Answers to what we get asked most about building design, permits, fees and how we work. If you can’t find what you’re after here, get in touch and we’ll help directly.
Getting started
No. NM Architecture is a building design practice. Our founder is a Registered Building Designer (Building Design, Architectural), DP-AD 44189. In Victoria, building designers and architects both produce plans and specifications for building projects; the differences are the title, the law, the regulator and the education pathway. Read our full guide →
Design and documentation
Six stages: investigation, building design, planning permit, construction documentation, and project management in two parts (tendering and pre-contract, then contract administration through to completion). See the full breakdown on our NMA Design Process page.
Yes. We design commercial, retail and hospitality fit-outs, and residential interiors. For homes we offer two packages: the Standard Package covers 2D floor plans and elevations for key wet areas (kitchens, bathrooms, ensuites, laundries) with limited schedules; the Custom Package adds full item schedules and selection of colours, fixtures, fittings and finishes. Interior design can be part of your building design package or a standalone service.
Permits and approvals
Yes. We prepare and lodge the planning application, respond to council and manage it through to a decision. We also prepare the building permit documentation for your building surveyor, and report and consent applications when a variation is needed.
Fees and engagement
It depends on project type, size, site complexity, and scope of service, so there isn’t a single fixed price we can quote generally. Fees are typically either a fixed, itemised price for the project or a percentage of the total construction cost for larger or more complex work. We’ll give you an accurate, tailored fee proposal once we understand your project, at no obligation.
We tailor the fee structure to the project. For most residential and smaller-scale projects, we provide a fixed, itemised fee agreed upfront, invoiced in staged progress payments tied to key project milestones. For larger or more complex projects, fees may instead be based on a percentage of the total construction cost, invoiced progressively as the project advances through each stage. Either way, you receive a clear, written fee proposal before any work begins.
Yes. We offer multiple package tiers, from an essential building design and documentation package through to more comprehensive options that also include supporting documentation, consultants, and interior design. If none of our standard packages fit your project, we’ll put together a bespoke package tailored specifically to your requirements and budget.
No. Specialist consultants (structural engineers, land surveyors, building surveyors, energy raters and similar) and statutory authority fees are quoted and engaged separately, though we coordinate them on your behalf as part of the design process.
Our staged payment structure means you’re never committed beyond the stage you’re currently in. You can choose not to proceed at the start of any payment stage, and you won’t be charged for work not yet started.
For builders and owner-builders
Construction and project management
Yes, we can help with that if it is included in your package. Project management covers tendering, contract administration and construction monitoring through to completion.
Yes, we can help with that if it is included in your package. We run the tender, compare builders’ quotes and help with the contract before construction starts. NM Architecture is a building design practice, not a builder.
Other
Yes. A first conversation about the property is free: send us the address and we will tell you what it may allow. For a detailed answer, our paid site investigation assessment and building envelope drawing show what you can build, and the fee can be deducted from the design fee if you go ahead with us.
Still have questions?
Get in touch and we’ll talk through your project directly.
Let's create something special
- 400+ projects designed
- 10+ years in practice, established 2016
- 45+ councils across Victoria
Live and Dream with Confidence.
GET IN TOUCH
Whether you're ready to start your project or need some advice, we’re here to help.