Pete I am North London (Islington borough) and went ahead with mine, finished just over a year ago and it’s changed the flat entirely, so happy I did it. Layout similar to the plans in original post but larger kitchen. If you have an idea of layout you want I’d recommend trying to find a junior architect or go with some sort of basic pack option. Architect fees were way more than I expected and unnecessary for me. I found my original suggestion was the best option anyway and despite agreeing a planned budget it was way over spec’d resulting in tenders out of my reach. I ended up finding a very well priced builder myself using mybuilder.com who still worked to fixed fee contract, came in significantly cheaper than lowest architect tendered builder. Speak to your neighbours before Party Wall letters go out, you are about to disrupt their lives for 3 months or so, worth having them on side :) Try and pick/plan the small things as early as possible - you can’t imagine the ridiculous amount of stress you feel having to pick and order kitchen cupboard handles out of the millions of options there are when the builders are ready for them now! Good luck!

I was the same about 5 years ago in that when I was searching online I could only find big architect firms which isn't what I wanted. I think a lot of the smaller technicians get business by word of mouth. Our builders recommend the guy the work with and we have gone on to use him again. Also try your local planning dept as they often have a list. I would say that if you're not exactly sure what you want a architect or designer is better than a technician. Have you looked on some pro pages here around your area?

I would be really cross if I were planning a simple extension on the back, the architect quoted one price then said it would cost significantly more to include a simple side extension on the drawings that he was going to have to do anyway. I understand that there is additional calculations involved with two structures but find it hard to justify so much extra..... I think it is good that you have had this conversation at this early stage before he has started the bulk of the work. You might consider an alternative arrangement where you get a designer to work up the concept then get an architect or an architectural technician to complete the technical stuff at a lower cost. All this assumes that the site is uncomplicated. Clearly if there are complex issues with ground works, local planners, if the design is particularly innovative using non standard building work then you may feel it is best to stick with one person and feel that the work is protected.

Have you recently found a property you like, but feel as though something is missing? Maybe an extension or loft conversion could turn it from a house you ‘like’ into a home you love? But you’re feeling unsure when it comes to costs? We are here to provide Budget Costs to clients that are interested in a property and are looking to receive a ballpark cost for the proposed changes. It’s understandable that potential new homeowners can’t quite justify an architect’s fees when their buying decision hangs in the balance. We recently received instruction from a client in this exact position! They were seeking some guidance on costing up a concept extension, loft conversion and remodel for a house which he and his partner were interested in buying. They needed a professional opinion on the feasibility and rough cost of what it was they wanted to achieve, in order to feel confident as to whether the property was worth purchasing. Having provided us with some simple plans and site photos, we were able to confidently provide them with a budget cost, leaving them comfortable and sure they could create their dream home! 'My partner and I are wanting to buy a property which requires significant work to make it what we want it to be. The team at Nest were able to provide just what we were looking for in a detailed breakdown of anticipated costs which will go a long way in helping us determine if its worth taking the plunge on the property in the first place. Money well spent!' - Mr Chambers Contact us at hello@nestestimating.co.uk / 02380 972 016 www.nestestimating.co.uk