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Design Dilemma Polls Renovating

architect design & specifications Vs builders

Birmingham Thinks

5 years ago

some errors here, but we want to close the dinning room, and move the kitchen entrance to the lounge (open plan), a friend is offering full architecture plans and specifications, but can we afford it, or does it pay for itself by making the renovation more efficient.

architectural plans and specifications are essential

it is simple goal which builders can do without detailed 3d plans etc

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Comments (5)

Jonathan
5 years ago
I don’t think you need plans for a builder because this alteration is not complex.

I suspect that being ground floor you won’t have issues with fire regs so I don’t think you will have to provide plans for the council. (But do check)

Lastly you will likely need freeholders permission. Likely they will want a structural engineers report not plans.
PRO
ARC Bespoke Interiors
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
i feel regardless a complex or not complex alterations, plans are very important, its a finalisation of an idea/design which is agreed between parties and it gives the builder exactly what the customer wants, where,what ,how, otherwise with out 1, idea's will be thrown left right and centre, its not good for the builders and customers as changing idea does result in back log of work and waste of time and money,sometimes.

if the flat is in the ground floor make sure the ceilings, partitions walls have fire prove plaster boards (i would install 2 layers of plaster boardson the ceilings) 60 min fire resistance,and fire alarms and fire rated doors
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PRO
Create Perfect
5 years ago
I agree with both.

Plans can be very important and can save on massive things like time, costly mistakes and mis-communications.

However.. this doesn't seem like very complex project (as Jonathon says) so I wouldn't think they would be required / be essential. I would look at what is involved in the job with the builder first, how well you work together and judge if they are needed to ensure it run smoothly - i.e have you worked with the builder before? does he usually work from plans?

Lastly, even if you do need plans the normal fee's of an architect are not always the cheapest. If you know what you require and what is involved and purely need them for measurements for contractors to work to (to ensure door positions are as you would like and so on) and to ensure you ideas are put across correctly.... then an architect technician or concept planner (like me) would be cheaper. It then comes down to how good the 'mates rates' are that they have offered you.

Best of luck with your project, Gina
nobleseneb
5 years ago
With all due respect to builders, an architect will probably provide a more elegant and aesthetically pleasing concept. In my limited experience I've found that craftsmen (tilers, plumbers, electricians etc etc) have been great at doing their job - but clear guidance is essential.

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