EPISODE 211 - LUKE KELLEHER DESIGNS: Luke Kelleher

The SDA HOUSING Podcast

Today we welcome Luke Kelleher. He has been working in the SDA space as a Building Designer for about 18 months, and we thought it would be great to get him onto the show so our listeners can hear the ins and outs of working with builders and investors when it comes to SDA housing.
You must be asking, "Isn't the role of a Building Designer in SDA pretty straight forward?" Well, yes and no, as they do play a crucial for ensuring compliance and successful project delivery from concept design to completion. Here’s a breakdown of a Building Designer's responsibilities:
1. Understanding the SDA Design Standard: The Building Designer must have a thorough understanding of the NDIS build design guidelines related to SDA to ensure that the design meets the required standards for accessibility, safety, and functionality.
2. Concept Design: The Building Designer collaborates with stakeholders, including developers, architects, engineers, and disability support providers, to develop the concept design for the NDIS development. This involves translating the project requirements and objectives into a preliminary design concept that addresses the specific needs of people with disabilities.
3. Compliance Review: Throughout the design process, the Building Designer conducts regular reviews to ensure that the design complies with all relevant building codes, accessibility standards, and NDIS guidelines. They also ensure that the design aligns with the approved funding model and meets the eligibility criteria for SDA funding.
4. Accessibility and Inclusivity: The Build Designer focuses on creating an inclusive and accessible environment that accommodates the diverse needs of people with disabilities. This may involve incorporating features such as wheelchair ramps, wide doorways, adjustable countertops, and sensory-friendly elements into the design.
5. Technical Expertise: The Building Designer provides technical expertise and guidance on construction methods, materials, and building systems to optimize the design for efficiency, durability, and sustainability. They also liaise with engineers and other consultants to address structural, mechanical, and electrical considerations.
6. Documentation and Specifications: The Build Designer prepares detailed construction documentation, including drawings, specifications, and schedules, to communicate the design intent and requirements to contractors and subcontractors.
7. Quality Assurance: Throughout the construction phase, the Building Designer conducts regular site inspections and quality assurance checks to monitor progress, identify any issues or deviations from the design, and ensure that construction meets the specified standards and requirements.
8. Collaboration and Coordination: The Building Designer collaborates closely with the project team, including architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors, to coordinate the implementation of the design and resolve any design-related challenges or conflicts that may arise during construction.
9. Project Delivery: The Building Designer plays a key role in overseeing the successful delivery of the project from concept design to completion, ensuring that the final built environment meets the needs of its occupants and complies with all applicable regulations and standards.
Luke Kelleher
Building Designer
0406 616 531
(w) www.lukekelleherdesigns.com
(e) [e-mail]

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