This exciting new course covers: What an architect's role is in the building industry; provides expert guidance to a better design for aesthetic, function, and energy efficiency; discusses cost saving in a good design; touches the law- knowing how and who can build; the Development Application process - knowing how the authorities work, how to save time and money; understanding the construction phases to minimize the anxiety, how to meet the budget, and to save the overall cost; which contract to achieve a better outcome; the importance of contract administration by the architect during construction; all about maintenance, immediate and ongoing to protect the value of the property.

Build, Extend or Renovate

Course Description

Thinking of building your dream home, extending your space, or finally renovating that outdated kitchen? 

This practical short course will guide you through the entire domestic building process, from your initial idea through to completion. 

Led by a practicing architect with over 35 years of experience, you'll gain insider knowledge on how to bring your project to life, whether you’re managing it yourself or working with professionals. 

With a focus on making informed decisions, understanding key steps and avoiding costly mistakes, this course empowers you to move forward with confidence.

Whether you’re at the early stages of planning or already exploring options, you’ll benefit from expert guidance on everything from planning and approvals to budgeting, contracts and working with consultants. 

Each week builds your knowledge with real-world advice, tips for avoiding common pitfalls, and strategies for achieving the best outcomes while sticking to your budget. 

It’s an ideal course for anyone looking to improve their home and maximise value through smart, practical design.

Course Structure

The course begins with a broad overview of Australia’s domestic building environment and how it has evolved. 

In week two, students will learn how to translate ideas into achievable plans, with guidance on design choices and functional outcomes. 

Week three focuses on navigating the regulatory environment, exploring how council approvals, PlanSA, consultants, and industry bodies like CITB fit into the process. 

The final session is all about practicalities including budgeting, understanding contracts, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and steering clear of common renovation and building pitfalls. 

Across all sessions, students benefit from the architect’s decades of insight and real-world experience.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the overall structure of Australia’s domestic building environment
• Turn renovation, extension or new build ideas into practical plans
• Navigate the approval process with councils and PlanSA
• Identify the roles of consultants and industry bodies in the building process
• Recognise key contract terms and budgeting essentials
• Avoid common building and renovation pitfalls
• Explore ways to reduce costs without compromising quality
• Make informed design and planning choices to suit their goals
• Understand how to manage or collaborate effectively with professionals
• Approach their project with increased confidence and clarity.

Your tutor is Norman Sheun.

Norman Sheun FRAIA is a professional architect and has a Fellow status with the Royal Australian Institute of Architects.  

Sheun graduated from the University of Adelaide with a Bachelor Degree of Architecture B.Arch. in 1988.  

He gained his professional SA Government architect registration in 1990 [SA Architect reg. #2141] and established his Practice in 1991.   

Throughout his professional career of 34 years, his works have included residential housing, government & institutional buildings, and commercial developments.  

One of his most significant projects is the Brighton Jetty & Telstra CMT Tower, at Brighton SA, in 1996.   

Sheun has extensive experience in design, project strategy, and technical & economic building knowledge.