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What makes a good SDA Building Designer?

What makes a good SDA Building Designer?

By SDA ADVISORY SERVICES   Feb 28, 2024   NDIS Info

Many elements go into building and designing SDA homes that are often overlooked and ignored such as the essential aspects of SDA build design and the responsibilities of a build designer in ensuring the design meets the required standards for accessibility, safety, and functionality. With this in mind, it's a difficult job to get right, however, it's vital to find a good building designer for your SDA home.



What makes a good building designer?


NDIS Guidelines

The building designer must have a thorough understanding of the NDIS guidelines and regulations related to specialist disability accommodation (SDA) to ensure that the design meets the required standards for accessibility, safety, and functionality.


Concept Design

The building designer must collaborate with stakeholders, including developers, architects, engineers, and disability support providers, to develop the concept design for the NDIS development. This involves translating the project requirements and objectives into a preliminary design concept that addresses the specific needs of people with disabilities.


Compliance Review

Throughout the design process, the building designer will conduct regular reviews to ensure that the design complies with all relevant building codes, accessibility standards, and NDIS guidelines. They also ensure that the design aligns with the approved funding model and meets the eligibility criteria for SDA funding.


Accessibility and Inclusivity

The building designer must focus on creating an inclusive and accessible environment that accommodates the diverse needs of people with disabilities. This may involve incorporating features such as wheelchair ramps, wide doorways, adjustable countertops, and sensory-friendly elements into the design.


Technical Expertise
The building designer will provide technical expertise and guidance on construction methods, materials, and building systems to optimize the design for efficiency, durability, and sustainability. They also liaise with engineers and other consultants to address structural, mechanical, and electrical considerations.


Documentation and Specifications

The building designer needs to prepare detailed construction documentation, including drawings, specifications, and schedules, to communicate the design intent and requirements to contractors and subcontractors. They ensure that all documentation is accurate, comprehensive, and compliant with regulatory requirements.


Quality Assurance

Throughout the construction phase, the building designer ought to conduct regular site inspections and quality assurance checks to monitor progress, identify any issues or deviations from the design, and ensure that construction meets the specified standards and requirements.


Collaboration and Coordination

The building designer should collaborate closely with the project team, including architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors, to coordinate the implementation of the design and resolve any design-related challenges or conflicts that may arise during construction.


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