FAQs – Design – where do I start

FAQs – Building styles & builders

FAQs – What happens next?

FAQs – Costing

FAQs – Being Green and sustainable

FAQs – What types of features increase a building’s energy rating?

FAQs Design – where do I start

I have a project in mind, but don’t know where to start? Can you advise me?

Bring in pictures, or articulate features you like about buildings. They don’t have to be the same building, just pictures of design types you like and why. We have helped clients in the past bring these features together.

What types of things do I need to bring or think about before an initial consultation?

Budget for construction , Style of home, what do I want to do in this home? How green do you want this building to be?

If I don’t have a block, can Modarch help?

Yes, we can advise on the best block for your design or design ideas.

How can Modarch help with a knockdown rebuild?

Energy efficiency has come a long way in the past 20 to 30 years. Modarch can help by re-evaluating the site to ensure you are getting the best use of the site with respect to energy efficiency as well as land use.

Will Modarch help me get the most out of my block?

With respect to site orientation and best use of internal and external space, Modarch certainly will. Modarch will take into consideration the orientation of the building to be as energy efficient as possible. We can also advise as to what energy products will be the most efficient for your particular building.

FAQs – Building styles & builders

Can any builder build any style of home?

Modarch believes this is not always the case and may be a risk. Some builders specialise in certain types of styles. Because they are experienced in certain styles this can save time and money, not to mention give you peace of mind.

Can Modarch recommend a builder?

Yes, Modarch can.

Why use a recommended Modarch builder?

To take some of the ‘guess work’ out of choosing a builder. Rest assured the builders we use and recommend have demonstrated, many times over, their reliability, skill and judgement. If you have an unusual design the builder you choose becomes more important. Knowing the standard of work gives you more certainty and confidence in pushing your design aspirations.

Do I have to use a Modarch recommended builder?

No you don’t. Modarch is happy to work with your builder preferred builder, if you have one. We recommend builders because we know their work standards.

FAQs – What happens next?

What happens next?

Once a builder is selected you will sign a contract to complete all planned works as approved by the local planning authorities.

During the building works you’ll be frequently updated by your project manager on how you are tracking with respect to time and budget.

Can I change anything once the process commences?

Regular communication with your project manager gives you the chance to reflne your decisions for whatever reasons.

I have project management skills, can I project manage this project myself?

Yes, even if you don’t have project management skills and you would like to project manage your build you still can.

Can I pick and choose Modarch’s services?

Yes you can. Modarch has arranged its business model to allow clients flexibility of services. It is designed to give clients peace of mind by being involved as little or as much as they like, knowing when required professional services can be brought in when required, such as quantity surveyors.

FAQs – Costing

How do I know how much things will cost?

Once your plans are complete you’ll be provided with a detailed quantity estimate, in other words a costing. This estimate will be created by our qualified quantity surveyor.

Why use a quantity surveyor?

The role of a quantity survey is to estimate the entire cost of the project, taking into account all aspects including site costs.

How does this benefit me?

The quantity surveyor’s report ensures you are getting value for money from your builder and trade services in the case of owner builders.

FAQs – Being Green and Sustainable

There are a lot of products proclaiming to be Green. Can Modarch advise on the efficiency of Green products?

Modarch specialises on the efficiency of Green products. It prides itself on recommending products that have real ‘Green Savings’.

‘Green’ the build and living, what does this mean?

Modarch does not want the Green benefits to end just at the build. We want you to have a happy and healthy environment to live in. This is why was can suggest products that have long term health benefits to you and your family.

How can I have a healthy building?

Modarch can advise you about reducing toxic fumes in the home by recommending materials that have either no or low Volatile Organic Compounds – VOC – IE less pollutants than others. Hence reducing the chances of your home becoming a, ‘sick building’ in the future.

What are the benefits of green building?

Buildings have an enormous impact on the environment, human health, and the economy. The successful adoption of green building strategies can maximise both the economic and environmental performance of buildings. For instance, considering the materials used can prevent the building from becoming a ‘sick building’. The attention to indoor air quality can create a much healthier environment, and reduce problems from allergies.

Can only new builds become green buildings?

New buildings may be designed and built to be green buildings. However, existing building can also become green through remodeling, retro-fitting and improved technologies. This is where Modarch can assist in a very real and cost saving way.

FAQs –What types of features increase a building’s energy rating?

• Effective Insulation

Properly installed, climate-appropriate insulation in floors and walls, ensures consistent temperatures throughout the house, less energy consumption, and increased comfort.

• High-Performance Windows

Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frame assemblies, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolour carpets and furnishings.

• Tight Construction and Ducts

Sealing holes and cracks in the home’s “envelope” and in duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility bills.

• Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment

In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. Typically, energy-efficient equipment is also more durable and requires less maintenance than standard models.

• Lighting and Appliances

ENERGY STAR qualified homes may also be equipped with ENERGY STAR qualified products — lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, and ventilation fans. These ENERGY STAR qualified products provide additional energy savings to the owner.

Are Green Buildings and Homes More Expensive?

Green Buildings do not have to be more expensive, but can be depending upon how Green you would like to be and what you want to include. Energy efficiency elements, such as more efficient windows, insulation and heating systems often can have a very quick payback. Other elements may be harder to quantify. A more difficult area to measure is related to future resale value. As Green Building becomes more widely understood and sought after, resale values will rise, offering greater return on investment. Modarch are specialists in advising on what green products give you the best value for money.