Question 1

What is the first step to starting a project with Yaz Design?

Accepted Answer

The first step is typically a feasibility or initial consultation where we review the property, planning controls and your project objectives. This allows us to understand the opportunities and constraints of the site before any design work begins.

During this stage we may review documents such as the planning certificate (Section 10.7), survey information and other relevant site details. From there, we can determine the appropriate design approach, approval pathway and the consultants that may be required.

Following this review, we prepare a detailed fee proposal outlining the scope of services and the next steps for progressing the project.

Question 2

What services does Yaz Design provide?

Accepted Answer

Yaz Design provides residential building design services including custom homes, duplex developments, secondary dwellings, and alterations and additions. Our core role is to develop the architectural design and documentation required to obtain planning approval and prepare your project for construction.

In addition to design services, we also offer structured service packages that can include consultant coordination, feasibility assessments, 3D visualisations, and approval management. These packages allow clients to access our established network of consultants and simplify what can often be a complex process.

Question 3

Can my property be developed as a duplex?

Accepted Answer

Many residential properties in NSW may be eligible for duplex development depending on zoning, lot size, frontage, and planning controls set by the local council or planning instruments.

At Yaz Design, we typically begin by reviewing the zoning, planning certificate, and site conditions to determine whether a duplex is permissible and what design opportunities exist for the site. This feasibility stage helps identify the development potential before design work begins.

Question 4

Can you help assess the development potential of my site?

Accepted Answer

Yes. One of the first steps we recommend is a feasibility or site assessment review. During this stage we examine the planning controls, zoning, site conditions and potential constraints that may influence the design and approval process.

This allows us to identify opportunities for the site and determine the most appropriate development approach before design work begins.

Question 5

What documents do I need before starting a design project?

Accepted Answer

Before commencing design work, it is generally helpful to obtain several key documents including a Planning Certificate (Section 10.7), a current survey of the property, a title deed, and any available site information.

These documents allow us to review the applicable planning controls, assess potential constraints, and determine the most suitable design and approval pathway for the project.

Question 6

Do I need council approval for my project?

Accepted Answer

Most residential projects require either Development Approval (DA) through your local council or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) issued by a private certifier. The appropriate pathway depends on the zoning, planning controls and specific conditions of your site.

Part of our role is to review the planning controls and determine which approval pathway is most suitable for your project.

Question 7

How long does the design and approval process take?

Accepted Answer

Timeframes vary depending on the scope of the project and the approval pathway required. The design and documentation stages with Yaz Design typically take several weeks as we develop the concept, coordinate consultants and prepare the required documentation.

Approval timeframes can vary depending on whether the project proceeds through a CDC or a Development Application with council, as well as the complexity of the site and project requirements.

Question 8

How much does it cost to design a house or duplex?

Accepted Answer

Design fees vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, the approval pathway required, and any site-specific constraints identified during the feasibility stage.

Factors such as bushfire requirements, flooding constraints, Sydney Water assets, and other planning overlays can influence both design scope and consultant requirements.

Once we review the site information and project brief, we provide a detailed fee proposal outlining the scope of work and associated costs.

Question 9

Do you work with builders and consultants?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Yaz Design works closely with a trusted network of experienced consultants including surveyors, structural engineers, town planners, arborists, stormwater engineers and private certifiers.

Clients who engage our consultant coordination packages gain access to this established network, allowing us to manage the required reports and technical documentation efficiently throughout the design and approval process.

Question 10

Do you manage approvals for clients?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For projects proceeding under the Complying Development pathway, we offer packages where Yaz Design coordinates the approval process and works directly with a private certifier to obtain the required approvals.

This approach allows clients to have a single point of contact while we manage the documentation and coordination required for the approval stage.

Question 11

Do you only work in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

Yaz Design is based in Sydney and primarily works on residential projects across Sydney and surrounding regions. However, we also undertake design work for projects in other parts of Australia depending on the project scope.

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