You’ve Got Development Approval (DA)
December 7, 2024
Are You Really Ready to Build?
The DA is approved, the Construction Certificate (CC) is submitted, the builder is appointed, and demolition is set to begin. Excitement is high, and the dream is finally becoming a reality. But here’s the million-dollar question:
Are you truly ready to build?
It’s a question we find ourselves asking more and more as plans cross our desks. DA approval signals a green light, but it doesn’t mean every detail is in place. And when it comes to building or renovating, the details matter most.
Beyond the Green Light
Having your DA approved is a big step forward, but it’s not the finish line—it’s the starting block. The reality is that many DA-approved plans lack the depth and precision needed to navigate the complexities of a build.
Have you thought about the functionality of your spaces? Is your joinery fully designed with your storage needs in mind? What about lighting—have you considered how it will transform your home? And then there’s the FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment)—a detailed schedule of materials and finishes that defines the personality of your home.
These aren’t minor details—they’re the difference between a home that works beautifully for your lifestyle and one that leaves you wishing you’d planned more thoroughly.
Planning: The Bridge Between Vision and Reality
A comprehensive set of plans, combined with 3D visualisations, is the unsung hero of any successful build. Why? Because they’re not just about aesthetics; they’re a tool that brings clarity and alignment.
Imagine seeing a fully realised interior or room before a single brick is laid. You understand how light will filter through the windows, where your storage solutions will fit seamlessly, and how your chosen finishes will come together. You can confidently answer questions, knowing every decision has been carefully considered.
But the value goes deeper than visualisation:
- Clarity for the Team: Builders, design team, and tradespeople are aligned on your vision. Miscommunication is minimised, and the process is smoother.
- Accurate Costs: A detailed design helps avoid the dreaded budget blowout. It may reveal that your dream home costs more than anticipated, but wouldn’t you rather know upfront than halfway through the build?
- Confidence in Decisions: There’s no second-guessing. You’ve seen the design, refined it, and know it’s exactly what you want.
The Risk of Rushing
Starting construction without this level of preparation can lead to challenges—unexpected variations, delays, and compromises that can leave you feeling deflated about what should be an exciting journey. A rushed process often results in spaces that don’t quite work or finishes that don’t feel right.
It’s like setting out on a road trip without a map. Sure, you’ll get somewhere, but it might not be where you wanted to go.
The Bottom Line
Building a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, so it deserves the time and care required to get it right. Detailed plans and thoughtful preparation aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential. They pave the way for a project that’s not only successful but also enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the excitement of creating your dream space.
So before you start digging foundations, take a moment to ask yourself:
Are you really ready to build?
Because when you are, the process becomes less about stress and more about seeing your vision come to life—exactly the way you dreamed it.
Design Life Better.
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