Exploring The Schematic Design Phase

To ensure we create beautiful homes on the North Shore that perfectly suit our client’s vision, we must strictly adhere to a particular architectural design process that allows us to get it right every time.

Our overall process differs depending on whether you’re building your forever home, maximising land value or developing a SEPP project, but each contains a schematic design stage.

So, what’s involved in schematic designs? And what can you expect?

Playoust Churcher - Schematic design phase

Schematic designs to your dream home

Schematic designs come after the very first step in the process, where we explore the feasibility and initial design of a project. Schematics simply refers to the sketching and diagrams that we draw up to show you what your project will look like once it’s completed.

We love this stage as it allows us to really get creative. It’s often our client’s favourite stage too, because it gives them a proper idea of what they’re working towards and allows them to refine all the details and incorporate every little thing that they’ve envisioned.

Schematic designs are where we turn dreams into something tangible, and while it can take a while and multiple design iterations before we hit the jackpot, putting in the work upfront means we have a much clearer project design to work towards.

Going beyond simple outlines, your schematic design will include details on all the different elements that create beautiful architecture: function, style, proportions, layout, spaces and exterior/interior aesthetics.

Conducting in-depth schematic designs also allows us a full view of the scope of the project, including building costs and timeframes, so you’ve got a clear expectation of your project from conception to construction.

Schematic designs for land developments

When we’re creating schematic designs for developments like subdividing land or estate plans, we’ll also include references to any zoning requirements in the schematic design, which helps you understand how your build integrates within the surrounding area.

Particularly for larger developments, the schematic design phase allows us to visualise multiple other factors like landscaping, gardens and parking.

Whether you’re subdividing to support multigenerational living or developing a SEPP project, the schematic designs will help us solidify plans, have a clear overview of costs and ensure the project meets the needs of your end-users, whether that’s going to be yourself or someone else.

This method of bringing your concept to life allows us to design fit-for-purpose housing across units, townhouses, villas and estates to maximise the land value and protect your investment.

Using visualisation tools

Once we’ve finished creating these design concepts, we’ll present them to you using clever visualisation tools that go far beyond a rough sketch on a cocktail napkin!

We provide you with highly detailed visualisations of your entire home, inside and out, using techniques such as 3D computer modelling capabilities.

Utilising high-tech tools like this offers you the chance to have an illustrated walkthrough of your design, providing the opportunity to get a feel for the layout and overall plan via your very own virtual home tour.

Playoust Churcher - Choosing final design

Choosing the final design

During the schematic design phase, we might supply a few different design variations before you choose the final design.

We understand how difficult it can be to make decisions on something so important, so incorporating different styles and designs helps your creativity flow and consider different ideas that could work. Plus, our design team will support you in making important decisions using their decades of industry experience so you can enjoy the confidence of working with experts.

Schematic designs also support our cost-conscious approach by offering differently priced elements and materials to help you make an informed choice.

There is simply no better way to prepare and plan for the build of your dreams. If you’re full of big ideas for a design project on the North Shore, we’d love to hear it.

Contact our strategic design team today to start collaborating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the schematic design phase in architecture?

The schematic design phase is the early creative stage where the architect develops preliminary design concepts—including layout options, massing studies, and site arrangements—to establish the overall form and spatial configuration of the project.

How does schematic design benefit the architectural process?

This phase allows testing of multiple layout scenarios before committing to detailed design. It helps ensure that flow, scale, orientation, and zoning compliance align with client priorities and site constraints before advancing to documentation.

What deliverables are produced during schematic design?

Typical outputs include concept sketches or diagrams, basic floor plan layouts, massing models or shadow studies, exploded views for spatial zones, and an initial cost estimate or feasibility review to refine project scope.

Why is schematic design important for high-end homes or heritage projects?

In high-end or heritage contexts, schematic design enables careful exploration of how new elements integrate with existing architecture or site objects without impacting heritage character, daylight access, or internal flow—and avoids costly changes later.

How does Playoust Churcher conduct schematic design?

We start with site analysis and client briefing, develop layout and massing options aligned with locality context, and present refined schematic designs alongside feasibility feedback and planning considerations. This sets the foundation for detailed design and approvals.

What happens after schematic design is completed?

After approval of the schematic design, we move into design development and documentation—preparing detailed plans, elevations, materials, consultant input, and DA submission. This phase builds on schematic decisions with precision and coordination.

How can I begin the schematic design phase with Playoust Churcher?

Start by booking a design consultation. We’ll review your site, understand your goals, and outline the schematic design process so you can see how your project will journey from concept to build.

Key takeaways

A Launchpad for Design Outcomes That Deliver

In essence, schematic design is where ideas take actionable form. Playoust Churcher leverages this phase to refine functional flow, aesthetic direction, and feasibility—laying the groundwork for seamless transition into detailed design and delivery.

Strategic Visualization from Multiple Angles

Multiple design options are developed and presented, offering clients a visual exploration of layout possibilities. This empowers informed decision-making and ensures the chosen direction aligns with both vision and budget.

Alignment with Regulations & Land Potential

Early in the process, schematic design integrates critical considerations like zoning, landscaping, and parking (especially crucial in land developments). This ensures compliance and aligns design contextual realities.

Enhancing Client Engagement and Cost Clarity

By providing virtual walkthroughs and detailed visuals—including costed design elements—Playoust Churcher empowers clients to understand spatial qualities and budget implications before committing.

Meet the Author

Brett Churcher

Managing Director & Nominated Architect 
NSW Architect Registration No. 5924

With over 30 years of architectural experience, Brett Churcher leads Playoust Churcher Architects with a rare combination of design expertise and commercial insight. As a registered architect and Managing Director, Brett has played a pivotal role in delivering high-end single residential homes and boutique medium-density developments across Sydney’s North Shore and beyond.

Brett’s unique strength lies in his deep understanding of both architectural design and the Sydney property market. His valuation background enables him to align creative vision with practical feasibility, ensuring each project achieves both aesthetic excellence and financial viability.

At Playoust Churcher, Brett drives the studio’s growth, strategy, and leadership, while remaining closely connected to what matters most: the client. His ability to see the bigger picture from a client’s perspective and to guide projects seamlessly through the design process is at the heart of his role and reputation.