A Better Design

The office of A Better Design has been servicing clients since 1996.

Our clients will discover that we provide value for money service. Our best form of advertising is the referrals generated by clients which are happy to pass on details of our business to friends & family.

Our services consist of mainly residential developments ranging from extensions, new homes & unit developments. We have also provided services to the commercial market consisting of offices, factories and retail fit-outs. 

As the principle Building designer (Archie Marmarou) I have been working since 1982 with Drafting services & Building companies up until the start of my own practice. During the past 27 years I have been familiar with the changes of Building codes as far back as Uniform Building regulations, Victorian Building Regulation and familiar with current BCA. Building Code of Australia.

Same as for planning codes from Vic Code to current Res Code.

Our offices are situated centrally in the eastern suburbs Within the municipality of Whitehorse. Adjacent Council's are Manningham, Maroondah & Boroondara. We have Dealt with Councils In Port Phillip and find that a clear understanding of ResCode and local policy is the key to ensuring a successful outcome and to maximise the potential of any property. We have over the years designed homes in NSW & QLD.

Generally we are a design office that is not pigeon holed in a certain style of philosophy. Every new project and client presents its challenges, we aim to fit the clients needs and exceed their expectations.

Generally we invite potential clients to contact our office and briefly discuss the scope of works intended. We may need to research any Planning controls and then we can provide a cost estimate on fees associated with project.

Once a new client appreciates the extent of services provided and determines they wish to commission our office we generally make an appointment to visit the site.

The initial drawing produced comes in a form of Sketch design. This document enables the client to view & assess the proposal. The design produced will meet the initial design criteria. This drawing will illustrate the aesthetic appeal & ensure the amenity sort after has been achieved.

The design in some occasions has a number of options which a client may choose from.

The drawing usually is forwarded to builders to verify the costs for construction. Sometimes once all the above has been considered, design changes / adjustments may be requested and provided at an hourly rate.  

Working Drawings are then produced which is what is submitted for Building permit.

Most projects requires a site investigation & measure. We are able to take levels on site to establish slope & topography of site. When levels to Australian Height Datum (AHD, levels above sea level) is required by council a Licenced Land Surveyor generally is required.

Services that A Better Design can organise:

• Land Surveyor
• Soil Engineer
• Structural Engineer
• Energy Rater
• Landscape Architect
• Town Planner
• Building surveyors