Where do I start?
When you first decide to undertake a project on your home, there are numerous questions that arise. Some of these will, in the overall scheme, have only a minor affect (which paint should we to choose?) and some will be major decisions (shall we move the kitchen?) and have far ranging effects (shall we take out the back wall of the house?) It is our role at Drawing Inc to guide you through these areas but to also ensure that you haven't missed anything either.
Do I really need an architect?
In many ways the answer to this question is probably no.
You can probably get the number of that builder that your brother in law used - he seemed ok and he probably knows someone who does architectural drawings on the side and can get you you planning permission.
This is definitely a valid approach if your brother in law used them, then he will give you a recommendation and you can see their work, then great, a recommendation is always a good thing however, does that answer all of your questions? probably not!
If not an architect then who?
The builder - this is the person who is going to actually construct the building - the theory is that they must know what they are doing but thats not necessarily going to help you with planning or design advice.
An architectural technologist - this is a person who is trained in the art of construction and although not a fully qualified architect does fulfil many of the same functions (but usually just without the insurance!) If its straight forward design then an architectural technologist or technician or assistant may well be able to help.
A structural engineer - This person is an engineer and so if you are considering structural work then they may need to get involved anyway - you wouldn't usually go to an engineer for design ideas but for practical calculations and advise on steel or concrete then this is the person to speak to.
An interior designer - if the works are to be limited renovation and or decoration then bringing in an interior designer might be just what is needed to add that flair and colour to a scheme, but bear in mind they probably wont be able to advise you if that wall is load bearing etc..
A quantity surveyor - if it all comes down to the money then a quantity surveyor does exactly what it says on the tin - a person who calculates and counts the quantities and breaks the works down into a complex spreadsheet of materials and labour.
So what does an architect do ?
In its simplest terms, the architect is the person responsible for the design of a building and they ensure that it is built correctly and to the current standards. The Architect’s role is to hold the hand of the client and advise them on how to proceed with a project. This can include;
determining the feasibility of a project,
discussing potential designs and discussing the options that are available in terms of layout, materials etc.,
developing an approved design - both internally and externally,
where applicable applying for planning and building regulation approvals,
taking the approved design forward and ensuring its buildability, construction methods, draft programme, costings, etc.,
helping to source contractors and secure quotes from them,
managing and giving guidance regarding the construction phase.
Services are generally provided in relation to the RIBA plan of work which highlights the main phases of work to be carried out and identifies the different tasks within each phase.
A quick word about the law!
Please bear in mind that only a person who is fully qualified and registered can call themselves an 'Architect'. Anyone purporting to be an architect should be able to show you their registration with the Architects Registration Board (ARB.). You can also check this yourself using the ARB register.
There is no requirement for an Architect to join the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) but this also assists in confirming an Architects qualified status. (the RIBA also provide a referral service)
Unlike European countries, in the UK, people are not obligated to use an architect and anyone is allowed to design a building and submit it to planning application etc..
How can I help?
If you managed to get this far then I congratulate you and if you want to know what I can do to help click here