Services
Design with us. Build with us.
Or both.
With an architect and licensed builder under one roof, each with decades of experience, you choose how we help. Design only, build only, or the complete design-and-build approach.
Three ways to work with us
Start where it suits you.
Path one
Design and Build
We design it, get it approved, then build it. One team, one contract, one point of contact from the first sketch to the keys.
Best if you'd rather not project-manage the gap between the drawings and the site.
Path two
Design Only
We design your home or renovation and document it properly: concepts, working drawings, council approval. The plans are yours.
Best if you already have a builder, or want to tender the job and compare real quotes.
Path three
Build Only
Bring us a documented set from another designer or architect. We price it from the drawings and construct it.
Best if you already have approved plans and want a licensed builder to take them to site.
Design meets construction.
Most projects split design and construction into separate worlds. Designers hand over drawings, step away, and the builder is left to interpret the intent. That gap creates confusion, delays, and details that don't translate well on site.
We work differently. Our designers and construction team operate together from day one, bringing decades of combined experience into a single, integrated process. Concepts aren't developed in isolation; they're tested early for cost-effectiveness, structural efficiency and buildability, so you don't waste time exploring ideas that can't be built well or affordably.
Because the same team will build from the details, the documentation is clearer, more practical, and written for how the work will actually happen on site. There's no handover, no disconnect, and no gap in responsibility. Just one team with a shared goal, and one point of contact for you.
It's a smarter way to build, and it underpins every project we deliver.
Meet the studio →
Flexibility you control
Design & Build Process
You're free to begin or end at any of our stages — there's no obligation to move through the entire process. Whether you come to us just for construction, just need help getting approvals, or want support from concept design through to construction, you can engage us at whatever point suits your project and step away whenever you choose.
- Stage 01
Concept Design
Including a feasibility cost estimate.
Stage 1 is intentionally flexible, allowing the process to adapt to the needs of each client. Concept design can be as simple as a drafting exercise to confirm your layout, or a more exploratory phase where we test ideas and investigate multiple options. Our designers all hold master's degrees in architecture and bring decades of local experience, ensuring every concept balances beauty, practicality, and buildability. Working with a design-and-construct builder means you stay in control throughout the process, while benefiting from early cost guidance. The inclusion of a construction estimate prepared by an experienced local builder is what sets us apart — from the very first sketch, we're thinking through the cost implications of every decision. For a summary of the key considerations we address from day one, you can view our Concept Design Checklist Guide here:
Concept design checklist →Consultation
We begin with a detailed questionnaire and conversation to ensure we fully understand your objectives, lifestyle needs, and any early ideas.
Site visit
We visit your property to measure existing conditions and assess orientation, access, views, and any site-specific opportunities or constraints.
Survey
We arrange a professional survey of your site (or you can provide one if already completed). This forms the foundation for accurate, responsive design.
Drafting / design
If you have sketches, we draw them up professionally and provide feedback on aspects you may not have considered. Alternatively, if you're not sure where to start, you can simply describe your needs and we'll develop one or more design options. Changes are welcomed — this stage is iterative by design.
Drawings and 3D views
We prepare plans, elevations, and 3D views of the home and site so you can clearly visualise the design and understand how it sits within the landscape.
Construction estimate
Before moving to the next stage, we provide a full construction estimate so you can be confident your design aligns with your budget. No surprises at the end of the process.
- Stage 02
Planning Approval
Stage 2 focuses on securing formal Planning Approval from Council, ensuring your design meets all relevant planning rules and can be approved without unnecessary delays. Because we work with these Councils every day, we know what they look for and how to avoid unnecessary delays. If anything in the design raises potential concerns, we seek early feedback so issues can be resolved before lodgement. This stage is especially important for complex sites (such as sloping blocks, bush-fire zones, heritage overlays, septic systems, stormwater constraints, native vegetation overlays, and narrow blocks) where careful planning can save significant time and cost. For simple interior renovations with no external works, Planning Approval may not be required.
Planning drawing set
We prepare a complete set of Planning drawings including Site Plan, Civil / Stormwater Plan, Floor Plan and Elevations. Again, we allow for any extra tweaks you might require before lodgement.
Wastewater investigation / design
For sites without a mains sewer connection, we arrange the required wastewater assessment and design to ensure compliance with Council and environmental standards.
Planning application
We lodge the application on your behalf and manage all correspondence with Council, ensuring any questions are addressed promptly so the assessment progresses smoothly. We also advise on typical approval timeframes for each Council and outline any likely referrals (such as to the Country Fire Service, Native Vegetation Council, or Heritage Assessor) so you know what to expect during the process.
Optional extras
Landscape plan
This option ensures that interior and exterior spaces are integrated as one design. Rather than treating the landscaping as an afterthought, it is considered as an essential part of a holistic design, softening the boundary between outdoors and indoors.
Marketing renders
High-quality renders can be produced for sales, funding, or simply to help you visualise the final design with greater clarity.
- Stage 03
Building Approval
Building Rules Consent, or BRC.
Stage 3 takes your design to the level of technical detail required for certification. Structural engineering, timber framing design, and energy-efficiency compliance are all confirmed, and we refine any remaining details so the home feels tailored to your needs. Once the construction drawings are complete, we provide a full, transparent quote to build. For those customers looking to build with Lumea, we also finalise all fittings and finishes, with complete freedom to choose your preferred suppliers.
Soil test
Usually kicked off early to minimise delays, the soil test is required by the structural engineer to ensure the appropriate level of steel for footings.
Timber framing design
Design of the timber framing to comply with the timber framing code. This includes any timber floors / decks, timber framed walls, roofs, bracing and tie-down requirements.
Structural engineering
Design of the foundation and any steel columns and beams and additional bracing.
Civil engineering
Sometimes Council require civil engineering during the planning approval stage. Otherwise it is undertaken in Stage 3 to ensure retaining walls and stormwater are appropriately considered.
Energy assessment report
This is when minimum requirements for insulation and window glazing are determined.
Complete set of architectural drawings
A full set of documents to achieve Building Approval is included. This includes a Site Plan, Demolition Plan (if relevant), Detailed Floor Plans, Roof Plan, Elevations, Window Elevations and Wet Area Details.
Additional client input
Throughout Stage 3 additional input from the client is welcomed as finer grain details are resolved.
Lodgement with private certifier
Once you're happy with the complete set of construction documents we will issue those for final certification for compliance with the Building Code.
Selections
For those proceeding to build with Lumea we will provide a schedule for all interior fixtures and finishes. Clients are free to choose from any available suppliers.
Construction quote
At the completion of Stage 3, prior to signing a construction contract, we will provide you with a complete, itemised quote for construction.
Optional extras
Comprehensive interior design package
Includes multiple options, joinery design and physical sample boards.
- Stage 04
Construction
Stage 4 is where your design becomes a built reality. By the time construction begins, every major detail has already been resolved, allowing the build to progress smoothly and with minimal surprises. Throughout this stage, our focus is communication, quality, and craftsmanship. You'll have a dedicated site supervisor who provides regular updates, photos, and walkthroughs at key milestones, ensuring you always know what's happening on site. We actively monitor workmanship and check details against the approved drawings so nothing is left to chance. Any unexpected issues are raised early with clear options, but our thorough design process means variations are rare. From first footing to final clean, our trusted trades and suppliers work together to deliver a home that feels solid, refined, and thoughtfully finished.
Below is a typical process for a new house or extension. The process for a renovation is generally much simpler.
Final construction quote & review
At the end of Stage 3 you receive a final, itemised construction quote aligned with the certified drawings and your selections. This is your opportunity to review the scope and cost one last time and make any final adjustments before signing the contract.
Contract signing
Once you're satisfied with the scope, price, and timeline, we proceed with signing the construction contract. This formalises the build and allows us to schedule trades, order materials, and commence works on site.
Site establishment & footings
The site is prepared, temporary fencing installed, and footings poured. This marks the official start of your build.
Structural works
Framing, roofing, and external walls are constructed. You'll see your home take shape quickly during this phase. Clients are taken for a walk-through upon completion of framing.
Roofing and external cladding
Roof sheeting and external cladding are installed, completing the building envelope.
Lock-up
Windows and external doors are fitted so the building can be secured, allowing internal works to progress efficiently.
First-fix services
Electrical, plumbing, air-conditioning ducting, and other services are installed within the walls and ceilings before linings go on.
Internal fit-out
Plasterboard, cabinetry, tiling, flooring, and internal joinery are completed. This is where the interior character of your home begins to emerge.
External works
Rendering, driveways, decks, and landscaping (if included) are completed, tying the home into the site.
Second fix & detailing
Fixtures, appliances, tapware, lighting, and final finishes are installed. We conduct detailed quality checks to ensure everything meets our standards — and yours.
Practical completion & handover
Once the home is complete, we walk through with you to confirm every detail. You receive your keys and all warranties and certificates. Your new home is ready to enjoy.
Not sure which path you need?
A short call is usually enough to tell you what's possible on your site.