(Approach) — How we work
Slow by
design.
Six unhurried phases, one pair of hands. Here is exactly how a project moves from a first conversation to a building that grows kinder with time.
See the six phases
↓
Good architecture is mostly patience. We spend longer listening and looking than most studios spend drawing — because the best ideas usually come from the site itself, and from the people who will live there.
(02) — Six phases
From a first conversation to aftercare.
Typical timings for a private home. Larger or public projects follow the same rhythm, only longer.
Listen
Weeks 1–2
We begin with long conversations — about how you live, work and gather, and what you hope the building will feel like in twenty years.
You receive —
Brief document
Priorities & budget
Initial timeline
Read the site
Weeks 2–4
We walk the site at dawn, noon and dusk; measure sun, wind and views; and study the planning context and local craft traditions.
You receive —
Site analysis
Sun & wind studies
Planning review
Concept
Weeks 4–10
Hand sketches and card models explore two or three clear ideas. Together we choose one direction and refine it until it feels inevitable.
You receive —
Sketchbook
Study models
Concept presentation
Design & detail
Months 3–6
Every room, joint and material is drawn and tested. Engineers join the team, samples weather on our studio roof, and the budget is checked at each step.
You receive —
Full drawing set
Material samples
Cost plan
Permits & tender
Months 6–9
We prepare and follow the planning application, then invite trusted builders to tender and help you choose the right team.
You receive —
Planning application
Tender package
Builder selection
Build & aftercare
Months 9–24
We are on site every week until the keys are handed over — then return after a year to see how the building lives and adjust what’s needed.
You receive —
Weekly site visits
Handover manual
One-year review
Transparent fees
A fixed fee per phase, agreed in writing before any drawing begins. No surprises.
Sustainable by default
Passive design, local materials and low-energy systems come as standard — never as extras.
Built to be repaired
Every detail is tested against one question: could a local craftsperson repair it in fifty years?
85%
Local materials
sourced within 150 km of site
0
PVC or foams
in any building since 2019
100 yr
Design life
for every structure we draw
(05) — Fees
Clear fees, agreed before we draw.
Our fee is typically 10–14% of construction cost, depending on complexity. It is split across the six phases, so you only commit to the next step when you are happy with the last.
Start a conversation
Phase
Share of fee
Listen & read the site
10%
Concept
15%
Design & detail
30%
Permits & tender
15%
Build & aftercare
30%