Not all architects are equal, in fact sometimes your “architect” isn’t an architect at all. In the UK the title is protected, and the Architect’s Registration Board (ARB) regulate this to safeguard the public. Architectural designers are not architects, though they are often assumed to be.
Why is it important to use a qualified architect?
By working with a registered architect, you can have the confidence that they are fully qualified, insured and maintaining professional competence through ongoing development. They may also be a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects, and whilst this is not mandatory it adds another level of reassurance that they are committed to a professional code of conduct, and you may see them referred to as an RIBA Chartered Architect.
You can check the register and find more useful information on this at Architect’s Registration Board
Finding the right local architect to work with
You could think of your initial conversation like speed dating, are they a good match and is this relationship worth pursuing? Home extensions and new build homes are not a quick process and during the months (or years!) you’ll be working together an ease of communication and ability to talk openly about ideas and matters arising is paramount. When you’re thinking about investing your life savings in your home design project, you may as well enjoy the journey to get there!
What services are on offer?
From “I just need planning drawings”, right through to “construction drawings and build phase support” there’s a whole array of architectural services available.
If you want a cheap set of plans and to crack on immediately, we’re probably not for you.
If you’re looking for an expert to guide you through the process… resulting well-coordinated drawings which makes getting through the regulations and the build phase a breeze… then you’re knocking on the right door. We love to hand hold our clients from beginning to end, but not all architects do. That’s why it’s important to ensure you’re aligned on your needs and expectations from the outset.
Consider also that an architect is not the only design professional you’ll need, a Chartered Structural Engineer is also critical to home extension projects. You’ll want to ensure the structural design is robust… but that’s for another blog. Fortunately, with our engineers in house it reduces the hassle for us and our clients when it comes to coordination and keeps a lid on costs.
There’s a lot to consider when you’re planning a building project, and it can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a checklist of 12 Questions To Ask Your Architect before you get started.
We’re a team of local residential architects and structural engineers based near Wokingham and Reading, Berkshire. If you’re local get in touch, we look forward to a chat!
