A riverside suburb with a close-knit community vibe, popular for its water activities and scenic views.

  27. Woronora Heights: Positioned on the slopes of the Woronora Plateau, this suburb offers a peaceful retreat with bushland surroundings and panoramic views.

  28. Yarrawarrah: A quiet residential area bordered by the Royal National Park, providing a serene setting with easy access to nature trails.

  29. Bangor: A family-friendly suburb known for its spacious homes, parks, and recreational facilities, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

  30. Bonnet Bay: Nestled along the shores of the Port Hacking River, Bonnet Bay offers a relaxed waterfront lifestyle with picturesque views.