Build Blog 11
So this is the design we have currently opted to run with and working drawings are currently being done. We have had a couple of sessions on materials etc. so far for the house. Currently we are cladding the house in cedar, which everyone seems to recommend. Read more
Build Blog 10
It’s been a while since I’ve last added to this but we have spent the last few months in a holding pattern. Just prior to Xmas we did a round of pricing prior to getting working drawings done. Unfortunately the pricing came in 50% over budget. I asked a QS to look at cost saving options but realistically did not feel we would be able to get that design where we wanted the price to be. At this time I had also been working with a couple of clients who had gone through design & build companies with pretty attractive pricing. Read more
Build Blog 8
Timeframes. In the back of our minds we were working on being in the house by winter 2014, we have now been told Xmas 2014 would be a great result. Read more
Build Blog 7
The Finances. We are now waiting for the engineer to go over the plans and means we have a slight wait before anything else can progress. It’s probably timely to refer to the funding/finances. Read more
Build Blog 6
We have had another session with Jeremy going over the 2nd concept design and I think we have managed to lock down the design. Two rooms ended up being redesigned, our den and the main bedroom, overall though the house has stayed approximately the same size. Read more
Build Blog 5
Second house design has come in. This time it’s a single level design with the carport/garage attached to but not part of the house. My wife is a big fan but I’m struggling with it a bit. At this point it is in 2d plans and I cannot really envision it. Overall the layout does seem a big smoother. Floor size has stayed the same but house is probably simpler (hopefully cheaper ) and we can likely start with a carport and turn it into a garage if and when needed. Read more
Build Blog 4
Met up with some existing clients at the start of the week. They are a couple of architects and looking to buy a section and build on it as well. It’s always good to speak to people in a similar scenario, especially if they are within the industry. They are looking at doing a similar sized house to us, around 160sqm. They were estimating build costs around $2500-$3000 a sqm, which is similar to the quotes we are getting from builders. Read more
Build Blog 3
Final builders quote has come in and looking positive, we now have 2 builders who reckon they can build to our budget. We can now press on with the current design which is a great feeling. Next step is engaging an Engineer to look over the plans and work out steel and strength requirements. Once we have these the builders can then firm up their pricing and we will be in a good position to go ahead with the build. Read more
