What files should we have from architect?

2 years ago

We have just submitted a planning application. The design is not something we are absolutely sure about and we are keeping our options open but having taken a year and about £6000 to reach this stage we were sick of trying to flog a dead horse with the architect and decided to get it finished as best we could and put planning in. We were never happy with the initial concept design and what we thought we were doing by trying to get a concept that worked, he said was us agreeing to develop the concept. After a year of strained relationship with the architect we wont be getting them to do the detailed design if we do go ahead. We have not told him this yet until the planning process is concluded.

What should we walk away with in terms of files?

Any advice of anyone in a similar predica,ent would be great. Thanks

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Comments (4)

Jonathan
2 years ago
Personally I would recruit a designer or concept planner to explore your options and know what you are going to do before burning bridges with this architect.

Once you know what you want to do your options are to return to this architect with a very specific brief and hope the initial financial commitment isn’t all lost.

Alternatively (if you need revised planning permission) you get an architectural technician to draft new plans.

Or you can get a new architect…. If your ideas evolve and you end up with significantly different new plans you won’t need any of the work from the first architect.
HU-905046204 thanked Jonathan
HU-905046204
Original Author
2 years ago
Thank you Jonathan. During the process I do remember looking for a concept planner/designer as I wanted someone else to look at the floorplans on a consultation basis. I didn’t get anywhere. We struggle in our region.

Do you know how I would find someone?

Ive tried to keep things amicable with the architect so no bridges are burnt. I also dont think its unreasonable just to finish this stage and part ways without a big fallout.

Unfortunately we have lost trust due to some big ommissions and feel like we have been railroaded with the only concept that was put forward. We were confused about what stage we were at and questions were always answered vaguely.

If we got a new architect to do a new concept would we then be able to choose ? Would we be transparent about this with a new architect? I just feel that the original concept has been pushed to its limit and would like to see a different point of view. One which I think we should have pushed for at the beginning.

Thank you
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Jonathan
2 years ago
There are lots of designers and Concept planners who can explore the layout at a lower price point than the architect.

@OnePlan is a regular contributor to Houzz so you might want to look at her profile or message her.
HU-905046204 thanked Jonathan
PRO
RVI Architectural Design
2 years ago
Hello,

I have assisted a number of people out of similar situations over the years and happy to have a chat, if you would like? www.rviad.com

Here's an example of a reworked plan that solved a number of problems.
Surrey Hills · More Info

What files should we have from architect?

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What files should we have from architect?

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Jonathan

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