Perhaps the better question is: What value does an architect create?

Introduction

It's one of the first questions almost every client asks—and understandably so.

Building or renovating a home is one of the largest financial commitments most people will ever make, and before embarking on that journey it's natural to want to understand how architects charge for their services.

The answer, however, isn't as straightforward as a single number.

Across Australia, architects use a variety of fee structures, each with its own advantages depending on the size, complexity and nature of a project. Understanding those approaches is the first step towards choosing an architect whose process aligns with your expectations.

Photography by Andy Macpherson Studio. Epic Architecture, Uralla NSW

Three Common Fee Models

Percentage of Construction Cost

This is one of the most common methods used throughout Australia.

The architect's fee is calculated as a percentage of the final construction cost, typically ranging between 8% and 15%, depending on the project's complexity and the level of service provided.

While this model can work well for some projects, it also means the architect's fee increases as the construction cost increases—even if the amount of architectural work remains largely unchanged.

Fixed Fee

Some architects provide a lump-sum fee for a clearly defined scope.

This offers certainty but often requires careful assumptions about project complexity. If the project changes significantly during design, additional services may be charged separately.

Hourly Rates

Hourly billing is generally used for feasibility studies, consultations, master planning, heritage advice or smaller renovation projects where the scope may not yet be fully defined.

Why We Chose a Different Approach

At Epic Architecture, we've deliberately chosen to structure our residential fees differently.

Rather than linking our value to the eventual construction cost of your home, we calculate our architectural fees primarily on floor area.

We believe this creates a fairer relationship between client and architect.

Our role isn't to encourage larger budgets.

It's to create better homes.

Whether your project is built economically or includes premium finishes is ultimately your decision. Our commitment to thoughtful design, technical coordination and delivering exceptional architecture remains exactly the same.

We believe the value of great architecture should never depend on how expensive your kitchen appliances are.

More Than Architectural Drawings

One of the biggest misconceptions about architects is that we simply produce plans.

In reality, architecture is about bringing together dozens of moving parts into one coordinated vision.

At Epic Architecture, our service extends well beyond design documentation.

We also provide:

✓ Architectural Design

Creating homes that respond to your lifestyle, site and climate.

✓ Interior Design

Developing cohesive interior spaces, materials, lighting, joinery and finishes that elevate the everyday experience of living in your home.

✓ Design Management

Coordinating consultants including structural engineers, civil engineers, energy assessors, certifiers, surveyors, landscape architects and specialist consultants.

✓ Builder Selection

Helping clients identify builders whose experience, workmanship and communication style align with the project.

✓ Trade Alignment

Over many years we've developed trusted relationships with builders, consultants and specialist trades throughout regional New South Wales. These relationships help projects move more smoothly while maintaining a consistently high standard of workmanship.

✓ Tender Reviews

Reviewing quotations, comparing pricing and helping clients understand where value exists before construction begins.

✓ Construction Support

Remaining involved during construction to answer questions, review details and help ensure the original design intent is maintained.

What Is Good Architecture Worth?

Good architecture isn't measured by pages of drawings.

It's measured by the life of the building.

A well-designed home can:

reduce construction costs through smarter planning
minimise unnecessary floor area
improve natural light and ventilation
reduce long-term energy bills
increase resale value
improve day-to-day functionality
avoid expensive mistakes during construction

These benefits continue long after the project is complete.

Architecture is one of the few investments in a home that continues paying dividends for decades.

Photography by Andy Macpherson Studio. Epic Architecture Armidale NSW

The Right Fee Structure Creates Better Conversations

By separating our fees from construction cost, conversations become focused on what matters most—creating the best possible home.

Our success isn't measured by how much your house costs.

It's measured by how well it performs, how comfortably it supports your family and how much you enjoy living there for years to come.

That philosophy sits at the heart of every project we undertake.

If you're planning a custom home, renovation or rural residence and would like to understand how our fee structure works, we'd be delighted to talk you through the process.

Every project is different, but every conversation starts the same way by understanding your goals before discussing numbers.

How Much Does an Architect Cost?