how should I approach the design and high level budget process?

Simon Blenkiron

5 months ago

how should I approach the design and high level budget process for our 5 x 3.5 m space

Liskeard Gardens, Blackheath · More Info

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Charles Barclay Architects
5 months ago
Are you remodelling an existing space or adding this to your house as an extension?

Assuming the latter, ballpark per square metre figures for small but high-end extension including fittings/finishes/architectural elements such as rooflight, bifold doors etc plus some internal remodelling of existing house likely to be £3 to £4k per square metre net build cost ie for 16.5m2 extension £49,500 to £66,000, plus professional fees and VAT.
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I like your plan, I would put an external door on the utility instead. and ideally get the boiler in there if you can. (boiler there more important than door- if its a choice) block up external door to office (not needed) put a cloak room under stairs and use the doorway space - access cloak room from under stairs. Just need to know where your external soil pipe is to confirm. i can recommend an architectural technician. (although you could probably sketch it yourself) he also does B.regs / project management as well, if required re the construction, over hand block build the party wall side. brick and block the rest, you will need a steel over the bifold if wider than 3.6m. cheaper option is to have larger french doors with fixed glazing either side, (then you may not need the steel.) you will need one for the internal partition. so delivering two easy as one i may be able to supply the easi joists and 18mm osb for the roof (bit of a small job) get your services (lights) up in there easily . 5m easy to span try and get a warm roof if poss. (insulation on top and then ur choice of roof covering) check heights when designing and submitting plans) cold roofs are a pain. good luck , happy to help Chris
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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
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how should I approach the design and high level budget process?

Comment (1)

Charles Barclay Architects

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