CLIENT HANDBOOK

ABOUT FEATHER & LAWRY

We chase the sun, embrace space, welcome the breeze and we’re here to weave these into every thoughtful design we share with you.

At Feather & Lawry Design, we believe good design tells a story; one that is a reflection of identity, grounded in its environment and a legacy for generations.

Feather & Lawry Design is an award winning, multidisciplinary studio of architects and interior designers.

For over 30 years, we’ve been proudly crafting spaces across regional Queensland and beyond, shaping designs that breathe, flow, and feel like home.

OUR VALUES

At Feather & Lawry Design our core values shape how we approach every project:

We work in the increasingly complex and confusing construction industry. This handbook very simply outlines our process and services to help you understand the value we bring to your project.

Whether you are building a new home, undertaking a renovation, or developing a commercial space, our team is equipped to provide the professional expertise and guidance required throughout every stage.

  • We place our clients at the centre of each design, ensuring clear communication to support a smooth process and a result that reflects your vision.

  • We believe that excellence lies in the details.

    Every element of our work is considered and intentional.

  • Our studio thrives on collaboration, internally across our architecture and interior teams, and externally with our clients, consultants, and builders

  • We encourage a positive and inclusive studio culture, recognising that a strong and healthy team delivers the best results.

  • We strive for outstanding design and service through continuous improvement, critical review, and proven design methodologies.

  • We bring originality and design clarity to every brief, delivering unique outcomes informed by place, purpose and people

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

We believe that excellence lies in the details.

Every element of our work is considered and intentional.

CLIENT-FOCUSED

We place our clients at the centre of each design, ensuring clear communication to support a smooth process and a result that reflects your vision.

TEAMWORK

Our studio thrives on collaboration, internally across our architecture and interior teams, and externally with our clients, consultants, and builders

OUR PEOPLE

We encourage a positive and inclusive studio culture, recognising that a strong and healthy team delivers the best results.

EXCELLENCE

We strive for outstanding design and service through continuous improvement, critical review, and proven design methodologies.

CREATIVITY

We bring originality and design clarity to every brief, delivering unique outcomes informed by place, purpose and people

OUR PROCESS

At Feather & Lawry Design we believe great design is built on strong relationships and clear communication.

Our step-by-step process is designed to guide you through your project with confidence- from the first conversation to the final finishing touches.

Whether you're renovating, building new, or reimagining a space, we'll be with you every step of the way to make the journey smooth, collaborative, and enjoyable.

  • PROJECT INCEPTION

  • CONCEPT DESIGN

  • COUNCIL APPROVAL

  • DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

  • CONTRACT DOCUMENTATION

  • CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

  • THE ICING ON THE CAKE

OUR PROCESS - STEP 1

PROJECT INCEPTION

Where we get to know you

Any project begins with the pre-design phase, where we focus on understanding the site, your needs, and the broader context before any drawing begins.

This stage includes site visits, detailed measure-ups, and extensive photo documentation to accurately capture existing conditions. We work closely with you to develop a tailored brief that reflects your lifestyle, preferences, and aspirations both internally and externally.

Through thoughtful site analysis and research we consider the climate, consultants required, and council regulations to lay a strong, informed foundation for a design that is both practical and deeply personal.

OUR PROCESS - STEP 2

CONCEPT DESIGN

The big ideas

The Concept Design stage forms the creative foundation of a project, where ideas begin to take shape in response to the site, client brief, and environmental context. Concept Design is a collaborative process between the client, architecture and interior team. We develop preliminary sketches, test spatial ideas, and assess planning strategies to help define the strongest design direction. Initial ideas are then refined into a cohesive vision, focusing on key concepts establishing the site context, building form, layout and materiality.

Consultants are typically brought in after this stage, except when early input is essential. The outcome includes drawings, diagrams, 3D views, and mood boards that clearly communicate the design intent and style direction.

OUR PROCESS - STEP 3

COUNCIL APPROVAL

Ticking the boxes

Building Approvals (BA) are required for most projects to confirm that the design meets safety, structural, and construction standards. In some cases, a Development Application (DA) is also needed to ensure the proposal complies with local council planning requirements and considers the impact on neighbours and the broader community. Development Applications are commonly required for new builds, lot subdivisions, significant earthworks, or work involving heritage-listed properties or sites with special zoning.

At Feather & Lawry Design, we guide you through this process by preparing council-specific drawings and coordinating all necessary consultants. We manage lodgements, attend meetings, and respond to any additional requests to help streamline approvals and keep your project moving forward.

OUR PROCESS - STEP 4

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

The details

The Design Development stage is where the vision begins to take shape in detail. Building on the approved concept, we refine every aspect of the design from materials, finishes and joinery ensuring all elements work cohesively.

Our architecture and interior teams collaborate closely with a range of consultants to resolve structural, compliance and aesthetic considerations.

This phase is an iterative and collaborative process with regular client input to ensure the design reflects your needs and preferences. The result is a coordinated set of drawings and documents ready for client feedback before contract documentation begins.

OUR PROCESS - STEP 6

CONTRACT DOCUMENTATION

Putting it all on paper

The Contract Documentation stage is where every detail of the project is carefully finalised and documented to the highest standard. At the end of this phase, you’ll receive a comprehensive set of drawings and schedules that clearly guide your builder to ensure a smooth construction process with minimal errors.

Though this stage can take time, the attention to detail pays off in the quality and accuracy of the final build.

Both the architecture and interior design teams work closely to refine and resolve every element, creating a clear, cohesive, and build-ready package ready for pricing.

OUR PROCESS - STEP 6

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

From design to reality

As your project moves toward construction, we’re able to assemble a shortlist of suitable builders and compare their quotes so that you can have the confidence that they will deliver at the right price. Once a builder has been selected this phase marks the exciting transition from design to reality.

From here we act as a supportive link between you and the build team, facilitating communication, answering questions, and ensuring the project remains true to the design intent. We attend regular site meetings with you, the builder, and subcontractors to review progress, approve claims, and help manage any variations. Key milestones, such as electrical rough-ins and joinery reviews, invite your input to ensure every detail is just right. As construction nears completion, we conduct a thorough defects check to uphold quality and completeness, working closely with the builder to resolve any outstanding issues before handover.

OUR PROCESS - STEP 7

SELECTIONS & STYLING

The icing on the cake

Curation is the final step in the completion of your project, where we thoughtfully manage the selection of art, furniture, window treatments, and soft furnishings to finalise every detail and bring the concept to life. With a collaborative meeting, we expand our understanding of your lifestyle, aesthetic, and budget to plan ahead for lead times and priorities.

From there, we present a tailored concept with furniture plans and concept images to help you visualise how each piece fits into your home. Once selections are approved, we manage quoting, ordering, delivery and installation, offering a seamless, hassle-free experience. The result is a beautifully styled home that feels cohesive, personal, and uniquely yours to complete the project vison.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need an architect or an interior designer, or both?

We offer both disciplines in-house providing a collaborative service. Your project will receive the right combination of expertise based on its scale and requirements.

How much will it cost?

Fees vary based on scope and complexity. We provide clear, itemised proposals aligned to your goals and budget.

How long does the design and construction process take?

Project timelines vary depending on size, complexity, approvals, and construction availability. We provide realistic timelines at each stage and keep you informed throughout.

Can you work with my builder or trades?

Absolutely. We can either recommend trusted builders or work collaboratively with professionals you’ve already engaged.

Do you manage town planning and council approvals?

Yes. We coordinate the preparation, submission, and management of all required applications, including liaising with town planners and consultants.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will I need an engineer for my project, and if so, what type?

The type of engineer you need will depend on the complexity of your project. We will guide you through which engineers are essential for your project and coordinate their involvement on your behalf.

Can I make changes during the process?

Yes. We allow for feedback and revisions at key stages. Significant changes later in the process may impact timeframes and fees, and we’ll always advise you clearly.

Do you provide 3D visuals or walkthroughs?

We use 3D modelling software to help visualise your project. At key stages, we can present realistic perspectives, animations, or walkthroughs to enhance understanding.

Do you work on renovations and commercial projects?

Yes. Our portfolio includes new builds, renovations, and fit-outs across residential, commercial, educational and healthcare Sectors

SPECIALIST CONSULTANTS

Used as required

Town Planner

Navigates council planning requirements and helps secure Development Approval. They prepare reports and ensure the design aligns with local planning schemes.

Geotechnical Engineer

Provides advice for projects on challenging ground, steep sites, or areas affected by flooding. They help design safe, stable foundations.

Civil Engineer

Assists when major earthworks, retaining walls, or specialist structures like pools are involved.

Hydraulic Engineer

Designs plumbing, drainage, rainwater systems, and other water-related infrastructure to ensure everything works efficiently and safely.

Mechanical Engineer

Designs heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, particularly in larger or more complex residential or commercial projects.

Electrical Engineer

Provides electrical layouts and solutions where significant electrical upgrades or new systems are required.

Landscape Architect

Designs the exterior spaces, including plant selection and the layout of gardens, pools, decks, and other outdoor areas, ensuring they integrate seamlessly with the building.

Ecologist (Bushfire Consultant)

Assesses bushfire risk and prepares Bushfire Management Reports to ensure the safety of homes located within designated bushfire zones.

Heritage Consultant

Advises on projects involving heritage-listed sites, including buildings, trees, or other protected features, ensuring all work respects historical significance.

Thank you for choosing us for your project. We look forward to working with you.