Feasilibility Studies

Are preliminary studies undertaken in the very early stage of a project. They tend to be carried out where there is some uncertainty regarding the proposed development or for large and complex projects such as unit developments. Alternatively a feasibility study may be carried out to see if a design will work on a small or restrictive site. A site layout plan is prepared for the purpose of the analysis, but does not involve a building design.

Why conduct a Feasibility Study?

  • To obtain an indication of the likelihood of success of a project (This is particularly useful when developing for a profit)
  • To maximise the full potential of your project.
  • To obtain an indication of what can fit on a specific site, this is particularly useful for unit developments.

A feasibility study is also a useful step in the conceptual design process – The Design Concept Stage.

What is considered in a Feasibility Study?

The key groups of considerations are:
Client’s needs:

  • Ease of construction relative to the budget.
  • Number of dwellings, use of the site & future plans.

The site:

  • Site area, dimensions and shape.
  • Easements & assets.
  • Covenants & building envelopes.
  • The rise & fall of the natural ground level.
  • Significant views & vistas.
  • Existing trees & vegetation.
  • Surrounding buildings; their setbacks and features.

Council requirements:

  • Which council residential zone the site falls under and any overlays affecting the site.
  • Required ResCode setbacks from the site’s title boundaries.
  • Overall height requirements under the schedule to the zone.
  • Neighbourhood character.
  • Site density restrictions.

Building permit requirements:

  • Build ability.
  • The building regulatory requirements – day light to windows, walls on boundary, fire ratings, solar access to private open space etc.

What is the Feasibility Study process?

  • Initially we need to discuss what is proposed for the site and prepare a preliminary brief. Key considerations are:
  • Single / double storey residence, number of units proposed.
  • Key features; a pool, tennis court, significant views, a three car garage etc.
  • We will research the site to determine what planning zone & overlays the site shares, neighbourhood character and any restrictions placed upon the site.
  • A copy of title is used to sketch the site’s boundaries, bearings & determine north orientation. On and offsite features such as trees, easements and existing structures are identified. Site access helps determine driveway/s and garage location/s. Boundary setbacks and regulatory building parameters help pave the way for workable building footprint/s and private open space/s.
  • Lastly we provide you with a schematic plan of the site showing:
  • The building foot print.
  • Potential unit yield &
  • Achievable building floor area.

These considerations help to paint a picture of what can be achieved on your site. This can then be compared to construction costs and the value of the final product helping to determine profitability of a project that can be made from a site.

How much do feasibility services cost?

The cost of our feasibility services vary greatly, depending on the site and its restrictions, the size of the development and the amount of detail required. We encourage you to contact us either via phone or email to obtain a quote.

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