If you are building a new home or converting your loft space you may need the services of a good architect. The following tips will help you decide if you need one and where to find a good one?
The role of an architect is to look at your new design project and identify any problems that may occur. This can save you time and money. They also have the experience to look at your designs and provide proposals where improvements can be made and the space utilised more effectively. This can also help to add value to your property.
However, the architect will need to fully understand your plans and what you want to achieve. Before you meet with an architect it is prudent to write out and forward them a project brief. This brief will outline:
- What you are proposing to change or extend.
- What is its purpose for example, is the primary objective to add space or value.
- Is the extension or extra space to be used for a specific purpose such as an extra bedroom or home office?
- Is access a priority? If the new space is to be used by your grandparents you may need to think about support railings or ramps for easy access.
- Will the proposed space be used for another purpose in the future? For example, if it’s a teenager’s bedroom it may not be long before they depart for college leaving an empty room. Therefore, can it be converted into something else at little cost and effort.
- Will the new design complement the existing structure or will you be adding a contemporary look to a traditional design?
- You’re spending budget.
Think this through and decide on the particular service you will require from an architect. You may want to have the architect to take full control of the project design or you can employ their services to provide the drawings and designs only.
There are many ways to find a good architect. The best way is through word of mouth. Ask family, friends or neighbours who have recently used an architect to design their new extension. Ask if they were satisfied with the quality of the service and if they encountered any problems. Also, have a look at their finished project just to make sure.
Once you have found a couple of architect firms set up a meeting with each of them to explain your project. This is a good way to get a feel for how well you could work together. Request a detailed quote with itemised costing. Before signing anything ensure you have an agreement in place that both parties fully understand.