Transforming Spaces

Choosing the professional services of a registered and chartered architect may well prove to be the best investment you ever make. This is key when designing or remodelling your property for many reasons, but value for money should be at the top of your list. 

The service provided extends well beyond just producing a set of drawings: architects are trained to see things from the widest possible perspective and to focus in on the smallest detail. This makes a real difference to the quality, practicality, value and comfort of your home. Whether you are looking for tradition or innovation, boldness or understatement, an architect can lift your project out of the ordinary. 

An architect's attention to detail will add value to your home through efficient use of space, careful selection of materials, environmental sensitivity and energy efficiency, which can result in low running and maintenance costs and long-term savings.

A professional will take the worry out of the design and construction process. They will help you to achieve your aim by identifying your aspirations and needs and employing their creative talent, imagination, technical ability, knowledge and experience to find the best design solution.

However, the first thing a good architect will do is ask questions, then listen to understand what you are trying to achieve. They will work with you to develop your brief and finalise the budget before starting the project. Coming up with a design that will increase the building’s value, they will guide you through a range of processes from initial design to planning, construction, then completion.

Before contacting an architect, it is best to compile a project brief or ‘wish-list’, focusing on what you want to achieve, your requirements and any problems. Think in terms of how you want to use your home, both now and in the future, not just what needs to be built. Then try to establish a realistic budget.

Most architects offer free initial consultations. These can be incredibly useful, giving you guidance on all aspects of your project, from design and cost to planning and construction.

Employing someone to design or remodel and build your home is likely to be a nerve-racking experience. An architect will guide you through this process, whether constructing a new home or adapting an existing one, and will advise you on all approvals required before your project can go ahead, including preparation of applications to the local authority for planning consent and for Building Regulations approval.

 At the initial meetings, you will create the project brief to address not only design aesthetics, but also the building’s function. The project’s success depends on the quality of this brief so it is important that you and your architect identify the requirements and functions of your home. Timings and budgets will be defined at an early stage and only after you have approved initial sketches will the ideas be developed further.

Architects' fees may be based on either a percentage of the total construction cost, the time charged or a lump sum. You can select all or part of an architect's service, from an initial design discussion to the final delivery.

A good working relationship between architect and client is crucial to the project’s success. You should both discuss and agree on the scope and cost of services before the project begins, and ensure that the agreement is in writing. To help clients, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) publishes the Domestic Project Agreement, which is suitable for use where the client requires work to their home.

Many people may offer to design your home. Anyone styling themselves 'architectural designer' or similar is unlikely to be an accredited architect and will not have comparable experience, skills or knowledge. Choosing a registered and chartered architect – such as one accredited by RIBA – will give you peace of mind. They comply with strict criteria covering insurance, health and safety and quality management systems.

John Wilde is a registered and chartered architect and the current RIBA Exeter Branch Chair. Based in Devon for more than 30 years, he runs his own architectural practice, specialising in conservation projects throughout the South West.

“An architect can lift your project out of the ordinary”