If you live in the United Kingdom, you are not legally required to employ an architect for your construction project. That means that technically, you are able to completely design the project yourself and leave it to the builder to do the other aspects. This is not a move to make lightly. Before you begin this path, make sure you’ve considered these aspects.

What’s the role of an architect?

An architect is one responsible for designing buildings, and makes sure that they are constructed correctly. From the initial design phase to the final stage of construction, the expertise of an architect can be extremely beneficial not just assist you in conceptualizing your ideas but also to oversee all contractors and consultants. It is common for architects to oversee and oversee their quality throughout the whole project as an administrator for contracts as well as the construction manager. Their job is to make sure the construction is completed according to plan and be able to quickly react to sudden changes.

Do you have an idea of what you would like?

An architect could be helpful if you’re unsure what you’re looking to achieve. They are trained to think out of the box and envision spaces, and can therefore help you develop your ideas. If, on the other hand you know the exact details of what you’d like to achieve, it’s not worth the expense of an architect’s fee (usually between 8 to 12% of the project’s worth).

Do you have the time to visit the site?

If you’ve ever viewed any episode of Grand Designs you know how satisfying managing projects can be but it’s also extremely time-consuming and energy draining. If you’re thinking that’s something you would like to do and be confident, being competent and be able to set hours aside regular basis is a great way to go. A good project management skills isn’t to be ignored, however, it’s about preparing well and quickly adapting to the unexpected. If you’re worried about renovations, our online course will help you embrace making plans ahead, and provides you with the information you need about the things to expect during an intense but ultimately rewarding.

There’s a delicate balance in the frequency of your visits on site. Too often can disrupt the flow of work and cause construction crew from doing their work effectively. This could give you the feeling of being demoralized that the process isn’t moving forward. However the inability to go enough can result in a mistake delayed for too long, which can be expensive to correct and time-consuming. We suggest not to do it more than once per week, particularly at the beginning of your project.

Do you have confidence in your builder?

Naturally, if you’re planning to build with no architects Newbury in place, it’s essential to talk it over with your builder and create an enduring relationship. Find a reliable contractor who can complete the job right on time is vital. In order to do this, ensure you make sure you ask the right questions and collect as many reviews as you can before you begin onsite.

What is the best way to design and build firm?

The design-build firm is a construction company which also provides in-house design and development services. This means that you will have one point of contact since they will take care of everything from design to building and management of construction. The services offered will reflect in the cost, but it is more affordable and less hassle than contacting two separate companies, for example. an architect and the builder.

The drawback of working with the design and build firm is that it is in the interest of the contractor to build the extension at a cost that is as low as they can to maximize their profits, and the absence of an external party to balance the scales could result in lower results. So, in contrast to an architect you have appointed the designer employed by the design and build firm is employed by the builder.

What are the requirements for planning and building regulations?

Planning

If you’re able to draw or use drawing software (or have a friend who is) You can certainly plan yourself. In our guide to planning except for projects that are extremely complex, planning does not require technical expertise but is more about the way in which the project is implemented in relation to its surroundings. The majority of the time, all you require are elevations of the facade and plans.

If you’re working on an listed building or an area of conservation it is possible to think about hiring an architect or consultant in planning to guide you through the most effective strategies.

Building rules

Building regulations approval could be more complicated and it is difficult to get it done yourself if you do not have the necessary knowledge. Contractors provide approval to build in the course of their work. A lot of product companies offer the technical specifications on their site in the event that you ask for it. In addition, if you’ve worked in conjunction with an engineer for structural work some companies can handle building regulations drawing for you.