How to choose architect

5 years ago

We are hoping to extend our kitchen (side return/rear extension). So far we have met with two recommended architects.

The first architect is very reasonable and knowledgeable. I liked the fact he got what we are hoping to achieve: a light filled, open plan, socialising space, that’s draws your eye to the outside and incorporates our garden. My husband is practical and wanted to know about soil pipes as he is worried if we move it could disrupt our newly decorated bathrooms upstairs and be very expensive. The architect responded that we shouldn’t design around the soil pipe and he would come up with a solution. I really liked him.

The second architect (I couldn’t be there to meet with him). Seemed (from what my husband said) much more practical talking a lot more about the soil pipe, building regs, what the council would approve. Although I appreciate I want the space to be able to built, and for a certain price, I didn’t get the sense he wanted to build a beautiful space. I don’t really want to make the space bigger just to be able to have a bigger space - I want it to work for us. He talked more about the fact we would need to have some kind of pillars or posts to support the floor above (i thought it could be entirely open plan) but he said this wouldn’t get through building regs. He also didn’t tell my husband his fees but would “have to go away and think about it”. That seemed a little bit odd to me!

Any advice on the above or how to pick an architect would be great! We have asked for photos of their previous work. We don’t live in London and are keen to go with someone local.

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Comments (3)

PRO
Marian Latifa Designs
5 years ago
Hi Emily, I see the pickle you're in! I have no doubt that both the architects you have met would deliver a fantastic project for you. Firstly, it's an architects job to understand about all the nitty gritty stuff regarding building regs/ approvals and solutions to piping/ structural detail etc. So in that regard, even if architect no.1 wasn't as vocal about it, he will certainly know all this stuff. I do agree that it's extremely important when designing a social space that every element of the design needs to be considered, not just the structural elements. It's important that your extension design also meets the practical needs of how you will be living in that space. Have you considered hiring an architectural designer instead of solely an architect? Such professionals are qualified architects who specilise also in interior design. They would have the expertise to structurally design your extension with the interior flow at the forefront of the entire design. Or hire an interior designer alongside an architect so that their input is integrated into the structural design of the extension? However, if you want to chose between architect one or two, then go with the architect you feel understands your needs the most. This is a space you will most likely use the most in the house so get it right first time round! Good luck!
Tani H-S
5 years ago
We had two over as well. Both seemed very nice but the second one was recommended via networking group and seemed to get our industrial feel and also about the use of our Granny flat as part of the build.

We chose her just based on that as I think the fees may have been similar. However, it proved not to be a good choice unfortunately. She designed the build as we asked for but so over budget. Nothing was discussed after re the feel of the place and industrial elements. We weren't told about all the extra fees needed or party wall (which we could have organised at the beginning and been able to start work 2 months earlier!) and think when you are submitting work for planning that this should be a basic thing they discuss as not everyone is savvy.

She was also hard to get hold off and now the plans got passed, she has ignored all our e-mails for further info or queries with the bill. phew.

Wish we had gone with the other one now and not listening to general recommendations from people who hadn't actually used her.

I think when you get the pricing back from the vague architect, you need to meet them as well and discuss any minor issues you might have. Decide between yourselves in advance, what is the most important aspect to your decision ie design something beautiful, keeping in budget, knows about building regs and what is viable etc etc.
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PRO
User
5 years ago
Hi Emily,

I do see your dilemma and you are right to be cautious.

I see this situation with clients all the time.

FEES

I have been designing for 30 years and still find it difficult to discuss fees so I tend to get it out of the way as soon as possible. I don't charge for the first visit, its for me to see and understand the job and for the client to meet me and see if they like my ideas. (Never underestimate your gut feelings when you meet an architect/designer, the working relationship is crucial.) I put in a fixed fee in writing immediately after the meeting, if the client sees value in my fee I get the job, if they don't they have had the benefit of my advice and they can keep looking for the right person. This is the nature of the business.

ARCHITECT OR INTERIOR DESIGNER

This is more difficult than it sounds.

Ideally you need an interior architect, ie someone that understands interiors and has the knowledge to design the building around an agreed interior theme allowing for layout, lighting and aesthetic. (or an architectural practice that has an in-house interior designer)

Always ask to see their portfolio to ensure their work is to the standard you expect and that their style is suitable for your taste. If they can't show you this don't use them.

Always ask if they can illustrate their ideas, sounds obvious but its important.

Any extension or building alteration is a big investment for the client and as such the client should be in a position where they can see and understand exactly what is being suggested. Plans and elevations are great for technical solutions but this should be backed up with a 3D model so you can see the extension in relation to the house and also see the interior space with furniture so you can understand the layout, style and light quality.

SUMMARY

Employ someone you like and have confidence in.

See samples of their work.

Agree a fee you're comfortable with from day one.

Hope that helps.

Regards,

Martin

www.angel-martin.com

How to choose architect

Comments (3)

Marian Latifa Designs

Tani H-S

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