What is critical when choosing an architect?
You should choose an architect whose work you admire. A good architect should be able to listen and seek to understand your wants, needs and aspirations. It is important that they share your vision and you will trust them to create a design for your home.
What happens during our initial meeting?
To set off on the right foot we ask you to provide a few details about yourself and the project on our website contact form. We then review the information and contact you to schedule a 20 minute free discovery call. During this call we will talk about the feasibility of your project, based on your anticipated budget, schedule and scope. We’ll also discuss next steps to bring your design to reality.
What kind of projects do you work on?
The practice specialises in private residential work predominantly focused on extensions/renovations. We also love crafting designs for bespoke one-off new build homes.
What are your fees?
Our costs will always depend on the type of project and the level of involvement you require. It would be misleading to quote figures without knowing the project details. Generally, our fees are either priced on a modest percentage of the anticipated build cost or a lump sum, which is calculated based on our involvement. This ensures the client has cost certainty from the start of the project.
What services do you provide?
In considering the many different facets of a project we have three initial service options for you to choose from. The variations between these packages are dependant on our involvement and the inclusion/exclusion of services. This may be photo realistic computer generated images, bespoke furniture and storage designs. Whatever your needs we are more than happy to work with you to find the perfect option for your needs.
Do I need to involve other professionals?
More than likely, yes. We will advise you on the required steps to ensure compliance with the law relating to construction work and the need (where necessary) for specialist advice. We can recommend professionals we’ve worked with on previous projects and will liaise with them to deliver a compliant scheme.
What is permitted development?
There are a number of domestic extensions that can be carried out on your home under permitted development. This is a government scheme that entitles some homeowners to expand their home without the need for a full planning application. For this certain conditions will need to be met. The government’ s planning portal has an interactive guide that shows you exactly what falls within permitted development rights.
How long does it take to get planning permission?
The length of the planning stage depends on a range of factors. The size, scale and complexity of the project all play a part. Generally for straight forward projects, we recommend clients allow around 8-10 weeks for planning. For more complex projects and for new builds we recommend allowing for several months.
How will you ensure we keep to our budget?
To keep control of costs from the outset, we will talk about costs early and often. We will be upfront with you so you aware of choices that are likely to increase the budget. In this case, we will offer cost effective alternatives. Early involvement of a Quantity Surveyor (QS) can assist with cost control. This involvement may be for a full service of something more discreet in the form of an initial cost model. Which would be produced at the end of concept design to help forecast and scrutinise where money is being spent. This can be used to help identify opportunities for savings. Strict vetting of contractors to ensure quality, reliability and value for money.
What is the difference between Planning Permission and Building Regulations approval?
Planning Permission covers the principles of a development by assessing whether the development will be in accord with local and national policies. It will also assess whether it would cause unacceptable harm to neighbours amenities. Building Regulations cover the structural aspects and progress of a development throughout construction. The difference between the two processes is that when you apply for Planning Permission you’re seeking permission to undertake the project development. When you make a Building Regulations application, you’re seeking checks and approval of the details of your development in compliance with construction standards.
How can find a good builder?
It is essential to choose builders with proven skills and expertise to match your expectations to deliver your desired results. In our experience the majority of builders are professional and co-operative but we usually recommend tendering out to 3-5 builders to assess their credentials.