The design process
STAGE ONE:
Initial Consultation and Brief
During this stage, we will meet with the client to ascertain the brief, budget and other parameters for the project. It is useful in this stage to view the existing space, undertake an internal measure and commission a survey to produce a set of existing information.
STAGE TWO:
Concept Design
This stage involves the preparation of design ideas in response to the client’s brief. Designs will be presented to the client to ascertain the best way forward.
STAGE THREE:
Design Development
During this stage we develop the client’s chosen concept into greater resolution to establish the required size, construction, finishes and massing, with another client checkpoint to ensure we are on the right track.
STAGE FOUR:
Development Application
Once the developed design has reached agreement with the client, we can prepare all of the necessary documentation and coordinate with the required constulants to produce an application for Council, be it a Development Application or Complying Development Certificate.
STAGE FIVE:
Construction Documentation
Once planning approval is received, we commence with detailed construction documentation through the preparation of drawings, schedules and specifications required to allow the project to be constructed. This stage includes the Construction Certificate required by Council in order to commence works.
STAGE SIX:
Contractor Selection
This stage involves the procurement of the project for construction, which may include Tendering to a selection of contractors to seek competitive pricing, or liaising with a preferred contractor.
STAGE SEVEN:
Project Delivery
During the site works, we as architect can impartially administer the Contract between client and contractor, helping to ensure outstanding design decisions are adequately managed, maintaining adherence to the project programme and budget, and the client’s vision.
STAGE EIGHT:
Handover
We love to stay in touch with our clients to hear feedback about the finished product, assist with any queries where possible and evaluate the performance of the building.
HERITAGE CONSULTANCY:
As a qualified heritage consultant, Studio Dewar is able to offer advice and consultancy services for your heritage project.
This includes research and report writing and can work in conjunction with our design work or independently in collaboration with other architects.
Studio Dewar is on the NSW Heritage Office list of consultants, and Mary Dewar Dutaillis is a member of ICOMOS Australia.
Mary Dewar Dutaillis
Director | Heritage Consultant
Studio Dewar was founded in 2019 by Mary Dewar Dutaillis, combining 20 years experience in Sydney and London, having worked across the spectrum of architectural projects including residential, commercial, retail, education, libraries and art galleries.
Harnessing this experience, Studio Dewar specialises in high-end residential architecture, heritage architecture, adaptive reuse and mixed use developments.
Studio Dewar offers full architectural services from concept to delivery, with a focus on functional spaces that prioritise natural light and respond to rigorous analysis of context and brief and close collaboration with clients. Our design is focused on carefully crafting each space to the unique needs of the end user, reflecting the client’s brief and budget and ensuring quality.
Mary has served on heritage committees for Sydney Living Museums and Rookwood General Cemetery, and is a member of ICOMOS Australia.
PG Dip Professional Practice & Management, Bartlett School of Architecure, UCL
Master Arts (Historic and Sustainable Architecture) NYU, London and New York
Bachelor Architecture University of Technology, Sydney
Nominated architect: Mary Dewar. NSW Registered Architect #11049
Tracey Lau
Architect
Tracey joined Studio Dewar in 2024, bringing a wealth of experience from practices Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, Welsh + Major and JPW. Tracey’s expertise spans a variety of project types and scales, including adaptive reuse, residential and commercial alterations, hotels and theatres.
A recent project undertaken with TZG, the conversion of a listed residential building to a private office in Woollahra was awarded the 2024 National Commendation for Commercial Architecture.
Master of Architecture, University of New South Wales
Bachelor of Architectural Studies, University of New South Wales
NSW Registered Architect #12124
Alexandra Dewar
Studio AJD - Interior Designer
Studio AJD, offering interior design, styling and project management services, is led by Alexandra Dewar.
With extensive experience within the residential and retail design industry, Alexandra offers in-depth knowledge of suppliers and materials, with a proven proficiency at project management and delivery.
Studio AJD collaborates with Studio Dewar on several projects.