An architectural feasibility study is exactly what it sounds like – a chance for the architect to research, understand, and present whether or not the project is actually feasible. This is a huge, lesser-known part of architectural design. Yes, we’ll always do our best to create designs that meet your vision – but in some cases, there are visions that present limitations and can be challenging to get approved or built. 

What is an architectural feasibility study?

An architectural feasibility study (also referred to as ‘project analysis’ by the team at Crush Architecture) is an opportunity for us architects to review, assess, and plan what is achievable within a project. It will involve:

• Regulatory research and analysis: A thorough review of the applicable local planning controls and regulations for the building project, such as the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP) in NSW. This is to ensure that the design and requirements of the building project comply with zoning, land use, BCA or NCC building codes, and environmental considerations. 

• Analysis of existing building or land: An assessment of the building’s current condition (in the case of renovation or expansion work) or the land to determine the viability of the planned works. 

• Potential diagrams: The analysis will highlight any areas of attention or potential for development based on the initial brief. These will be presented in the form of diagrams that showcase different design options for development that can be further refined down the line.

• Estimation of cost: A feasibility study will contain a list of cost estimates outlining the design, construction, consultancy, supervision, and documentation services for the project. This provides a basis to understand the overall costs of the project, and whether or not it’s achievable within the planned budget.

• Projected timeline for completion: An estimated timeline of progression for the project to provide clarity on how long it will take, and what is involved at each stage of the build. 

Once the feasibility study has been completed, it’s time to come together to run through the findings and pitch potential alternatives for parts of the project that are not 100% feasible. 

Why a feasibility study is necessary for building projects

From there, we can then prepare a report that outlines the key decisions of the meeting along with the next steps following the project analysis. 

A feasibility study is essential for highlighting the viability of a proposed building project — simply going ahead with a design in mind without doing the necessary research will often result in delays, unexpectedly high costs, or outright rejection of the project altogether by the relevant council authority. 

• Risk reduction – Understanding the regulations that apply to the project or land use can help avoid unnecessary delays and safely obtain developmental approval (DA) or CDC (Complying Development Certificate). Failing to take DA into consideration can result in delays to the project that lasts from months to years. 

• Budget management – Project analysis will help to identify potential costs early on based on factors like the condition of the site, the cost of materials, and so on. This allows a fairly accurate budget to be built that reduces the risk of surprise costs in later stages of the build.  

• Clear brief – Defining the project brief with a feasibility study ensures that all stakeholders and working teams are on the same page. This will help to move forward with the planning of the project without compromising the goals of the build. 

• Comprehensive investment understanding – A feasibility study will provide clients with an overview of their investment from every angle — factors including the layout of the property to the privacy offered by the build will provide valuable information on how the project can be best leveraged. 

At which stage should a feasibility study be performed?

Ideally, a feasibility study should be carried out as early on in the build planning process as possible — even if you don’t yet have a complete vision of the project! The reason behind this is that the limitations posed by the land and local regulations are static; it’s better to first gain an understanding of what they are, and then work around it to achieve specific goals. 

Who can prepare a feasibility study? 

An architect can carry out a feasibility study. Work with someone who knows the land, has experience in the type of project you’re looking to carry out, and whose work you like!

Some architectural firms also have connections with local council planning experts who can provide critical advice that is applicable to the project due to their knowledge of the council’s requirements. 

At Crush Architecture, our lead architect, Carlo Russo specialises in heritage architecture and sustainable design projects across Sydney. In our project analysis team, we work with town planners and council approval experts. Whether you choose to work with us for a residential or commercial building project, we can deliver an extensive feasibility study that helps to achieve a quick and seamless Developmental Approval.