IDS Case Study: How We Deliver Projects On Time and On Budget

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At Integral Design Solutions, we don’t just talk about project delivery

— we demonstrate it. Here’s how our approach to integrated design and

project management consistently delivers better outcomes for our

Melbourne clients.

Our Integrated Service Model

Unlike firms that separate design and project management, Integral

Design Solutions provides both services under one roof. This integration

eliminates the communication gaps that frequently cause cost overruns

and programme delays in traditionally structured projects. When the

design team and the project management team are the same team, there is

no opportunity for misalignment between design intent and construction

delivery.

Project: Architectural Building — Melbourne Commercial

Challenge: A Melbourne commercial client required a new two-storey

office building within a complex heritage precinct. The brief required

sensitive heritage integration, tight programme (12 months from design

start to occupancy), and a fixed budget of $2.8 million.

Our approach: We conducted a pre-design heritage assessment to

understand the specific controls before committing to a design

direction. We developed a concept that met heritage guidelines at the

first submission, avoiding the revision cycles that typically add 2–4

months to heritage permit applications. We tendered the construction

works during the planning period, achieving practical overlap that saved

6 weeks on the overall programme. The project reached practical

completion 3 weeks ahead of programme and $85,000 under budget.

Project: Subdivision — Hawthorn East

Challenge: A client wanted to subdivide a 900sqm residential lot in a

heritage precinct in Hawthorn East. Multiple previous applications for

properties in the precinct had been refused. The client had been advised

by one firm that the site was unsuitable for subdivision.

Our approach: We conducted a detailed analysis of the heritage precinct

controls and identified a subdivision configuration that preserved the

heritage frontage and met all planning requirements. Our permit

application was approved at first assessment without objection. The

client received a separate title for the rear lot, which subsequently

sold for $620,000.

Project: House Renovation — South Yarra Heritage

Challenge: A South Yarra Victorian terrace required comprehensive

renovation and rear extension within a heritage overlay. The client had

a fixed budget of $580,000 and a requirement to maintain rental income

from the property during construction.

Our approach: We phased the construction programme to allow the property

to be partially tenanted during the initial works, reducing the rental

income loss to 4 months rather than the 10 months originally estimated.

We managed the heritage permit application and building permit

concurrently with the construction documentation, saving 3 months on the

pre-construction phase. The project was delivered within budget and with

heritage permit conditions fully satisfied at first inspection.

Start Your Project With Integral Design Solutions

These outcomes are not exceptional at Integral Design Solutions — they

are our standard. Our 28 years of experience, our integrated design and

project management model, and our deep knowledge of Melbourne’s

planning and building environment means we consistently deliver projects

that exceed our clients’ expectations.

Whether you are considering an architectural building project,

subdivision planning, house renovation, peer review, or full project

management, we invite you to contact us for an initial consultation. We

offer transparent pricing, clear communication, and a genuine commitment

to your project’s success.

Ready to Get Started? Contact Integral Design Solutions today for

expert all architectural and project management services services in

Melbourne and Victoria. Visit integraldesignsolutions.com.au/ or call

us to book a free consultation.

Info@integraldesignsolutions.com.au

208 White Road, North Wonthaggi VIC 3995, Australia

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