Why do I need an architect? Your home, it’s probably the biggest purchases & assets you’ll own in your life. Most of us want to transform our living space into our dream home.  

So when it comes to planning major alterations, extensions or even building a brand new home, you need to get the best team together to plan, design and build your project in the most efficient way. Recruiting a architect is a great place to start.

I’ve done a bit more on this topic here.

Many people do not understand the full benefits of working with an architect, sure they design buildings, but what else?

There’s much more to it than doing a few drawings! Architectural services extend well beyond the paperwork. A good architect will provide you with all of the architectural services that you require, for any stage of your construction project. They’ll bring value for money to the development, imagination and design flair, project management, for peace of mind that your scheme is heading in the right direction, whilst keeping a watchful eye on your budget!

The ultimate success of your project depends on the brief we make together, i.e. when we clearly understand your requirements and functions of your building. The brief should look at:

your aims, your budget, your desired design style, your reasons for embarking on this building project, your overall expectations

At the initial meetings, I will listen carefully to your aims and create a brief, addressing not only design aesthetics, but also the function of the building. I’ve written a more comprehensive piece here.

I run a small practice and will provide you with a bespoke and personal service. I’ve written a small piece about myself here.

I offer a free one-hour consultation at a time that is convenient for you, this can be by phone or Zoom call.

During our meeting we will discuss what you want to achieve by developing your property, whether it be increasing space, light, flexibility or something else. I will outline my likely fees and other costs you may incur (Structural Engineer/ Council Fees/ Water Authority). I will explain how I can assist in the procedures to obtain Planning and Building Regulations Approval for the proposed development.

There are two Statutory Permissions that are required before your project can start construction. Planning and Building Control. The main difference between these two:

Planning - whether the appearance, mass, form, siting etc. is acceptable.

Building Regulations - ensures that you are building to an accepted regulatory standard.

I’ve a full explanatory on this, see it here.