our approach

we design so that materials, components and resources are used practically, economically and sustainably -this applies equally whether a new building or a renewal/extension.

 

We listen, discuss and test options with you, ongoing as needed, building the design of your project from a process of briefing, communication and feedback until we arrive at the point where we can review the journey and agree that the final design is the right solution for your budget, brief and stakeholder needs.

We believe in a collaborative design and building process -we’re pragmatic and hands-on and think that our designs should be able to be built using local trades and materials wherever possible.

Great design does not have to be at the expense of economy and practicality -investment in smart, focused architectural design is always a highly-effective long-term asset strategy, whether you’re an owner-occupier, developer or property manager. Buildings may exist for their users, but also require ongoing whole-life capital input beyond initial investment -our buildings are designed to recognise not only occupants’ needs but also their ownership, maintenance and management structures.

Quality Management

Dock4 maintains an ISO 9001: 2015 certified Quality Management System (QMS). This is focused on our clients’ needs and expectations by identifying individual project requirements and utilising a collaborative, systematic and thorough process throughout design and delivery.

Government Prequalifications

  • Victorian Government Construction Supplier Register (CSR) -prequalified ID 902476.

  • Tasmanian Department of Treasury & Finance -prequalified to $15M.

Insurances & Policies

We hold the following insurances:

  • Professional Indemnity -$10M

  • Public Liability -$20M

  • Workers' Compensation (Tas) & WorkCover (Vic)

We have accredited policies covering:

  • Workplace Health & Safety (WHS).

  • Designing in accordance with the Duties and Responsibilities of designers under Section 28 of the OH&S Act 2004.

We have internal Dock4 policies covering:

  • Human Resources (HR) -the effective management of our Dock4 people.

  • Culture and Relationships (CR) -the effective curation of staff welfare, job satisfaction and interpersonal relations for Dock4 people.

  • Covid-Safe work practice.

Sustainability & Inclusivity

  • We aim to reduce the environmental impacts of constructing, refurbishing and operating buildings and facilities. See our Sustainability Policy here.

  • We actively support equity, inclusivity and diversity through ‘universal design’ (UD) principles, See our Inclusivity Policy here.

Industry recognition and design excellence

Dock4 is an award-winning practice, with awards and commendations at State level. Our work has also been published in Architecture Australia, House and Green magazines. We aim to create beautiful, practical and responsible architecture -good design shapes our engagement with one another and the world around us and the practice of architecture should be driven by respect.

We are particular industry leaders in the design and delivery of sports facilities, with numerous successful sports pavilions and centres across Victoria and Tasmania over the past 10 years, from modular designs to refurbishments to major new facilities. We particularly focus on inclusive design: eg accessibility and female-friendliness -our work sits at the forefront of sports facility design and we help our clients lead in this.

We are A+ Members of the Australian Institute of Architects

Consultant Team

As a head consultant we have significant experience in managing and co-ordinating multidisciplinary teams, from Structural engineers to Building Surveyors to Access consultants. We are committed to promoting innovative and creative thinking from our consultants to align with our own values.

Most of our consultants have worked with us on numerous projects over many years, and we can help you assemble the right team for your project.