Question 1

How long does an architectural project take?

Accepted Answer

A typical custom residence runs 18–36 months from briefing to handover. Design takes 3–6 months, documentation 2–3 months, permitting 1–3 months, and construction 12–24 months depending on size and contractor quality. Commercial projects vary significantly by scale.

Question 2

How are architectural fees structured?

Accepted Answer

We typically charge a percentage of the construction cost — 8–12% for full residential services depending on complexity. This covers briefing, concept design, documentation, tender, and construction administration. Lump-sum and hourly arrangements are available for partial-scope engagements.

Question 3

What is included in a full architectural service?

Accepted Answer

A full service includes: site analysis and briefing, concept design, schematic design, design development, construction documentation, consultant coordination, permit submission, contractor selection, and construction administration through to practical completion.

Question 4

Do I need planning permission for my project?

Accepted Answer

In Karachi, most new constructions and significant extensions require approval from the relevant development authority (KDA, DHA, SBCA, etc.). We manage the entire submission process and are familiar with the requirements of each authority.

Question 5

How do you approach residential design?

Accepted Answer

We begin with a thorough brief — understanding not just the spaces you need but how you actually live. We visit the site extensively, analyse orientation and views, and develop a concept that responds specifically to your family, your plot, and your city. We do not have a signature style; we have a rigorous process.

Question 6

What is passive design and why does it matter in Karachi?

Accepted Answer

Passive design uses building orientation, cross-ventilation, thermal mass, and shading to create comfort without mechanical systems. In Karachi's coastal climate — hot and humid with strong south-westerly breezes — passive design strategies can dramatically reduce energy consumption and improve livability. We incorporate passive design principles into every project.

Question 7

Can you work within a fixed budget?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Budget discipline is a design skill, not a constraint. We discuss costs openly from the first conversation and provide preliminary cost estimates at the concept stage. We prefer to set realistic expectations early than to deliver surprises at tender.

Question 8

Do you manage construction or just design?

Accepted Answer

We offer full construction administration as part of our service. This means we visit site regularly, respond to contractor queries, review samples and shop drawings, certify progress payments, and manage the defects process. Our involvement on site is not peripheral — it is the difference between the building that was designed and the building that gets built.

Question 9

What is the difference between an architect and a contractor?

Accepted Answer

The architect designs, documents, and administers. The contractor constructs. The architect is your advocate and quality assurance during construction — ensuring the contractor delivers what the drawings specify. Having an architect administering your contract is the strongest protection against substandard work.

Question 10

How do I start a project with Axis Studio?

Accepted Answer

Contact us with a brief description of your project — type, location, approximate size, and timeline. We will arrange an initial conversation to understand your brief and explain our process. If there is a good fit, we will prepare a fee proposal for your review.

Question 11

Can you design for sites outside Karachi?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have designed projects in Thatta, Sindh and are open to projects elsewhere in Pakistan. For sites at distance, we structure site visits strategically and supplement with video consultations.

Question 12

What is LEED certification and is it worth pursuing?

Accepted Answer

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally recognised rating system for sustainable buildings. Achieving certification adds cost to the design and documentation process, but the resulting buildings perform better, cost less to operate, and carry a demonstrable quality premium. Our founder's thesis project was LEED-certified and informs our approach to sustainable design across the practice.

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