Interesting week this week with a whole bunch of design questions arising as we delve further into the detail elements of the project. Finer elements of the cladding now being resolved as are several window details.

As my practice has developed we have refined the way in which we document buildings, particularly renovation projects. In short, we tend to draw less than we used to, and describe more by scope or written description that notes a desired outcome.

When you are dealing with and considerate of an existing structure, a lot of which is hidden at the time of design detailing, a lot of time and clients investment can be wasted drawing something, that just won’t work because you may have anticipated something that is hidden that was incorrect. Another inevitable outcome is that things won’t always be square and accurate. We have found it far more successful to ensure that the builder is aware of the outcome we are hoping to achieve, and that based on this, he or she makes a reasonable allowance in their costs to to cover such work.

We have one such consideration with a detail over the existing windows that we have been resolving. We have found that every window is at a slightly different height and a different setback from the brickwork face (which of course is not straight!). We have managed to resolve an outcome (after some heated discussions….) that recognises we are working with an imperfect base, but results in a neat consistent detail for the home.

The other important thing to remember in this process however is that, when you do know the exact condition, a drawing is the best way to present this to the builder. Keep it simple, and put it in writing. Limits confusion and ensures you get the result you were seeking.

Image above of one of the windows in question, which has been constructed incorrectly. Builder currently correcting to match our earlier instructions :)