Am I expecting too much from my architect at this stage?

8 months ago

Hello, we paid an architect to carry out a measured survey, produce existing floor plan and two design options for an internal remodel. We then refined this into a final design. A large scale drawing with measurements was also included, but I noted that some measurements of walls and doorways was incorrect. We were told it didn't matter at this stage, it was just indicative, and the next stage would be more detailed. But I expressed concerns that we couldn't be sure of the feasibility if the correct measurements weren't used. I'm also somewhat confused why a drawing with labelled measurements was produced if the values used for existing structures are just made up values. Am I unreasonable to expect these to be correct at this stage?

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Comments (7)

PRO
User
8 months ago
Hello, well, the architects normally do a drawing (should be with exact measurements), but then what they do is they say, the building need to re-measure, as well as structural engineer or if steels involved then the steel manufacturer/supplier needs to double check. But to cut this short, the measurements should be precise, otherwise no point of doing any kind of drawing.
HU-670263253
Original Author
8 months ago
Thanks. That's pretty much what I thought. Feel a bit like I've just paid Bob down the pub to draw a doodle on a napkin. Annoyingly, I think with the simplicity of the job, an architect was probably not who we needed anyway. So we seem to have gotten off to an expensive and rather pointless start!
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PRO
User
8 months ago
So what kind of remodel are we talking about? Is it something structural (removing load bearing walls)? What you probably need is a floor plan (existing, and 2 options as you mentioned). To discuss this with a builder whether this the new layouts are possible and then to confirm that with an structural engineer. When the works start the builder's work would need to be checked by the building control anyways and on completion you would get a certificate from the building control that all is safe and built up to the current building regulations. Basically what we always do, is to provide floor plans if none created by the client or architect, we calculate how much would that cost, we get it confirmed by the structural engineer and then can crack on with the project (and during the project building control checks whether all is great)
HU-670263253
Original Author
8 months ago
That is very very helpful!! Yes, it's removing the rest of a load bearing wall (half is gone already for an existing extension) and then some new partitions. Am I best finding an independent structural engineer (I think some building companies have ones they work with?). And will I need to get new floorplans done if they're slightly inaccurate in placed?
PRO
User
8 months ago
New measurements would need to be taken - floor plan to be adjusted for sure, as even the structural engineer would need a floor plan. If you wish, check out our website: www.raalondon.co.uk and we also have our own structural engineer. We carry out general refurbishments, conversions, renovations, new-builds. So can definitely help you, if you are interested (depending on where you live :)
HU-670263253
Original Author
8 months ago
Thank you. We're South London/Surrey so will definitely take a look at your page. Thank you so much for your time 😊
PRO
User
8 months ago
We are currently working in Knaphill and Guildford, so if you wish to come and have a look at our projects, please feel free to let us know. Probably the easiest way to contact us is via whatsapp: 07376945912. Thank you :)

Am I expecting too much from my architect at this stage?

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Am I expecting too much from my architect at this stage?

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