Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between an architect and a designer?

In a word, qualifications. Architects spend about ten years earning a bachelor’s degree, then a master’s degree and require a minimum of 3,300 hours of work experience under an experienced registered Architect, before undertaking the Architectural Practitioners Examination. Many spend their lives perfecting their craft. Registered Architects are required to maintain Continuing Professional Development (CPD), Professional Indemnity cover, and have a continuing Duty of Care, held legally responsible for their work. Architects have a Code of Professional Conduct within the Architects Act governed by the Architects Registration Board in every State & Territory.

What should I look for in an architect?

Many people approach architects based on their particular aesthetic and their portfolio of work. Let’s face it, this is one of the most significant investments, not just the financial investment and extensive timeframe involved but also the emotional investment. You need to not only trust your architect’s design skills and their passion for the home they’re creating for your family, but also their professionalism and track record with past projects and their clients. It’s also critical to look for an architect with a track record of built work and good references from all recent clients as there may be many skeletons hiding behind their portfolio of work.

What due diligence should I do before contacting an architect?

Check your architect is registered in your state or territory and do the same for your builders through the local Office of Fair Trading or licensing authority. CplusC is registered architects, which means we meet accepted codes of conduct and have appropriate professional indemnity insurance in place. We are also licensed builders.

How is CplusC different to other architects?

We are a rare breed in our industry: architects who are also builders. This unique combination of skills and expertise will help you achieve the home you dream of. If we choose to work with you, it means we not only believe in your vision for your home, but, that most critically, that it is feasible to deliver within your time, budget, scope, and quality expectations. We have a very strong reputation for the work we produce and always ensure a project is feasible, not just an opportunity to a win a project that will never see the light of day. We will not waste our time or your money pursuing unfeasible expectations. Our focus on design, detailed documentation, delivering buildability and managing budget constraints at the start of the design process helps the construction phase run without surprises. For an at-a-glance overview of how we are different to a traditional architect, see our comparison table.

What do you stand for?

We stand for trust and for making a difference in everything we do as a team, our projects, and our clients. As one of a handful of Australian architectural firms to achieve certification as a B-Corp, we’ve proven that ethics, sustainable practices, the wellbeing of our team, diversity, and sound financial management and operations is front and centre in our business, and that we value everyone who deals with us, from our clients to our team and our community. More broadly, we value the environment and are leaders in regenerative design.

What do you bring to my project?

We have 20+ years of experience as architects AND builders, and we’ll never get tired of making beautiful homes for our clients. We’re still genuinely consumed by the process of making. Our principal, Clinton Cole, has the rare gift of visualising emotional response to space before it physically exists. As a qualified architect AND master builder, he has both the theoretical and practical expertise to bring these ideas to life, backed by a multidisciplinary team of people who are as passionate about the result as he is. Over the years, we’ve pushed the boundaries in sustainable design with exciting homes that our clients adore. The evidence is in our projects, awards, and the rave reviews of our clients.

I care about sustainability – you’re not a greenwasher, are you?

Far from it. For 20+ years, we’ve been working to expand the possibilities in regenerative design. We’ve accrued extraordinary expertise in all things sustainable and regenerative, including natural pools, heat pumps, permaculture, low VOC materials, low embodied energy materials, natural cooling and ventilation, productive gardens and closed loop irrigation systems, solar power systems, battery systems, evacuated glass tube solar hot water systems, hydronic heating, and cooling systems, passive house principles, HRV systems, hydroponics, aquaponics (edible fish) and even chicken coops and egg harvesting … the list goes on! And when new technologies or practices come on board, we’re passionate about testing them and realising their potential in the homes we build.

I care deeply about quality – what’s your approach to achieving it?

It’s easier for us to control quality than many other architectural firms because we manage your project from conception to the final handover of your home. Our team have a very strong working relationship with subcontractors, and we trust them implicitly to achieve the best quality craftsmanship for us and for you. We leave nothing to chance though. At every stage, we focus on every detail and manage every issue so we can deliver you a home that will be a legacy for your family – one that reflects who you are and what you represent.

Are CplusC both registered architects and licenced builders?

Yes, some of our construction team members have degrees in architecture and some of our project management teams are qualified tradespeople. Our director, Clinton Cole, is both a registered architect and a licensed builder. He spent the first decade of his career building CplusC projects during the day and designing them at night.

Are you a design-and-construct company?

Not in a traditional sense. Design-and-construct companies are almost exclusively run by builders and generally have no registered architects working for them. If you want a garage or a car showroom, a design-and-construct company may be the perfect fit. But if you want attention afforded to every detail of your home and a place you and your family will enjoy for decades, then you need to engage an architect-builder or an architect. There are also several very good design-and-build companies in Australia (building designers do not have a tertiary level architecture degree) and sometimes they may be better suited to a project depending on scope, scale, and budget.

Do you provide interior design?

Yes, we do! Our projects would not look or feel the way they do if our work stopped at build (or design). The success of the homes we deliver comes from visualising the complete project, from the structure as a whole right down to the interior finishes.

Can we engage CplusC for architectural services only?

Absolutely. Our architecture and construction services are performed under separate agreements, and you do not need to decide whether you want to work with CplusC on the construction stage of your project until after the Development Application is submitted or approved. Just like conventional architects, we can administer independent builders of your choice or from a suitable shortlist. There are obvious advantages in engaging CplusC for architectural services. Think buildability, cost management, experience dealing directly with tradespeople, expertise with detailing and decades of knowledge understanding issues that can occur after buildings are handed over to clients. All this lets us provide six-year post completion care for your peace of mind after you move in.

Why work with an architect as builder?

Quite simply, it’s an incredibly empowering way to work – for us and for you. With an architect who is also a qualified builder, you break free of siloed thinking about design and construction. You have a multidisciplinary team involved in your project from the very start. Every discipline has a seat at the table, bringing together architects, designers, project managers, skilled contractors, craftspeople, and manufacturers. As your new home takes shape, you can harness everyone’s expertise to come up with ideas, solve challenges and optimise timelines and cost.

Why is it better to have the same team design and build my home?

When you work with us, you never hand your project over to the builder, because we are the builder. With a single team accountable for realising your vision for your home, everyone’s aligned. You can trust that what’s proposed is achievable for the agreed cost and timeframe, and what’s built will be what you expected. With no handoffs, there’s less chance of communication breakdown between different professionals, or compromise to the result. By contrast, conventional tripartite architect-builder-client relationships can make it hard to decide where accountability lies when inevitable building challenges arise.

Can your team build my home faster?

Without any shadow of a doubt CplusC can deliver your project faster than a conventional procurement model with separate architect and builders. Communication is more efficient, for starters. We can quickly resolve construction issues through a quick phone call between team members. This means we can fast-track our processes to get you in your home sooner.

Another architect says they can help manage my build for a fee. How is this different to what you offer?

Few conventional architects have the required expertise to project manage your job and in residential construction, the builder is contractually defined as the project manager, not the architect. Our construction team has 24/7 onsite access to our cloud-based Building Modelling Information system, so they are privy to the same information as everyone in our office. Experts are just a phone call away when they need to clarify details or resolve challenges. To provide the same level of involvement your architect would have to charge you a large sum, usually at their hourly rate, and in the case of residential construction projects, they would be acting only as the Administrator of your project, not the Project Manager, as they have limited contractual control in residential building contracts other than reviewing and confirming payment claims from the builder. With CplusC, this deep project management engagement is the normal way we do things and is built into the costings we provide for your project.

My builder says they can work to your specifications. How is this different to what you offer?

All good builders work to architectural specifications. We do the same. However, as builders who are also architects, the specifications are just part of the picture for us. We take ownership of everything about your project, from the concept to the quality of the final result, and we’re accountable for making sure your new home delights you in every way. We know your dream and the intricacies of the design you’ve set your heart on. And because we’re all one team, we’re always ready to put our heads together whenever extra collaboration is needed to get you there.

Another architect told me that being the builder as well as the architect is a conflict of interest. Is this true?

Not at all and arguably the opposite can be true where conventional architects often use the same builder many times over year in year out as its easier and more efficient for them to repeatedly work with the same third-party builder. In fact, being both the architect and the builder is a real asset! Any issues onsite can be quickly and seamlessly resolved, and you don’t need to go through the hassle of consulting multiple companies to create your dream home. There is also complete transparency about any and all issues given there is no third party to blame if things don’t go as planned.

Why do most architects hand over at the design/approvals stage?

Many architects prefer to specialise in concept and design. Others are reluctant to take on the risk and complexity of managing projects to completion and are not licensed or insured to perform construction works. We’re different. We want to be directly involved in building our work. We delight in bringing our ideas to life onsite and crafting every detail of your home. We’ve built the skills to see it through. And because we make trust and experience a priority in our business, we believe the risk is exaggerated.

If it’s such a great model, why aren’t there more architect-builders?

One reason is that architectural education today emphasises theory and software over practical learning. Managing a program of workshops and site visits requires unique expertise and much more floor space than having 500 students sitting at computers. Another reason is that many architects prefer to stay on the design side because they have so little exposure to the act of building itself.

How does it work at CplusC?

The way we do it, our principal, Clinton Cole, has oversight throughout your project in the dual role of project architect and construction manager. As a registered architect and licenced builder, he oversees concept, planning, structural systems, assembly concepts and construction logistics from start to finish. It really is the best of both worlds.

How does our process differ from the traditional architectural model?

We’re leaders in regenerative design, so we think deeply about how to make your project sustainable right from the start. To kick off the design stage, we start with key questions about materials: What are we making the architecture from? Where do the materials come from? What tools are used to make them? How can they be used and what tools or skills are needed? How does the material and the assembly define the space? What is the longevity of the material in the assembly proposed? We also involve our construction team so they can head off any issues and uncertainties before the design even gets off the ground. This helps remove uncertainties and cost variation during construction.

Will you design for sustainability?

Every architect today says they will design for sustainability, which usually means including a few standard features, such as rainwater tanks or solar panels. The difference is that we are leaders in regenerative design, always pushing the envelope of what sustainability means for the homes we build. This means we use sustainability strategies that work together so your home is environmentally aware, giving back to you and future generations. We use advanced tools to deliver these strategies – for example, our own building modelling simulations, including daylight and solar studies, life cycle analysis of your home’s embodied energy and thermal modelling.

Will I be involved?

Yes. Every step of the way. We are deeply consultative. We want you to LOVE your new home. Our practice size and capability allow you get personalised and consistent service from our principal, Clinton Cole, and the project architects responsible for your home.

Will I be able to visualise what my home will look like?

We will do everything to help you see what we see. We use Building Information Modelling, virtual reality simulations, photomontages and detailed 3-D flythroughs to give you a clear picture. They’re so immersive, you’ll feel like you’ve walked through your home before it’s built. You can see examples of these here.

Will your design meet my budget and timeline?

We integrate the cost structure at design stage to ensure budgets are realistic. Because we are a unified team of architects and builders, we ask our builders to weigh in with ideas and confirm that designs are achievable within budget and timeframes.

Will you manage the approval process?

Yes, we will. And you’ll be happy to know that in 20+ years we’ve been operating we have gained council approval for every one of our boundary-pushing homes with an innovative process that includes detailed DA submission packages and neighbour communication packages to help win over your neighbours.

Who manages the approvals?

Our architectural team will identify the best approval pathway and coordinate external consultants to manage your application.

What do you supply?

We’ll produce full documentation to support any approvals that are needed. We prepare all documentation in full Building Information Modelling software with 3-D flythroughs and/or walkthroughs and professional rendering to clearly communicate design intent.

What if the neighbours take issue with my project?

We offer neighbour communication packages to help you get off to a good start. Your neighbours are invited to the CplusC office to view the proposed development virtually via modelling and flythroughs that help them visualise what you’re planning. They can ask questions and voice any concerns. We’ve found this goes a long way to winning trust and building confidence in your neighbours and local community.

What if the authorities take issue with my project?

Don’t worry. Our team of architectural and construction experts will collaborate to resolve any speed bumps quickly. Did we mention that we have a 100% success rate in getting projects approved?

Why is it beneficial to skip the tendering process?

It’s faster, and in many ways less stressful. In the traditional model, multiple builders compete for your business by providing cost estimates to build your home. This takes time, as they need to prepare accurate costings. You then need to compare these costings and select the builder you want to work with. When CplusC builds your home for you, there’s no need to wait for tenders or immerse yourself in the line-by-line detail of competing costings so you can make a wise choice. We’ve already factored your budget into the design stage and used a quantity surveyor to get accurate costings of your chosen design. So once your project is approved by the authorities, you can often go straight to build stages.

Can I sign a fixed price contract with CplusC?

We don’t offer fixed price contracts. They’re used mostly by large volume builders where clients buy off the plan, or in predictable commercial projects where the potential markets risks, and weather impact risks are very low. They’re almost never used in custom-designed architectural projects. This is because there are so many unknowns at the outset, so the builder’s margin and contingency would be so large the project would be unworkable. If your lender or solicitor is asking for a ’fixed price’ contract, they are always referring to a ‘lump sum contract.’ CplusC can offer Lump Sum contracts depending on the project risk profile, size, location, and prevailing market conditions at the time the construction is being contemplated.

How do you cost projects?

As an architecture and construction firm we use our detailed and up-to-date knowledge of contemporary building costs to prepare a realistic budget estimate and competitive fee proposal. We take all reasonable steps to prepare a proposal that will deliver you a built outcome that meets your lifestyle and budget expectations.

How do you figure out the construction estimate?

Before you go ahead, we do a preliminary construction estimate. It typically includes 40-50 pages of detailed construction cost estimates obtained from a qualified quantity surveyor. Built from Building Information Modelling software documentation and deep expertise in construction assembly and logistics, the cost estimates are as reliable and accurate as they can be without exception.

The other architects I spoke to have estimated significantly lower total project costs. Why is your estimate more expensive?

Conventional architectural fees are often determined as a percentage of the project cost. Traditional architects don’t have the expertise to estimate construction costs at any stage of the project and rely on other professionals, such as quantity surveyors and builders, to cost their design proposals. This is why they may describe their estimates as “opinion of probable costs” or refer to “current square metre rates”.

What about percentage-based fees?

Percentage-based fee proposals can look deceptively low. With a percentage fee, the final fee may not be known until the project is complete. Arguably there’s an inherent disincentive to deliver cost-effective designs on a percentage fee basis.

I like your design. But another architect told me this project would cost half what you’ve said. Why is that?

They’re probably not seeing the full picture. Because we take care of both the design and build process, we have visibility of the entire process and timeline so we can estimate costs accurately. Our team of professionals is actively working on numerous projects and has deep and recent construction experience, giving us intimate knowledge of the current planning environment and what it costs to complete a project. We’ve learned what’s realistic and what’s not. We stand by our cost estimates.

Do we have to use CplusC to build?

As builders who are also architects, we deliver construction in a way that most other builders can’t, but we remain objective and open to work with your selected third-party builder. If you choose CplusC as your builders you have the guarantee that you are dealing with a team of registered architects, licenced builders and highly qualified quantity surveyors and project managers. Because we are all that in one team, we have intimate knowledge of the requirements to deliver the best outcomes at each stage of the process. As we are in control of the process from start to finish, we can also control the quality of the output and ensure our designs are realised from the outset.

How do you work onsite?

Our site team has 24/7 onsite access to all construction documentation via cloud-based Building Information Modelling software. They’re trained in its use, allowing all correspondence in 3-D with limited traditional paper documentation packages required onsite. We’ve found that the comprehensiveness of this documentation reduces the need to involve the project architect during construction, keeping your project on track.

What about variations?

Variations are a feature of almost all construction contracts. They have to be. So many things can happen onsite that are beyond CplusC’s control. For example, freak weather events, changes in client instructions, latent problems that even careful inspections and preparation could not foresee, industrial action – even a global pandemic. In our experience, the original contract sum will almost always vary during construction – usually upwards. Let’s be clear: a contingency to the contract estimate budget is essential.

Another builder offered a contract with no variations – why don’t you?

When builders accept all risks without variations, you can expect a higher price. Basically, you’re paying for variations anyway – the builder has simply factored a percentage risk profile for the project ahead of time. We find that a more realistic and reasonable way to perform the work is to simply talk to you when something changes and give you the opportunity to agree to variations as needed or alternatively, to modify the scope of specification to reduce the impact. A good contract will provide a provisional allowance and specific rates for these unknowns.

How do you minimise variations?

Opening up sub-surface or existing structures can pop the top on a very wriggly cans of worms. We take our duty of care seriously. Before doing anything, we investigate carefully and warn you of the potential risks of latent conditions when we enter into a contract with you. If something turns out to be worse than anyone could have expected, we combine our architectural and construction expertise to mitigate cost impacts.

How does being architects AND builders help you reduce the impact of variations?

Let’s use an example. During demolition and structural stabilisation of a circa 1910 freestanding Victorian terrace in Annandale, the existing structure started to fall down around our site team. We had carefully inspected the building before starting work. But when we removed a floorboard, the skirting fell away. When we removed the skirting board the render and architraves gave way and when removing the render, the brickwork began to collapse! It seemed the terrace had been built by a turn-of-the-century DIYer. We could not have anticipated pre-existing conditions would be so bad. As builders, we determined the cost impact and delays. As architects, we worked with the client to re-design the plans to mitigate these with changes to floor area, modify the specifications, and reduce some of the landscaping. With a standard client-architect-builder contract, this would have caused a 35% cost blow-out. Acting as both architect and builder, we were able to reduce the impact to a less than ideal yet far more affordable 14% increase on the original contract sum. The scope of work was completed in full with the exception of some landscaping elements. Quality expectations were not compromised. In our two decades of experience, examples like this are fortunately very rare.

What happens if I have a problem after build is completed?

Unlike conventional architects, if we also build your project, we provide a minimum six-year warranty on our construction work and our architectural services after completion. That’s longer than most new car warranties! So, if you need us, we are here for the long haul.

How does your aftercare program reduce problems in future?

It's not just about fixing problems when they happen – it’s about doing everything we can ahead of time to make sure you don’t need our help. Because we stand by our work for such a long period, everything we specify is designed to last and perform without problems. We know what works, what fails, what leaks, what stands the test of time, what degrades, what finishes age gracefully and how to best manage and maintain buildings. So, once you move in, you can simply relax and enjoy your home.