for Sydney & the Blue Mountains
TOP Design offers end-to-end architectural services — from the first sketch to council approval and construction support. You work directly with the principal architect, not a junior team.
Concept Sketch Plans
We turn your ideas, site constraints and budget into clear, coordinated drawings and 3D visualisations after the initial meeting.
Alterations, Additions & Renovations
Thoughtful upgrades to existing homes that improve flow, light and liveability while respecting the original character and council rules.
Find out which one of our services fit the needs of your project
Concept Sketch Plan
At TOP Design Architectural Studio, we translate the outcomes of the initial concept meeting into carefully prepared concept plans. Your ideas are developed into clear, coordinated drawings and visualisations to ensure efficient decision-making and strong design outcomes. Deliverables commonly include floor plans, elevations, sections, and 3D models.
Compliance with Council Controls
We undertake a thorough review of all relevant council controls to guarantee full compliance throughout the planning and approval process. This includes preparing, organising and cross-checking every document required for local council submissions — for example, BASIX certificates, Statements of Environmental Effects, detailed building specifications, and any supplementary forms or reports. We also verify that plans align with local zoning and development standards, confirm that supporting evidence is complete and consistent, and compile the application package to reduce delays or requests for further information. Key elements we manage: * Preparation and verification of statutory documents (e.g., BASIX, SEEs). * Detailed building specifications and plan checks. * Coordination of ancillary reports and forms required by the council. * Consistency checks against local planning controls and zoning requirements. * Compilation and organisation of the full application package to minimise the risk of rejection or referral.
Client Approval and Council Submission
Finalized concept plans are reviewed and approved after incorporating any changes requested by the client, before being submitted to the council on behalf of the client. For straightforward plans, a single set of documents often suffices for both planning and construction detailing. In the case of more complex designs, separate submissions may be required. A Statement of Environmental Impact is frequently necessary at the planning approval stage.
Preparation of Council Submission Plans
We will prepare and assemble all required council documents for submission through the NSW Planning Portal. We will ensure that all controls comply with development standards set out in legislation. The decision-making process for development is governed by state and local planning legislation, strategies, controls, and policies addressing various planning issues. Rules and regulations vary based on location and specific building sites, and there are numerous maps, plans, and policies tailored to specific issues such as medium-density housing, heritage, and hazard-affected areas
Development Application preparation and submission
We will prepare and assemble all required council documents for submission through the NSW Planning Portal. We will ensure that all controls comply with development standards set out in legislation. The decision-making process for development is governed by state and local planning legislation, strategies, controls, and policies addressing various planning issues. Rules and regulations vary based on location and specific building sites, and there are numerous maps, plans, and policies tailored to specific issues such as medium-density housing, heritage, and hazard-affected areas. TOP Design Architectural Studio prepares all necessary supporting documents before submission to the local council. We develop and compile all required applications and forms for permits and certificates before submission. We ensure that all plans and documents meet relevant requirements and development standards, facilitating a smooth and efficient submission process. Whether your project is small or large, TOP Design Architectural Studio is committed to delivering results that align with your plans and budget. By partnering with TOP Design Architectural Studio, you can trust that your project will be managed with professionalism, ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards and achieving your desired outcomes effectively.
Ensuring Smooth Submission and Complianceent pricing
We ensure that all plans and documents meet relevant requirements and development standards, facilitating a smooth and efficient submission process. Whether your project is small or large, TOP Design Architectural Studio is committed to delivering results that align with your plans and budget. By partnering with TOP Design Architectural Studio, you can trust that your project will be managed with professionalism, ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards and achieving your desired outcomes effectively.
Why clients choose Top Design
Direct access to the principal architect, not a junior team
25+ years of experience across Sydney and the Blue Mountains
A transparent, step-by-step process from concept to council approval
Local knowledge of Sydney and Blue Mountains council requirements
