As construction delivery models grow more complex and design accountability tightens, specification writing is no longer a back-office task—it’s a strategic tool shaping project outcomes.  

For Brisbane-based Ellivo Architects, specification has become a way to hold design intent steady as projects grow in scale and complexity, not just a tool for ticking compliance boxes. 

ArchifySpec recently caught up with Matt Martoo, Director at Ellivo Architects, to hear how his team is navigating specification challenges and opportunities across an increasingly diverse portfolio. 

Martoo shares that Ellivo is currently experiencing one of its most varied years yet, working across sectors as diverse as retirement living, Build-to-Rent and golf and recreation projects. A particular area of focus has been deep research into downsizing and housing models that prioritise designing better places for people to live.  

“The Build-to-Rent sector, particularly around social and affordable housing, remains a significant focus for us,” Martoo says. “At the same time, the sport and recreation sector continue to evolve, with rising expectations for both design and amenity.” 

Ellivo Architects predominantly utilises SpeedSpec to maintain consistency and quality across projects. However, Martoo highlights that when projects involve Design & Construct contracts or Early Contractor Involvement (ECI), the approach becomes more collaborative.  

“We often work closely with contractors and trade partners to shape trade-specific scopes, ensuring alignment with the project’s intent and required performance outcomes,” he explains. 

Martoo says the way specifications are written often comes down to how a project is structured—and how early the builder comes to the table. 

“In collaborative contracting environments, traditional specifications often lose their effectiveness,” he says. “That’s where a structured, transparent documentation process is vital—it enhances efficiency and significantly mitigates risk.” 

As scrutiny across all stages of construction increases, compliance remains a major area of risk for architects.  

According to Martoo, the challenge isn’t just knowledge—consultants and contractors in Queensland generally demonstrate strong understanding of the NCC and Australian Standards—but in clear communication.  

“Poorly articulated specifications can lead to cost blowouts or even deter trades from tendering,” he says. “Clarity and simplicity are absolutely essential.” 

When asked how design studios can maintain creativity while managing specification risk, Martoo underscores the value of early contractor engagement. “It allows us to explain design intent clearly from the start,” he says.  

“There’s always more than one way to achieve a design outcome—specifications should describe flexibility without compromising on compliance.” 

Looking ahead, Martoo advocates for a more streamlined, visual approach to specification writing. “Early input into specification—particularly around key decision points—would make a big difference,” he suggests.  

“We need systems that are clear, consistent and easy to update. Specifications should be a tool for alignment, not a burden.” 

As the construction landscape evolves, specification is proving to be more than just documentation—it’s a live, working interface between design ambition and on-site execution. These conversations reveal its growing importance in maintaining clarity, accountability and momentum on increasingly complex projects.