Kitchen extension architect price

7 years ago

Hi All,

We are starting to consider having a kitchen extension (i.e. I'm constantly pestering my husband!!). I would like to involve an architect to maximize the design options and also try to avoid those silly things some builders might do to save time, but my husband believes this would cost a fortune (we live in London area and everything related with home development is incredibly expensive). Could you please share your experience if it was worth it having an architect and how much this would increase the cost of the project Thanks

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PRO

Earl & Calam Design and Build Ltd

7 years ago

I guess we would all like a good architect to design projects for us as the results can be stunning. The problem often lies with the budget which seem to be ever tighter. Architect costs 10% ish and often designs and specifies in a way that pushes the cost up. We price some architects projects, to then be told that the client has given them a budget much lower than the prices. Then things are cut back to suit the budget which is a shame. I guess if you go with an architect be very clear what your top budget is and be honest and stress the fact. we are finding more and more that people know what they want and need someone to execute it well. We generally start with taking people's wish lists, looking at their building and giving them an idea of budget and options . They can then make an informed decision on which way to go.

Comments (12)

PRO
Oasys Property Solutions
7 years ago
Firstly you have both made extremely valid points. An architect is undoubtedly going to create a fantastic design, but this comes at considerable cost, both in terms of their fees and potentially the materials they propose using in the build. A builder will suggest the easiest option, and you will most probably feel major compromises have been made.

As a property design and project management company, we can offer a turnkey solution, that pairs good design in a cost-effective way. By being involved from concept to completion, the client is confident that any design decisions are made with a consideration of implications to the budget. For example, whilst we would probably all love a completely open plan kitchen diner, this can take considerable effort (and hence £££) to achieve. However, there will most probably be a way to incorporate a steel or masonry column that greatly simplifies the structural loads and is far more cost effective. Obviously the placement of a column such as this is critical, and could not be accommodated in the centre of a dining area, but within a kitchen island could become a feature. Therefore this needs to be considered throughout.
Daisy England
7 years ago
A good experienced builder should be able to advise you. Regarding kitchen layout, do your homework. In my experience architects are not the best at kitchen design.
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We have just completed a similar project on our home in North London. Personally, I started with our local council - are you in a conservation area? this will impact the permissions that you need etc., You can also carry out searches of past planning applications to see what neighbouring properties had approved or not. A chat with your local planning officer normally costs nothing plus he/she will def know of other properties in the road/area that have had a similar project completed. I would try and do this before you commit fully to the house. You might be surprised, there are some roads/areas that will not allow side returns. You could also book an architect for a short session say 1 hour - more to discuss ideas and approach. Your research will tell you about permitted development, so you might not need full planning permission. In our case, due to the fact we are in a conservation area we needed full planning permission for a side return, party wall, structural calcs, building control etc., We viewed a number of projects completed by architects and turnkey co's specialising in side returns and decided that we could achieve the same if not better for a lower price. We used a builder that had done work for us before and we are very happy with the results. We paid for a couple of visits from our structural engineer at key stages of the project, which saved money and helped to manage risk. You could consider this route but it depends on your level of building experience. The best advice is not to be in too much of a hurry - take your time and really get the planning stages of your project right - especially the budget and end result you want to achieve before engaging any professionals.
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Architects aren’t only useful in terms of drawings. You may know what layout you want but what does this mean in terms of planning? Could you get it within your permitted development rights? Will you need planning permission? Hiring an architect gives you a professional able to answer all these questions. Not only that, any potential planning will be covered by the architect. Saving you time and money (planning permission appeals can get costly, very quickly). They'll also be able to assess your space and recommend how to get the most out of it - meaning you get the most for your money. They’ll also be able to advise on what other professionals / next steps you might need to look into, and put you in touch with the best ones, such as structural engineers and party wall surveyors. Without these, you may be looking at huge expenses in the future, if you’re project isn’t managed correctly. If you’re worried about unreasonable architecture fees, you might consider our services. We offer one transparent fee after giving you a free consultation. You can also get an idea of what the industry in general charges with this blog: https://resi.co.uk/advice/cost-and-planning/how-much-do-architects-charge
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My advice: Use your dining room for your table. I've looked at your kitchen layout and this is what I came up with: 1. about 35cm deep cabinet, 40cm wide 2. seating for 3 3. 90cm drawers 4. 60cm sink cabinet with pullout for trash 5. dishwasher 6. 90cm drawers (could add a 40cm wide upper cabinet above it for glasses and mugs, since this will probably be where your coffee maker will be) 7. 90cm drawers with 80cm induction cooktop and 90cm extractor hood (what kitchen style do you like?) 8. 50cm cabinet 9. tall cabinet with 102cm freezer and compact oven (with microwave function?) 10. tall cabinet with 178cm fridge And an extra window in the bedroom, because of the desk in that corner :)
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Mainly for coordination (contractors, structural engineers etc), some drawings or interior design. Architects do all those. If you think your project's simpler than that, a good builder should be ok, but you'll still have to manage them and make sure thay make what you want. If you need some refferences for good cotnractors let me know.
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Jonathan
7 years ago
You could look at using a concept planner such as OnePlan. This is a inexpensive way of exploring your options.
PRO
OnePlan
7 years ago
Thanks for the mention Jonathon!
We charge the same prices whatever your location ! Either an hourly rate from £35 per hour or fixed prices per area /rooms etc to suit - and we are more than happy to [pester] advise partners /husband's etc too !!
armenise_elena
Original Author
7 years ago
Thank you all for your suggestions. Apologies for the silly question: what is a concept planner and why is it different from an architect? OnePlan how do I contact you?
PRO
OnePlan
7 years ago
If you click on my name it will take you to my pro page on Houzz - there's a contact me button on my page ...
a concept planner is a bit different to an architect - we deal more with the internal bits rather than the build bits for a start ... if you have a look through some of our projects you will probably get more of a feel for what we do - on different levels - from sketch consults to room perspectives and panoranic views etc

[Nb we ere closed for the holidays at the moment - but am answering enquiries when they come in ( to avoid a backlog ) ]
ianthy
7 years ago
We completed a side return and kitchen extension earlier this year. I understand your thoughts about architects and fees - which will be in the region of 10%. Assuming your extension involves structural work - then you may require planning permission, building control and party wall. Likely you will be using a company to carry out these items, so this could save you some costs against using an architect. Another option is to pay an architect for a couple of hours to visit for advice only and talk thru your plans his/her ideas.
PRO
Home By Design Ltd
7 years ago
I'm more than happy to help out with the kitchen and utility design.

Drop us a message :)

Jade
PRO
Solid Furniture Design
7 years ago
Hi armenise_elena,

Please feel free to contact us if you need any help regarding your kitchen. We specialize in designing & manucafuring bespoke kitchens.

Kinds Regards,

A&S Kitchen Wardrobe
PRO
Croydon Window Company Ltd
7 years ago
Hi armenise_elena I agree that an architect will create a stunning design but can be cost effective, dependant on your budget. We work very close to a design and build company called Speargold, feel free to email your enquiry Brett Carpenter brett@speargold.co.uk, this is some examples of their work with our installations...
PRO
Home By Design Ltd
7 years ago
Forgot to say we work with a local architect called

Space Plus Planning Bristol- feel free to look Tamsin up shes lovely :)

Jade

Kitchen extension architect price

Earl & Calam Design and Build Ltd

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Oasys Property Solutions

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Kitchen extension architect price

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