Akio Isshiki Architect is an architectural studio based in Akashi, Hyogo, Japan, working across new construction, renovations, and interior design. You do not need to have everything figured out before contacting us. Even if you are just beginning to think about your future home, we welcome you to share your ideas with us. Whether you have a clear vision or are still exploring possibilities, we are happy to discuss your project and help you find the right approach. Initial consultations are free. Please feel free to get in touch.

Design Process

Please feel free to contact us through the contact page. We will discuss your wishes and ideas for the project. You do not need to have everything decided at this stage. If needed, we can also assist with finding a site or property and help you understand the overall costs involved, working together with trusted local professionals. No fees are charged up to this stage.

Based on our discussions, we review the site or existing building, relevant regulations, budget, and other conditions to develop an initial design proposal.

Through detailed discussions and ongoing study of the proposal, we refine the design to reflect your needs and preferences. A preliminary cost estimate may be prepared when necessary.

Based on the approved basic design, we prepare the detailed drawings and specifications required for construction and for the contractor to prepare a final cost estimate.

We handle the necessary applications and approval procedures. In parallel, we request construction estimates from contractors and carefully review their proposals. When necessary, we adjust the design and discuss costs with the contractor to arrive at an appropriate construction budget.

During construction, we regularly inspect the work to ensure that the building is being constructed in accordance with the design. We also coordinate with the contractor and prepare additional drawings and details as needed to ensure that the design intent is properly understood and carried out on site.

Upon completion, we conduct a final inspection together with you and the contractor before handover. Even after completion, we remain available to answer questions and address any concerns regarding your building.

Design＆Supervision Fees

Our design and supervision fees are calculated primarily based on the total floor area of the project. We do not simply calculate our fees as a percentage of construction costs, as we believe that the value of architectural design should be assessed independently of construction costs. The final fee is determined according to the scale, type, and scope of the project, taking the overall budget, including construction costs, into consideration.

*For new-build detached houses: approximately ¥150,000–¥200,000 per tsubo (excluding tax), equivalent to roughly ¥45,000–¥60,000 per m².

Items Not Included in Design＆Supervision Fees

Site surveys, soil investigations, and other specialist surveys
Fees for structural engineers, MEP engineers, and other specialists
Government application, inspection, and permit fees
Travel expenses for projects in distant locations