It has been our experience that the development of a strategic design brief at the outset of a building development project is essential for a successful outcome. The design brief ensures that the client maintains control over the project, a very important aspect, particularly when the organisation is to invest large sums of money on the proposed development.

Development of the strategic design brief is undertaken in two distinct phases as follows:

Phase 1: Project Definition and Design Philosophy

Phase 2: Preparation of Strategic Design Brief

The general tasks within each of these phases are summarised below.

Project Definition and Design Philosophy

An inception workshop would be held at the outset of the project, with attendees comprising of relevant client representatives and a representative from the GR Consulting team.

The objectives and proposed outcomes of the workshop will be as follows:

Objectives

To confirm the strategic objective of the client in relation to the proposed building development and accordingly develop a philosophy of design and agreed level of service to provide the additional aged care accommodation at the site.

Key issues canvassed would include:

  • Strategic direction
  • Client/owner objectives
  • Resident profile
  • Accommodation mixes
  • Building classification
  • Certification status and objectives
  • Functional aspects
  • Operational issues
  • Building related issues
  • Timelines
  • Cost of works.

Outcomes

Agree on the broad principles associated with design of new building works and develop an action plan to implement the next stage of the project.

Document agreed outcomes from inception workshop.

Preparation of Strategic Design Brief

Based on the agreed outcomes from the inception workshop, a strategic design brief will be prepared incorporating the following key design criteria:

  • Commonwealth Building Certification Standards.
  • General design philosophy.
  • Resident classification mix.
  • Building classification.
  • Personal space requirements.
  • Environment considerations including sanitary provisions, landscape amenity, pathways, engineering services, support areas, etc.
  • Level of service including bedroom accommodation, ensuite/bathroom facilities, lounge room/sitting areas, pathways and handrails, communal facilities, etc.
  • Building services including heating and cooling, security, communication systems, etc.
  • Service areas, incorporating laundry/linen exchange areas, food service areas, medical equipment areas, nurse’s station, etc.