How much does a building designer charge?

building designer fees in Sydney typically follow these structures:

Percentage-Based Fees:

• Residential projects: 3-10% of construction cost

• For a $600,000 build, expect $18,000-$60,000

• Higher percentages usually apply to smaller projects

Fixed Fee Rates:

• Initial concept designs: $3,000-$8,000

• Development application (DA) drawings: $5,000-$15,000

• Construction documentation: $8,000-$25,000

• Full service package: $15,000-$50,000+

Hourly Rates:

• Junior designers: $80-120/hour

• Mid-level designers: $120-180/hour

• Senior designers: $180-300/hour

Key services typically included:

1. Site analysis

2. Concept design

3. Design development

4. DA documentation

5. Construction documentation

6. Interior design (sometimes extra)

7. Project coordination

8. Council liaison

Factors affecting cost:

• Project complexity

• Site constraints

• Level of detail required

• Designer's experience

• Service level chosen

• Project size

• Location

• Required specialists (engineers, surveyors)

Additional costs to consider:

• Engineering reports: $2,000-$8,000

• Surveyor: $1,500-$4,000

• Council fees: $2,000-$10,000

• Energy assessments: $500-$1,500