FAQ: Common Questions Homeowners Ask When Hiring an Architect
When planning a new home build, home addition, renovation or duplex, most homeowners have similar questions about cost, approvals and the design process. To make the journey clearer, we’ve put together a straightforward FAQ covering the key things you should know before engaging an architect or draftsman.
This guide answers the most common questions, including:
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- How much will it cost to build?
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- How long does the approval process take?
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- Do I need a DA or CDC?
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- What style should I choose?
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- Who organises consultants?
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- Can I change the design later?
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- How do I know my design will be approved?
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- What’s included in the drawings?
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- Do you help with builders?
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- What’s the first step?
These essentials will help you feel prepared, informed and confident before starting your project.
How much will it cost to build my new home?
The development process happens in two clear stages: design and approval.
Once your home plans and design concept are completed, we can provide realistic construction cost approximations based on current market rates in Sydney.
Your final building cost will depend on:
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- Size and complexity of the home or duplex
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- Site conditions
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- Choice of materials and finishes
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- Structural and engineering requirements
A well-planned design stage helps avoid cost blowouts later, especially for new home builds, home additions, and duplex developments.
For a more detailed cost breakdown see our article: How much does it cost to build my home in Sydney?
How long does the design and approval process take?
Approval time varies depending on whether your project qualifies for:
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- CDC (Complying Development Certificate) – usually 4–8 weeks
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- DA (Development Application) – usually 3–6 months, depending on the council
Working with a knowledgeable Sydney architect who already coordinates surveyors, engineers, bushfire consultants, stormwater designers and certifiers will make the process smoother, faster, and ultimately cheaper.
Good coordination prevents delays — the biggest hidden obstacle for homeowners.
Do I need a DA or CDC for my project?
This depends on your zoning, property constraints and what you want to build.
You can usually use CDC for faster approval if your site meets the NSW code requirements.
You will need a DA if your property is:
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- In a conservation or bushfire area
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- Flood-affected
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- Heritage listed
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- Not compliant with CDC standards
We assess this upfront so you choose the fastest and most cost-effective pathway.
Can you give us options for different styles?
Yes — we design across a range of architectural styles including Modern, Hampton, Georgian, Contemporary, and Coastal.
Your style will influence:
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- Material costs
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- Approval pathway
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- Construction complexity
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- Long-term value
Good design balances personality, budget and practicality.
Who handles consultants like engineers, surveyors or BASIX?
At ArchiRoom we coordinate all required consultants for you — surveyors, structural engineers, stormwater designers, arborists, BASIX assessors, bushfire consultants, and certifiers.
This prevents delays and ensures your development application or CDC package is complete and compliant.
Can I make changes after the design starts?
Yes — early-stage changes are normal and easy to incorporate.
However, once we reach the approval or construction documentation stage, some changes may:
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- Add extra time
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- Require re-drafting
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- Trigger re-approval (in DA cases)
We guide you through decisions so revisions stay minimal and cost-effective.
How do I know the design will get approved?
We carry out a detailed site review before starting:
Zoning · Setbacks · FSR · Height limits · Easements · Flooding · Bushfire · Heritage
Our goal as your architect is to design with the rules in mind so we avoid rejection and keep your approval smooth.
How much detail is included in the drawings?
Your architectural package typically includes:
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- Floor plans & home plans
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- Elevations & sections
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- Site plan
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- Shadow diagrams
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- BASIX
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- Stormwater coordination
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- Finishes and material notes (if needed)
You receive everything required for CDC/DA approval and builder pricing.
Our goal as your Sydney architect is to design with the rules in mind so we avoid rejection and keep your approval smooth.
Do you help with choosing a builder?
Yes — we can recommend trusted Sydney builders based on the type of project: home additions, duplexes, renovations, and new home builds.
We also review quotes to help you avoid under-priced or incomplete proposals.
What’s the first step?
Your project begins with:
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- A site assessment
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- Discussion of your goals and budget
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- Feasibility review (DA or CDC)
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- A detailed fee proposal
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- Concept design development
Once the concept is approved, the rest of the process becomes structured and predictable.
Ready to see what's possible on your site?
Tell us a few details about your project, and we’ll tell you how to get started.
