Every project follows the same five steps. Simple, open and personal, so that you know where you are and what comes next.
Frank Lee · Founder, LBP (Design) - TalkA free first conversation about your site, your plans and your budget.
- PlanWe check feasibility and give you a clear, written fee proposal.
- DesignWe develop the design with you until it's right.
- ConsentWe prepare and lodge your resource and building consents.
- BuildWe support you and your builder through to completion.
Renovations, alterations & new homes
+
Every project starts with listening: how you live, what isn't working, and what you want your home to feel like. Frank spent years on the tools as a builder before designing, so your plans are practical to build, easy to price and ready for consent.
- Character home renovations
- Extensions & second-storey additions
- Minor dwellings
- New homes
- Townhouse & multi-unit developments
- Large-scale residential complexes
- Concept design
- Design options & 3D views
For homeowners, developers and businesses across Auckland.
Resource consent
+
If your project goes beyond what the Auckland Unitary Plan allows as of right, you'll need resource consent. We prepare the drawings and application, coordinate any specialist reports, and deal with Auckland Council on your behalf, including responding to any requests for more information.
- Planning assessment & consent strategy
- Resource consent drawings & application
- Coordination with planners & specialists
- Council liaison through to decision
Feasibility & site potential
+
Before you buy, sell or start designing, we look at what your site can realistically hold. We check the Auckland Unitary Plan zoning, height and boundary rules, overlays, services and access. Then we give you a clear picture of your options and the likely consent path.
- Zoning & planning rules review
- Site layout & yield options
- Cost drivers & risks
- Clear recommendation on next steps
For homeowners planning a big change, buyers doing due diligence, and developers testing a site.
Building consent
+
We prepare full building consent drawings and specifications that show your project meets the New Zealand Building Code. We coordinate with engineers and other consultants so everything lines up before it reaches council. That means fewer delays and fewer surprises.
- Building consent drawings & specifications
- Engineer & consultant coordination
- Lodging & council liaison
- Documentation your builder can price from
Minor variations & amendments
+
It's normal for things to change once building starts. You might move a window, swap a material or adjust a layout. We prepare minor variations and consent amendments so changes are approved properly and the build isn't held up.
- Minor variations to approved building consents
- Building consent and resource consent amendments
- Fast turnaround to keep your build moving
Already have consent through another designer? We can help with variations too.
Project coordination
+
You deal directly with the person designing your project. Frank keeps your consultants, council and builder coordinated, and keeps you informed at every step.
- Coordinating consultants, council and builder
- Programme and progress updates
- Site visits during construction
- Support through to code compliance certificate
Areas we work
We're based in Auckland and work across the wider region — from inner-city renovations to coastal holiday homes.
Common questions
What's the difference between an architectural designer and an architect?
Both design buildings. Architects are registered with the NZ Registered Architects Board. Architectural designers like Frank are licensed under the Licensed Building Practitioner scheme to design residential buildings. For most homes, renovations and townhouses, an experienced LBP designer is a practical choice, often with more direct contact and a more cost-effective fee.
Do I need resource consent?
It depends on your zone and what you're building. We can check quickly and tell you before you spend money on design.
How long does consent take?
Auckland Council has a statutory timeframe of 20 working days for each consent, but the clock stops whenever council asks for more information. Complete documentation is the best way to avoid delays.
How much do your services cost?
Every project is different. After our first conversation, we'll give you a clear, written fee proposal so you know the cost upfront.
Can you help with a project another designer started?
Yes. We often pick up projects partway through, including minor variations on existing consents.
Let's talk about your project
Tell us about your site and what you'd like to do. Frank will get back to you personally within two working days.