Our Process

Six stages built around your project.

Whether you're an architect at concept stage, a builder about to break ground, or an owner who wants certainty at handover — our process is designed to meet you where you are and move forward with confidence.

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The AT Process

A process built for confidence at every stage.

Engineering precision meets real-world pragmatism. Every stage has clear deliverables so you always know what you're getting, when you're getting it, and what comes next. Not at the start? We can join at any stage — see the Catch-Up options below.

01 Connect Discovery & Partnership Charter +

Before systems, comes strategy. In a focused discovery session, we unpack your project goals — performance targets, occupant needs, site constraints, and energy ambitions — so we can design mechanical systems that genuinely fit.

  • Draft Project Brief + Outcomes Canvas
  • Timeline and delivery map
  • Early feasibility insights
  • Envelope risks & system concepts
Start here if: You're a new client, an architect early in the design process, or a builder seeking a mechanical partner before tender.
02 Concept Options, Scope & Design Parameters +

We develop 2–3 system strategies with clear performance notes, budget ranges, and compliance implications — so you can choose the right approach before any design is locked in.

  • 2–3 design options for ventilation, heating & cooling
  • Duct routes, plant zones & acoustic considerations
  • Compliance snapshot (NCC, NatHERS)
  • Budget range estimates & system comparison matrix
Start here if: You have concept or DA drawings ready and want to lock in your mechanical approach, coordination, and budget early.
03 Consult Detailed Design & Documentation +

We translate the agreed strategy into fully coordinated, buildable documentation — detailed enough to de-risk construction and clear enough for every trade to follow.

  • Performance Report with airflow loads & equipment selections
  • Coordinated plans, sections, schematics & specifications
  • Noise & airflow modelling, filter grades, grille selection
  • Constructability review & QA milestones
Start here if: You've chosen a system direction but need clear, buildable documentation before construction begins.
04 Contract Delivery with AT-Certified Teams +

We engage vetted contractors and manage delivery under a structured QA framework — so the quality on site matches the quality on paper.

  • Full contract pack: scope, exclusions, site kickoff, programme
  • QA milestones & clear variation protocol — no surprises
  • Progress reports with site photos & compliance checks
  • As-built updates & commissioning readiness sign-off
Start here if: You're ready to mobilise on site and want trusted contractors, quality assurance, and site governance under control.
05 Commission Test, Balance, Verify & Sign-Off +

Performance is proven, not assumed. We test, tune, and certify that the installed system delivers exactly what was designed — before handover, not after.

  • Commissioning test sheets, tuning data & certification
  • Completion checklist & final walkthrough
  • Owner handover guide: getting the most from your system
Start here if: Your system is installed and ready for testing and independent performance verification.
06 Completion & Aftercare Digital Handover & Ongoing Support +

A clean, complete close-out with everything the building operator needs — and optional ongoing support to keep the system performing as designed.

  • Digital handover pack (as-builts, photos, warranties, O&M manuals)
  • AT Performance Certificate
  • Optional post-occupancy review at 3–6 months
Start here if: You're closing out a build or inheriting a finished project that needs documentation and performance verification.

Catch-Up Options

Joining mid-project.
Closing the gaps.

Projects don't always start with a blank page. Air Theory can join at any stage — whether you need a rapid discovery to align direction, a design assurance review mid-project, or commissioning support at the end.

Missed Connect?

We'll run a Rapid Discovery to align direction and identify what's needed to move forward confidently.

Joining at Contract?

We'll lead with a Design Assurance Review to protect delivery quality before work begins on site.

Need Commissioning Only?

We'll audit readiness and independently verify performance before handover.

Inheriting a Build?

We'll assess, document, and close out cleanly.

Not sure which stage you're at?

Book a 30-minute call and we'll work out where to start — and which service package matches your project.

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