The Practice of Architecture

Question 1

Define a ‘low complexity project’

Answer 1

Means simple buildings or groups of buildings in an uncomplicated grouping with low impact on the environment:

structures with:

• low performance requirements
• simple utilitarian character, design and detail
• are constructed utilizing standard low technology building methods
• require a minimum of mechanical and electrical services or equipment, and basic civil works infrastructure

Question 2

Define a ‘medium complexity project’

Answer 2

means buildings or groups of buildings in a relatively uncomplicated grouping with a medium impact on its environs:

• structures with medium performance requirements
• structures are of average character and design or detail
• structures require non-complex structural and civil works and an average level of mechanical or electrical equipment as could normally be handled by design- supply specialist contractors

Question 3

Define a ‘high complexity project’

Answer 3

means a building or buildings in a large or complicated grouping with a significant impact on its environs:

structures with:

• high performance requirements
• demanding a sophisticated level of design and detail content to respond to specialized requirements

Complex buildings will usually incorporate comparatively large or specialised mechanical, electrical and other specialist installations, or be of complex structural or civil design

Question 4

Apportionment of fees between work stages - what percentage per stage?

Answer 4

Stage 1: 2% (Inception)
Stage 2: 15% (Concept & Viability)
Stage 3: 20% (Design Development)
Stage 4.1: 10% (Documentation & Procurement)
Stage 4.2: 20% (Documentation & Procurement)
Stage 5: 30% (Construction)
Stage 6: 3% (Close-out)