No two projects follow the exact same path, but this gives you a feel for how things usually unfold. We keep Design and ECI moving together from the start, which makes the build phase smoother, smarter and far more enjoyable – and helps the project deliver what matters most to you.
1.Connect
Information
Site
Synergies
2.Define
Brief
Scope
Understand
3.Design
Concept
Development
Explain
4.Document
DA or CDC
Details
CC
5.Specify
Materials
Fixtures
Equipment
6.Contract
Investment
Timeline
Sign
7.Build
Demolition
Construction
Realisation
8.Enjoy!
Handover
Move
Manage
1.Connect
The first step is simply getting to know you and the project. The more you can share upfront – ideas, concerns, constraints – the better we can understand what you’re actually trying to achieve. We also look for alignment in how we communicate and make decisions, because the work is always smoother when everyone is heading in the same direction. A good fit early on makes the whole process more grounded and far less stressful later.
2.Define
This is where we dig a little deeper. We’ll talk through how you live, what matters day-to-day, and what you want the space to do for you. It’s part practical and part personal. From there, we sketch out a clear scope of works – sometimes a few versions – so you can see the different paths forward. The goal is to turn early conversations into something clear and tailored to you.
3.Design
Once the scope is locked in, we start shaping the design. This means testing ideas against the site, the budget, the timeline (the real-world stuff). We sketch, model and talk things through until the direction feels right. It’s collaborative and, honestly, one of the most enjoyable parts of the whole process. By the end of this phase, we’ll have a shared vision that looks good on paper and makes sense to build.
4.Document
Here’s where the design becomes something the approval authorities and the construction team can actually use. Depending on the project, we’ll prepare DA, CC or CDC documentation, plus the technical drawings needed for pricing and scheduling. Documentation isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential – the clearer it is, the fewer surprises later. This step is basically about giving the build a solid, unambiguous foundation.
5.Specify
Now we make the calls on what you’ll see and touch every day – the materials, fittings, finishes and the items that give the space its feel. It’s detailed work, and having the build team involved makes a big difference. They’ll help the design team prioritise where it’s worth making a statement or where a more discrete solution is most effective – the aim is to land selections that look great, make sense for the project and won’t cause headaches down the track.
6.Contract
This stage puts everything we’ve discussed into a formal agreement. It’s thorough, and sometimes the conversations get a bit tough, but they’re important. By this point, nothing should feel out of the blue – we’ve been shaping the scope, design and budget together from the start. A good contract phase sets the tone for a calm, predictable build, which is exactly what everyone wants once things get moving on site.
7.Build
Now the real-world work begins. Construction can move quickly and feel intense at moments, but we keep communication steady and transparent. You’ll have regular check-ins – weekly or fortnightly – so you always know where things stand. Our job is to run the site well, solve problems early and protect the design intent you’ve invested in. It’s hands-on and dynamic, and it’s where all the upfront thinking pays off.
8.Enjoy!
Handover is the moment everything comes together. Seeing clients walk into a finished space that finally feels like theirs never gets old. If anything needs tweaking, we handle it – no drama. Most of our work comes from repeat clients, so we never see this as a full stop; it’s more of a “see you next time.”
