We’d like to think that as architects we’re more than just another service provider.  We aim to bring something a bit more personal to your project.  

Building projects, whether that is home extensions or new builds are fraught with pitfalls, whether it’s planning issues, land issues, design aspects or budget. It can be a testing time. Our focus always remains on the end goal and helping you to achieve your dream.

Setting your goals

Before discussing your project with any architect, it’s a good idea to have a summary of your goal – starting with any changes you want to make to your current property for example or if it’s a new build what the ultimate objectives and vision are. The more detail you can give your architect, the easier it will be for them to address your specific needs.

Questions to ask yourself about your project goals

• What do you want to change about your current space?
• What are your aims for your project?
• What does success look like?
• How much time can you personally dedicate to the project?
• What is your budget?

Selecting your architect

It’s always great to get a personal recommendation for something like a build project but in the absence of this there are plenty of things you can do to get the confidence to choose the right architect.

Have a look at their portfolio of work and check their style or specialisms – are they in keeping with your type of project?  It might help to ask them to tell you what makes them different and why you should choose them. This may be particularly helpful if you’re finding it hard to choose between several different architects.

It goes without saying that you should check their website – and whilst you’re at it their credentials, accreditations, and qualifications.  Membership of the ARB is compulsory and accreditation to RIBA is also recommended.  They also must have appropriate professional indemnity insurance.

Ask the architect if he can give you some references of previous clients or testimonials that you can follow up on and check their availability and whether this will fit in with your timescales. 

Consider whether you can see yourself working closely with the architect and whether you feel the architect shares your vision and whether indeed they would be interested in your project.

Questions to ask when selecting your architect

• What credentials, accreditations and qualifications do you have?
• What sets you apart from other architects?
• Can you give me any references or show me testimonials?
• Do you have a particular set of values?
• Do you specialise in any particular type/style of build?
• Would you be interested in our project?

Scoping questions to ask before your project starts

You may have whittled down your choices on architect and have a preference for one but there are a few more practical questions you may also want to consider asking, to help with your final decision – a key one being around your chosen builder.

If you don’t already have a builder in mind you may want to discuss this with your architect.  Many architects have builders and other sub-contractors they can recommend because they have a good relationship and know them to be reliable. It can be beneficial to have a team that has successfully worked together in the past. Always make sure you get quotes from more than one builder. 

You will probably have some questions around planning permission. As this has the potential to substantially delay or put an end to your project, ask the architect what the chances are of getting plans approved in your area. 

Scoping questions to ask your architect

• What do you see the main challenges being?
• What are the chances of getting planning permission?
• Will you do a site visit?
• How does the design process work?
• How long should I expect to wait before I see the first drawing?
• Do you use modelling or 3D images?
• What do you need from us to get started?
• Can you help us find builders and other trades people?
• Can you help with project management?

Fees and budgeting for a build project

Your project won’t get very far unless you have the right budget in place and have included a contingency.  You need to know what proportion of your project costs will go on your architect, planning and building regulations and know when they will need paying.  You should also ask about additional fees for other services such as a structural engineer. 

Don’t forget to account for VAT in your planning.  

Questions to ask your architect on fees and budgeting

• How do you establish your fees?
• When will you invoice us?
• Can you help us set a budget?
• Under what circumstances will there be additional fees?
• How much contingency would you recommend?
• What other fees do we need to budget for?

Timescales and scheduling

You need to know when your preferred architect can fit your project in. If you can be flexible with your timeframe, this may not be an issue, but if timing is important this may be a key deciding factor.

Questions to ask on schedules and points of contact

• How busy are you?
• When would you be able to start on our project?
• How long will it take to draw up the plans?
• How long is planning permission going to take?
• Who will be the main point of contact?
• Will other team members be involved?

Building a good relationship with your architect

Once you’ve hired your architect to create the concepts for your building project, you will then start to find all the different contractors to bring your project to life. To ensure your project runs smoothly it is important to have clear and open communication and build a good relationship with your architect from the start.  Meeting them in person is recommended.   When the different parties involved in the project fail to communicate effectively, this will only lead to conflict, time delays, cost overruns and possibly mistakes being made. Make sure you know how issues will be dealt with. 

Questions to ask to maintain good relations

• Will there be a timeline of progress?
• How will you keep me updated on progress?
• How will costs be monitored and communicated?
• Will there be more than one point of contact?
• How will problems be communicated and managed?

If you’re looking for advice or assistance with making alterations to your home, contact our specialist team of architects who will be happy to help angus.ellis@waltonhorsfall.co.uk or 01484 602377

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