Micah / Architecture is the work space of me, Micah Rickards
I approach architecture as a creative and practical process — shaped as much by constraints and construction realities as by ideas.
With hands-on experience from my own self-build project, Walker Box, I understand the pressures and decisions clients face along the way. This grounded perspective informs how I design, communicate and work alongside builders and consultants throughout a project.
Smaller projects live by their attention to detail. I create thoughtful, well-crafted spaces that respond carefully to their context and to the people who live in them.
This approach is best reflected in the experience of clients:
“Our beautiful new home is a testimony to Micah’s creativity, his understanding of our needs and his ability to work seamlessly with the building team”
Philippa, Westport
Credit: Nam Tran (2026) Park Mews Urban Exploration
Process and Design
Every project is unique, so my approach and fee structure is tailored to the size and complexity of your project.
First Meeting
A relaxed, no charge & no-obligation chat to:
Explore your ideas and goals
See possibilities for your project
Decide if we’re a good fit
Pre-Design & Interview
The backbone of the project. In 5–8 hours, I work to:
Clarify and refine your needs with an in-depth Q&A session
Create a roadmap outlining milestones, consultants, and approvals
Set fixed fees for early design work; later design phases use a time or percentage range, finalised once preliminary design is complete.
Full Architectural Design Service
A fully guided process from first ideas to completion, including:
Concept Design → Consent Documents
Approvals
Tendering
Site observation
Total fees including site observation typically range between 10–18% of the expected build cost. This gives a rough guide for budgeting, but your fee is tailored to your project.
Small projects, like a bathroom or kitchen, don’t always fit neatly into a percentage. Fees are calculated according to the work required, ensuring clarity, care and good value.
Understand the process before we start
Grab our free flow chart and get a clear overview of the design process.