Based on a recent presentation by Francis Lenny
1. The best design outcome depends on your audience
Customer is king - their requirements are the first priority, alongside the building code. It's important to document process to balance both user and legislative requirements.
2. Allow for tolerances - factor in a generous margin so that design meet requirements
Early communication is key. Ensure stakeholders are aware of minimum requirements and arrange a walk through at frame stage.
Margins allow flexibility to meet requirements even if there is slight variation once features are built/installed.
3. Invest time to collaborate - early on!
Devise a signage schedule in initial planning stages and seek a peer review.
Door schedule - recommend addition of all information such as location e.g. is it in accessible area or could it be disregarded if not? (may not be applicable - for instance, if in a secured zone).
4. Keep an eye out - more industry change is set for the near future
New provisions in coming years that will apply to residential and commercial design - watch this space!
Standards will continue to evolve including a building fit out focus and NCC updates are planned.
5. Common sense approach extends to certification - performance based outcomes help tailor make solutions for each project. For example:
A recent building change in use project on Brisbane’s north side – Francis worked with the BA&A certifiers, architect, owner and builder to ensure the class 5 building met legal requirements. It was necessary to ensure that the ramp and client access matched building users via a performance solution.
BA&A certifiers are lucky to work with professional builders such as O’Shea and Sons Builders to include safe and accessible features in residential homes such as the Lutzow project
