Architects/Builders - how can I achieve this exterior change?
HU-817715823
4 years ago
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HU-817715823
4 years agolast modified: 4 years agoRelated Discussions
Could I ask a reputable Architect to work with a modest budget
Comments (15)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...See MoreDo I need an architect?
Comments (12)There seems to be a gulf of misunderstanding between the architectural profession and clients. It is clear to (good) architects that a good architect will transform any project and the cost of that service will bring enormous value to the client. However, there any many non-professionals who haven't trained for 7 years that are all too willing to offer a service which is perceived by the public as being very similar only at a lower cost - unfortunately this couldn't be further from the truth. A builder won't help you as he is likely to be looking at any project from his commercial perspective and anyway he is unlikely to have any design training. A technical service will be able to produce plans, but not architecture or great design, therefore a good architect is the obvious solution. However, selection of the right architect is just as important as we do not all do the same thing; it is most important to find someone whose work matches your style and that you can build a great working relationship with, rather than an architect who gives the lowest quote. We do not do this type of project, but concentrate on complete new homes - especially paragraph 55 homes. I hope that this advice is of use and that you find a great architect to work with....See Morearchitect design & specifications Vs builders
Comments (5)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...See MoreHelp! Tendering for builder quotes..... getting nowhere fast!
Comments (8)Thanks Jonathan, good to hear that our budget doesn't sound way off! We know we're in a pricier part of the country, but have been shocked at the quotes received so far. I didn't think our design was that elaborate! We have one steel where we are opening up the back of the house to push the kitchen out, plus a vaulted ceiling there with a couple of Velux windows. Our plan includes a couple of new french doors, but not bifolds or anything, so no major glazing costs. One things that could push costs up is our extension roof as its a slightly odd design (flattened a bit at the apex) due to jobsworth planning officer. We were also hoping to have it vaulted with one Velux, so there may be costs there with insulation, wiring, beams etc, although the engineer didn't think a ridge steel was necessary. There are no major plot limitations or access issues. We do need our existing tandem garage demolishing, plus removal of possible asbestos roof and moving the manhole to the new side passage. We also know that one corner of our new kitchen will need deeper foundations due to our leylandii hedge (which we'll probably remove at some point anyway!) - we've already had a fruit tree removed so it didn't impact the other side of the foundations. We have also asked for under-floor heating in the kitchen and know that we'll need to move/replace our boiler and possibly have a new consumer unit. We also asked them to quote for a couple of "extra" bits, like replacing the existing ancient front windows to match new ones, refitting current family bathroom, and stripping out some ugly wood cladding in the hallway. So I guess there are some issues and extras there which we need to explore further..... but we thought we had allowed for some of them by setting our budget around £100k and holding £50k back for spec decisions and unforeseen bits and bobs. We will definitely be speaking to the first builder who quoted £155k ex kitchen and bathrooms, as his quote was the most thorough and we had a good feeling about him. I think perhaps there can be some further discussion with him around costings and where we could make savings (or put things off until a later date). We were keen to get all quotes in before entering discussions, but the remaining two are taking an age..........See MoreJonathan
4 years agoJonathan
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4 years agoHU-817715823
4 years agoVerity & Beverley Ltd
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Verity & Beverley Ltd