Who do I need?

8 years ago

I'm about to move in to an ex-council flat in need of some work. The layout of the space on the ground floor is really awkward, and we want to remodel to make an open-plan living-kitchen area etc. There are some complications with pipes running through in odd places, a gas meter that is really inconveniently sited etc. And of course, we're not able to remove any structural walls, according to our lease. We'd like to get some professional advice, but do I need an architect, and interior designer, a structural engineer or just a builder? Any advice gratefully received!

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Comments (3)

Lauren
8 years ago
I'd suggest structural engineer to begin with. They can tell you the important stuff ie pipes, load bearing walls, health and safety etc. Don't jut bring in a builder and take their word for what's okay and what's not. In my experience if you speak to 3 builders you'll get 3 very different opinions.

Once you know the important stuff you can decide if you want to bring in an architect or designer to help realise your vision for how the space can look and work for you.
Susie thanked Lauren
Kerry Donnelly
8 years ago
Is say an architect, as almost any job they do will have to get input from a structural engineer, so they will know themselves what is going to be needed and will have worked with the structural engineer prior so will trust their judgment.
Susie thanked Kerry Donnelly
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PRO
Amber Jeavons Ltd
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Hello Susie,

If you can't make structural changes according to the lease, then perhaps a structural engineer isn't needed.. It entirely depends on what you want to do.. You should be able to see on the plans what is load bearing stud and what is partition.. If you wanted fully open plan or to move stairs then this is the kind of role for a structural engineer..but first work out according to the plans what you think the work you want to do involves..

Take a look at these first and then get an architect in to give you an idea.. Dependent on the size of the job will determine what other specialist help you require.. They will tell you if you need a S.E. It may be that you need neither architect or S.E and merely superficial changes which a builder can do and then get someone to advise you how to create the look you want...

Sounds too like you need a plumber in the first instance.. : ))
Susie thanked Amber Jeavons Ltd

Who do I need?

Comments (3)

Lauren

Kerry Donnelly

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