Services – Architectural Design
I help clients navigate the entire design and building process, from early ideas through to construction.
For many homeowners this process can feel complex, unfamiliar, and at times overwhelming. If you are still deciding whether working with an architect is right for you, I have outlined what to consider here:
My role is to bring clarity and structure to that complexity. Drawing on professional experience, technical knowledge, and a clear understanding of council and regulatory requirements, I guide you through each step so decisions are informed, risks are managed, and the process feels achievable rather than daunting.
Below is an overview of the design stages and what my services include.
Stage 1 – Getting Started
If you’re ready to explore your project ideas, please reach out by phone or email to schedule an introductory conversation. During this initial call, I’ll review your property online and ask a few questions to clarify your goals and expectations. This first chat allows us to determine if we’re a good fit and provides a clear sense of the next steps.
This initial consultation is complimentary.
Stage 2 – Fee Proposal & Brief
After our introduction, I can begin crafting a custom fee proposal (quote) for your project. Since each project is unique—considering site requirements, planning regulations, and individual client needs—this involves thorough research and often a site visit. Together, we’ll establish a written brief that serves as our project foundation. This phase can be time-intensive but essential to ensure the project aligns with your vision.
As mentioned on my profile page, I believe that housing should be accessible to everyone.
Instead of charging a fee for this stage, I ask clients to donate to a youth homelessness charity. It ensures early conversations have purpose and value beyond the project itself.
Stage 3 – Concept Design
With the brief established and our contract signed, the architectural design phase begins. Here, your ideas start to take shape in the form of concept plans. Drawing from expertise and experience, I explore designs that are functional, visually engaging, and tailored to your requirements. Concept design is a collaborative process, where schematic designs are developed and refined with your input.
This service is covered under the fixed fee proposal.
Stage 4 – Budget Review
Once the concept design is established, it’s beneficial to engage a quantity surveyor to assess estimated construction costs. This review provides a clearer picture of the project construction budget and helps us make any adjustments early on.
This service is undertaken by an external consultant, exclusive to our contract.
Stage 5 – Town Planning
Many projects require Town Planning approval from your local council. This process involves preparing detailed plans and formally lodging all required documents.
With extensive experience navigating council regulations across various municipalities, I help make this process as efficient and hassle-free as possible. I aim to preemptively provide the information council is looking for in a clear and concise manner. This dramatically speeds up the process by giving them everything they need upfront.
Want to know more about Town Planning and the process? Follow the link for a detailed guide to Planning Permits.
This service is covered under the fixed fee proposal.
Stage 6 – Design Refinement & Interior Design
Design refinement continues throughout as the project increases in detail. A well-designed building achieves consistency across both exterior and interior spaces. Key factors such as material selection, layout, and lighting are carefully considered to express the design concept established during the concept phase.
This service is covered under the fixed fee proposal.
Stage 7 – Construction Plans
As the architectural design is refined, I also prepare the technical documentation needed for construction. I take pride in producing clear, concise, and accurate construction plans that facilitate approvals, assist the builder and prevent on-site confusion.
This service is covered under the fixed fee proposal.
Stage 8 (or earlier) – Builder Selection
Traditionally, builders were selected only once construction plans were finalised. However, I’ve found success in involving the builder earlier in the process, around Stage 6. Engaging a builder during the design phase allows them to provide valuable input, helping to guide decisions and align the project with budget goals, ultimately leading to a smoother transition to construction.
Builder selection, whether through tendering or direct negotiation, is a collaborative discussion, but the choice is ultimately yours. While contract price is important, it’s also essential to consider the builder’s experience, reputation for quality, and ability to meet project timelines. My role is to assist you in making this decision.
If required, this service is offered on an hourly basis, with estimated costs provided in the initial fee proposal.
Stage 9 – Building Permit
Once plans are ready and a builder selected, we apply for the building permit, allowing construction to begin. If you’re unfamiliar with building permits, you can read more about the process here: Building Permits.
This service is covered under the fixed fee proposal.
Stage 10 – Contract Administration
During construction, I can act as a neutral liaison between you and the builder. I oversee the building progress, certify payments, review and approve variations, address defects, and ultimately confirm when the building is complete and ready for occupancy (your move in day!!!).
If required, this service is provided on an hourly basis, with estimated costs included in the initial fee proposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do architect services cost?
Each project is unique, tailored to specific site requirements and planning regulations, necessitating individual quotes. For reference, my fees for residential projects typically range from 6% to 12% of the construction cost, depending on the project’s scale and complexity. This is only a guide, as I provide a fixed fee structure customized to your project’s needs, rather than basing fees on percentages. When a fixed fee isn’t applicable, such as for administration services during construction, I offer transparent hourly rates, clearly outlined with estimates before engagement.
Follow the link for a more in depth look at Architect Costs & Fees
Where do we have meetings?
I’m based in Spotswood in Melbourne’s inner west, and wherever possible I prefer to meet at your home. Being on site helps me understand how you live, how the house works, and where there may be opportunities for improvement. That understanding directly informs the design process.
I also offer online meetings for flexibility, particularly for early conversations or follow-ups. I’m conscious that many clients are balancing work, family, and other commitments, so meetings outside standard hours are often possible. These are usually held online, though site visits can still be arranged where needed.
What areas do you service?
A lot of my work is within Melbourne’s inner west and inner north, where I have strong local knowledge and ongoing project experience.
This includes council areas such as Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Moonee Valley, the City of Melbourne, and Merri-bek.
I’m regularly working on residential renovations, extensions, and new homes across suburbs including Spotswood, Williamstown, Newport, Yarraville, Seddon, Footscray, Kensington, North Melbourne, Moonee Ponds, and Pascoe Vale.
I also work with homeowners across greater Melbourne and regional Victoria who are seeking a considered, sustainable approach to residential design.
Want to know more about MOA.studio?
MOA.studio is run by me, Matthew Oczkowski, a registered architect in Victoria (ARBV 17816). I have spent over fifteen years working in residential architecture, designing new homes, renovations and extensions that are carefully planned and grounded in practical construction.
My work is shaped by a belief that housing should be durable, comfortable and thoughtfully resolved. Too often homes are delivered quickly, with limited attention to long term performance or how people actually live day to day.
I focus on clear planning, practical detailing and environmental responsibility from the outset. These principles are not add-ons. They guide every stage of the design process.
Learn more about my background and the values shaping my work.
View renovations, extensions and new homes completed for clients.
How I design homes that perform better and use less energy.
Planning a Project?
If you are planning a new home, renovation or extension and want a clear, considered approach to design, I would be happy to discuss your project.
An initial conversation is complimentary and helps us determine if we are a good fit for one another.
I look forward to hearing about what you’re considering.