Could I ask a reputable Architect to work with a modest budget

ame_28_1924

7 years ago

We moved house at end of March and have achieved the right location and improved space upstairs but everything else feels disappointing. The house seems solid enough but it has been lived in for 12 years and is ready for full refurb right through. Additionally, the ground floor does not have adequate living space for a family of four and lacks flow. We have come from a light, open plan family space to a small kitchen, tiny utility and tiny dining room and I am sure an architect could help us with the overwhelming task ahead but we only have a modest budget... Any guidance out there???

Featured Answer

nicolakwai

7 years ago

Having just completed an extension and renovation we found that our architect had no idea how much things would cost, he was great with design but we told him or budget and when quotes came in they were almost double the budget and he genuinely had no idea why!!! Very flustrating. I think I'd go to a builder for initial ideas on what you could do with your budget then maybe go back to an architect if you need planning etc.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (15)

PRO
OnePlan
7 years ago
Maybe contact a few newly qualified architects who are looking for projects to put into their portfolios ??
ame_28_1924 thanked OnePlan
ianthy
7 years ago
I notice architects offer services for design only - this could help you shape ideas about how you want to re-model the space. Then you could proceed on your own with your builder etc., It's a difficult challenge - money spent on services means less money spent on the house/furnishings etc., I have done 2 large house projects - the first a complete knock down and build and we could not have done it without our architect. Our 2nd and current project is a side return, I took advice on layout and design from an architect then proceeded on my own. Without doubt the side return has been more challenging and thankfully I am not working at the moment, so it has become almost a full time job trying to keep ahead of builder with sourcing materials and planning the next area of detail. I would suggest finding an architect where you like his/her work and they are local, then starting with by discussing your budget and what you are trying to achieve. A good architect should be able to demonstrate his/her value to the project.
ame_28_1924 thanked ianthy
Related Discussions
Bungalow plans, ideas needed for my architect
Q
Comments (121)
I have built-in closets under the eaves of an American Bungalow style house in three bedrooms. They measure about 6'x 4', and my son even has a bed in one that is slightly larger, but the ceiling height is between about 2 1/2 and just barely 5 feet, so they aren't as efficient as they can be. In the master, I moved the rod to the back wall (it used to be only the depth of a hanger from the door) and down to a height to hang shirts and jackets, a little over 3' up, and this freed up the two existing short rods on the sides that are set about 4 plus feet up from the floor--long enough for most dresses, skirts and suits and such. This sort of U shaped arrangement works pretty well and the corners are for boxed out of season clothes and a short revolving (sort of a wire Lazy Susan) shoe rack.
...See More
What would you like to ask an architect about?
Q
Comments (3)
Hi, reading all the info is scary and a bit off putting, but obviously realistic and 'need to know' stuff. I want to convert an existing building, near a canal and hump back bridge, where access is an issue. But I would like a modest single storey dwelling and haven't the budget to spend on plans prior to understanding if it is at all feasible. I had a quote from an architect for planning submissions and building regs for over £4000, I have no idea if this is good value for money for what they were quoting. Where do I start? Could you write a sort of "pathway" - first you do this etc. and a rough idea of min/max costs at each stage? If that possible? More examples on the main site of budget self builds or conversions and how much they cost would be great. Thanks for all the information so far, really useful app this.
...See More
Calling all inspired architects and designers. Help needed!!!
Q
Comments (15)
Good morning!, Well i've been at this one now for nearly 2 1/2 hours! One of the main problems is the entrance. I didn't want to incorporate the garage, as with a full house, outside storage is all important, I know just how much stuff we have in ours. I also kept in mind the your requirement for front to back access. Thus, i moved the entrance to the other side of the house ( garage side ), Hopefully when postie arrives he will naturally presume the entrance is on that side, ( i think you would! ) I split the kitchen / downstairs cloakroom to give you a much bigger cloakroom / downstairs shower room - don't know if you have dogs, but very handy for washing them and mucky kids without trapsing upstairs! This split area also gives you your Utility Room. ( However, you could have a smaller cloakroom and a bigger Utility dependant on your own requirements. ) Also, I extended slightly across the front to the left to make downstairs slightly bigger ( filling in the gap on the original plan ) - and give way to two reception rooms, so the front will be continuous with no set back. ( That part could be dependant on budget, as you could make do with a slightly smaller 2nd reception. ) So, some more planting in the front garden will ensure that you know there is no entrance on the left. Bearing in mind that a house full of kids / teenagers can be very noisy and that zoning would also be my preference, I put the two main reception rooms at the front, seperated them by a nice hallway and gave you a study / music / teenage den in the middle of the house, off the kitchen diner. The extension ( preferably full height to allow amendments to the upstairs ) gives the noisey heart of the home to the rear. If you do the full height extension it gives way further to a much larger Master bedroom suite, a family bathroom, and a seperate toilet / shower room ( All of that will be dependant on your budget. ) The build itself in my lowly opinion is infinitely do'able on your budget, where a lot of people go wrong, is that they just don't realise how much of the budget goes on refurbishing the internals, ( New Kitchen, bathroom fitting, flooring etc ) So keep a good chunk for that! Always get at least 3 quotations for the build, and try and get a fixed price one if you can. I hope that covers it, and that you can imagine what it looks like walking around the new layout. It's easy for the experts, but no so easy for the homeowner, as quite often you can get stuck on what things look like at the moment. Try and blank that out, and imagine a completely different house. Good luck x
...See More
Do I need an architect or a builder with design skills?
Q
Comments (5)
Hiring an architect may seem like an unnecessary expense, however, the right one can help you avoid hidden costs in the future and get the most out of your budget. For starters, an architect is best able to assess your space and get it working hardest for you. They’ll also give you an accurate understanding on the scope of work needed, so you can better plan out your finances. Not only this, they know the ins and outs of planning, meaning if you need it, they’ll be able to sort this for you ahead of time. Saving you time and money. If you’re removing a chimney breast, you’ll probably need a structural engineer. Again, an architect will be able to refer you to the best one for the project. Also, depending on your chimney, you could impact on a party wall. This could require its own set of planning, or even the recommendation of a good party wall surveyor. No matter the professional, at Resi, we try our best to put you in touch with the right people for the job. From CCTV surveyors, all the way to builders. If you’re still unsure about whether or not an architect is right for your project, feel free to book in a free advice call with our team: https://resi.co.uk/advice_calls/new
...See More
ame_28_1924
Original Author
7 years ago
Good point, I will make some enquiries. Thanks for taking the time to write, I appreciate it.
PRO
Westbury Garden Rooms
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
Good morning! Just thought I'd contribute too. We specialise in the design and build of garden rooms - the point of which is to bring light and space into your home. We have in house designers that can help come up with solutions for you which may include building an extension, or may just be introducing a roof lantern or other feature into your home which can improve your space and sense of wellbeing.

Take a look at what we do and if you're interested, give us a call on 01245 326 500.

Not trying to do a hard salesy thing here - I was just being nosey on Houzz and noticed your post. We're much more focused on making a home as good as it can be, than making a "sale". If you want to discuss, we can give you some pointers. If not, I hope you find a solution that works for you and your home. Good luck!
ame_28_1924 thanked Westbury Garden Rooms
Ali
7 years ago
This has absolutely been our experience too. Architects have been v misleading as to the cost of the build and designed great things which are completely unaffordable despite knowing the budget that they were designing to. Much better to decide exactly what you want and then talk to a builder about design and build (on small projects)
ame_28_1924 thanked Ali
PRO
OnePlan
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
It's a tricky one isn't it .... we have tried to turndown a project in the past because we felt an architect would be a better option for the client - it was a complete renovation and extension type project... But in the end agreed to do concept drawings so the project could be costed to see if it was viable. And also to see if they could get the rooms and some large items of furniture they wanted to use in the space that the changes could create. We agreed, with the proviso that the next step would be full architects drawings, before the start the project.
Not really the usual project we do - As we ARE NOT architects - but if someone wanted to check the idea they are hoping to achieve might be possible in theory - we could help too .
ame_28_1924 thanked OnePlan
PRO
User
7 years ago
Using an architect where possible will give you the reassurance that everything will be carried out in accordance with up to date regulations etc. We would accommodate clients as best we can in everything we do even budget. Be upfront when initially talking to architects tell them this is a project you want to take to a stage that will let you get initial costings from a builder before it grows arms and legs, this then in turn allows a level of evaluation for yourself before proceeding to the next stage.

Going direct to a builder with your budget is not always a sensible option as all they need to do is come under the figure you have disclosed. If going to a builder also be sure to check with your local authority or a local architect if what they are going to "build" does not require planning etc.

May I ask where your project would be?

FMA
ame_28_1924 thanked User
PRO
Oasys Property Solutions
7 years ago
I would echo pretty much all the above, which highlights numerous issues.

There is no disputing the benefit of a senior architect where money is no object, and you are in a position to appoint them to make regular site visits. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, and the initial design intent is lost, resulting in decisions being made by the builder that jeopardise the overall result.

Approaching a builder as the first point of contact carries considerable risks. As stated previously, they will tweak the budget to suit the figure you disclose at the quoting stage, and strive to maximise profit - during the build by using cheaper products (typically promotion at builders merchants, e.g. flooring).

Design and build companies often tend to be a general builder who has a relationship with a architectural technician who will draw up plans to suit the builder ... facilitating the project being completed in the quickest time, with the greatest profit. This will typically be achieved using bog standard products available at builders merchants. This may suit many, but perhaps the fact that you are even on this site suggests you maybe after something a little bit more special. The immediate example that springs to mind are doors/windows and kitchens; items that can be sourced at builders merchants, but by up-speccing slightly to independent sources will greatly enhance the finished result

I am a great believer that you do not require too many 'wow factors' in a space. Everyone's aspirations will differ, but common themes include maximising natural light and improving the flow. A good designer/architect will prise out what is important to the client, ensure these needs are addressed, and introduce elements the client wasn't expecting, e.g. lighting, storage. BEWARE! Some designers/architects may have aspirations to achieve awards, experiment with emerging products, or simply specify high-end products for every item, which may stray from the initial brief and completely break the budget.

I would suggest a young architectural practice may be most suitable for your project. The chances are they would be not only more cost-effective, but the designs more cost-sensitive (possibly having recent experience on their own properties). They would possibly be particularly keen to ensure the design intent is not lost by making more regular site visits to ensure they have high-quality projects as they build their portfolio.

Regards, Simon
ame_28_1924 thanked Oasys Property Solutions
ame_28_1924
Original Author
7 years ago
Hi all

thank you all so very much for your guidance and advice, it is greatly appreciated; some positive comments leading me toward the architect route and some cautions to watch budget and scope if I do!

Our project is in Lancashire and we have much research to do before we can make a start so, if anyone has any recommendations for architects or builders in the region, again it would be appreciated.

Best regards to all
PRO
Dub M
7 years ago
I would agree with most of what's been posted here. We have employed an architect to design a big renovation on house we've bought and the design is great but he took our budget and threw it straight out the window. At each stage of the design process we kept emphasising that a great design is pointless if it's not within budget. His first design was refused planning and was quoted €50k over our budget!!! I've been led to believe that this is v common with architects they take a budget as a ball park. Our builder has been excellent with lots of interesting ideas and designs to add but our project did need an Architect. My advise if you are not looking for a complex renovation would be to get some ideas and quotes from architects (they don't normally charge for a meeting) and see what they suggest. You can then approach a builder and see if they can achieve it within budget.
ame_28_1924 thanked Dub M
PRO
STUDIO PARKOAR
7 years ago
What is the budget .? Often it is possible to tailor the package required from your Designer/Architect to suit your budget . You need to be precise about what you need in terms of design or legislative advice...
ame_28_1924 thanked STUDIO PARKOAR
PRO
The Drawing Room Architects
7 years ago
An experienced architect will be able to work with your budget to ensure that you can get what you want for the budget available. If the cost is set in stone from the start then we would do our best to meet this! www.tdrarchitects.co.uk
ame_28_1924 thanked The Drawing Room Architects
PRO
Allister Godfrey Architects Ltd
6 years ago
I've just happened across this thread and would like to chip in for the benefit of future users of the site.

We try to ascertain a sensible budget from clients at the beginning of their housebuilding/renovating journey. It's never cast in stone but is a good starting point for everyone involved. Often we phrase the question as 'how much can you realistically afford to spend?' The question seems to provide a more honest, rather than idealistic, answer.

As experienced architects, we do have a reasonable handle on how much building costs. But, we aren't qualified cost consultants, so it can only ever be an estimation which we make our clients aware of. We can also be caught out; we recently undertook a pricing exercise for one of our clients and it had been six to eight months since we last had done a similar costing exercise. We had suggested a budget of around £150-£175,000 for a very small (modern) barn conversion. We were quite taken aback when three of the prices came in at around double the amount!

Whilst there is are a number of other factors involved here, there was no getting away from the fact that there was a significant increase in materials and overheads that happened very quickly. Thankfully, and working in tandem with our client we have found a contractor who isn't double our estimates.

With regards reputable architects and modest budgets, please don't start out thinking that architects are going to be too expensive for your project. Some will be of course, but the majority who work on home extensions on a day to day basis would, I hope, tailor their fees accordingly. In our practice, if a client is serious about wanting the best design and values the work we do then we are more than willing to offer upfront design advice on an hourly basis. As Oasys remark above not having an architect follow a project through to completion can lead to compromises in design and quality.

As with most things in life, compromises have to be made, which with building generally is centred around pricing. Paying a little bit extra for an architect's opinion, even at the outset of a project (and if it's only at the outset) will leave you better informed about where to spend your money wisely.
titiankim
6 years ago
I wondered how long you've been living in the new house? We moved into a 1930s house that had never been extended and wanted to get rid of the tiny kitchen, add downstairs loo, utility and storage. But for various reasons (new baby, needing to sell another property) we couldn't start work for a couple of years. During that time, I did a lot of research and our ideas changed (from living in the space, research and talking to other people). We ended up with a much better space (with a relocated kitchen - something we'd never considered initially). If your move has been very recent, and you intend to be there years, I'd definitely give it time - live in the house, see how it feels in summer and winter, if your neighbours have similar houses, see what they've done with the space. It's frustrating to wait, but at the end you'll probably find you have a clearer better fit the architect, concept designer or technician that you use to get your plans drawn up

Could I ask a reputable Architect to work with a modest budget

nicolakwai

Comments (15)

OnePlan

ianthy

Related Discussions

ame_28_1924
Original Author

Westbury Garden Rooms

Ali

OnePlan

User

Oasys Property Solutions

ame_28_1924
Original Author

Dub M

STUDIO PARKOAR

The Drawing Room Architects

Allister Godfrey Architects Ltd

titiankim

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US

Could I ask a reputable Architect to work with a modest budget

Comments (15)

Related Discussions

ame_28_1924Original Author

ame_28_1924Original Author

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US

ame_28_1924
Original Author

ame_28_1924
Original Author