FAQ
Below are some of the common questions we receive about minor dwellings, duplex, infill housing and the building process.
If you are unsure what may be possible on your site, feel free to contact us to discuss.
01.
GENERAL
What is Living Collection?
Living Collection provides architect-designed homes delivered through selected regional builders across New Zealand. Projects include new homes, duplex, minor dwellings and infill housing, developed to suit different sites, budgets and council requirements.
Do you build the homes?
Projects are delivered through our regional builders, who manage the project from early planning through to construction. Design, documentation and construction are coordinated as one process.
Where do you operate?
We work with selected builders in different regions. Please see the Builders page to find the builder for your area.
02.
COST & FINANCIAL
How much does it cost to build?
Build cost depends on the site, location, design and construction requirements.
An estimate can usually be discussed once the site and project details are known.
Do you help with feasibility before building?
Yes. Projects normally begin with a discussion about the site and the type of development being considered, such as a minor dwelling, duplex or new home.
Can I build a minor dwelling to increase property value?
In many cases yes, but it depends on zoning, site layout, services and construction cost.
Each property needs to be reviewed before confirming what is possible.
03.
WHAT CAN BE BUILT
Can I build a granny flat on my property?
Minor dwellings may be possible on many residential sites, but this depends on zoning, site size, access, services and council rules. Each site needs to be checked before confirming what can be built.
Can I build a duplex on my site?
Duplex and infill housing may be possible depending on zoning, site size, access, services and planning rules.
A site review is normally required before confirming feasibility.
Do you help with council rules and consent?
Yes. The project team prepares the drawings and coordinates with consultants and council as part of the process once the project moves forward.
04.
PROCESS
How does the process work?
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Discuss site and options
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Choose or adapt a design
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Check feasibility and cost
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Prepare consent drawings
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Build with local builder
Can I use my own builder?
Projects are delivered through our regional builders.
05.
BUILDERS / PROJECT ROLES
Who will I deal with during the project?
You will deal with the project team as a whole, with the local builder handling the construction side and the design team preparing the drawings and documentation.
Who manages the project during construction?
The local builder manages the construction and project coordination, including site work, scheduling and subcontractors, while the design team remains involved to support the project through to completion.
06.
DESIGN & DOCUMENTATION
Can the design be customised?
Yes. Layout, size and configuration can be changed to suit the site, council rules and construction requirements.
Do you prepare drawings for consent(s)?
Yes. Once the design is confirmed, the drawings and documentation required for consent(s) are prepared as part of the process.
Do you organise engineers or other consultants?
Consultants such as engineers, surveyors or planners are arranged as needed for the project, with coordination handled as part of the overall process.
Design is a process of managing complexity. Our role is to find the simplicity on the other side.