Setting up a Building Project for Success: Why Upfront Planning and Consent Advice Matters
When people think about starting a building project, they usually think about plans, layouts, and what the finished space will look like. In reality, the success of a project is often decided much earlier — in the upfront advice, investigations, and testing that happens before any detailed design begins.
At Moore Design, this is the part of the process we’ve been guiding clients through for over 15 years. We work closely with our clients and our consultant team — surveyors, planners, engineers, and other specialists — to make sure each project starts on solid ground.
It’s not the glamorous side of architecture, but it’s where good projects are made (and where a lot of costly mistakes are avoided).
Why does upfront planning matter?
Every site has its own rules and realities. Boundaries, levels, access, neighbouring properties, and council requirements all influence what can and can’t be built.
By understanding these early, we can:
- Reduce redesigns and delays
- Give clearer advice on budget, scope, and timing
- Identify consent risks before they become problems
- Make sure the design direction is realistic from day one
In short: it’s much easier (and cheaper) to solve problems on paper than on site.
Do I need Resource Consent or Building Consent?
This is one of the most common questions we’re asked — and the answer is: it depends on the site and the proposal.
Some projects can proceed with Building Consent only. Others will require Resource Consent first, especially if the design:
- Sits closer to boundaries than the rules allow
- Pushes height, coverage, or recession plane controls
- Has access, parking, or streetscape implications
- Is in a special planning area or overlay
A big part of our role is working this out early, explaining the risks clearly, and helping clients choose the smartest path forward.
A Real Example: Starting a Renovation the Right Way
On a recent renovation in Raumati Beach, the project involved relocating the existing house, adding a new front extension with a garage and covered storage, extending the rear of the house, and creating new outdoor living areas and terraced landscaping.
Before moving too far into design, we coordinated early input from our surveyor and planning consultants, including:
- A full topographical survey to map site levels, boundaries, and neighbouring features
- Confirmation of boundary locations and discussion around marking these on site
- Early planning advice around placing a garage closer to the front boundary than typically permitted
- Identification of potential consent risks, including vehicle access and streetscape impact
- Early testing of whether a Resource Consent would be required — and how complex that process might be
At the same time, we’re always thinking ahead to Building Consent, making sure the design direction and technical information will support a smoother approval process later on.
What happens if you skip this step?
Skipping early advice often leads to:
- Designs needing major changes after council feedback
- Delays while extra information is gathered
- Unexpected costs for redesigns and extra consultant work
- Frustration when a good idea turns out not to be feasible
Good upfront advice reduces risk and gives you clarity before you commit too far.
How Moore Design Helps
This is the kind of work Moore Design has been doing for over 15 years. We don’t just design buildings — we help clients navigate the early stages with clear, practical advice.
We:
- Coordinate the right consultants at the right time
- Provide upfront guidance on Resource Consent and Building Consent pathways
- Identify risks and opportunities early
- Help shape a design strategy that is realistic, buildable, and consentable
Good projects don’t start with pretty pictures. They start with good information, good advice, and a clear plan forward.
If you’re considering a renovation, new build, or development, getting the right advice upfront can make all the difference.