FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. WHY USE AN ARCHITECT?
Qualified architects have studied for at least seven years and have a complete understanding of the building process from initial design ideas through to completion on site. Most importantly, they add value, whether from maximising light and space, adding functionality, or achieving the best return on your investment. Architects are also subject to a statutory code of practice and have Professional Indemnity Insurance to protect their clients. There are useful guides, published by the RIBA, which explain the process and benefits of working with an architect. We can provide you with a copy if you contact us. More information about the process can be found here - Architects: Why Use Them? | Why Work with an Architect? | RIBA (architecture.com)
2. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
The timescale depends upon the size of the project. We are happy to advise upon the likely length of time a project will take at the first consultation. There are numerous stages to a project from initial surveys, design studies, planning applications etc. Please contact us and we can discuss your project further.
3. HOW DO YOU CHARGE?
Following our initial consultation, we will provide a written fee quote detailing our fees at the various stages of the project (concept design, planning, project management). We understand that clients need to be confident in budget planning and can provide either lump sum or percentage fee costs.
4. DO I NEED PLANNING APPROVAL?
Most large projects will require planning approval. Depending on the property (e.g. a listed building) there may be additional applications required. Please contact us if you are not sure. Having lived and worked on the Darras Hall Estate for many years, we are very experienced in the requirements and byelaws of the Estate Committee.
5. WHAT ARE BUILDING REGULATIONS?
The building regulations help ensure that new buildings, conversions, renovations and extensions (domestic or commercial) are going to be safe, healthy and high-performing. Detailed regulations cover specific topics including: structural integrity, fire protection, accessibility, energy performance, acoustic performance, protection against falls, electrical and gas safety. They also lay standards for drains, ventilation, protection against the ingress of water and protection against contamination including methane and radon gas.
6. WHAT SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?
We can tailor our appointment to the client's needs. Some clients will require only a feasibility study to determine the development potential of a site whilst some will require a full appointment from concept design through to completion on site. We understand that each project is different and the client's needs are the primary concern.
7. CAN YOU PROVIDE 3D DRAWINGS?
Yes, we find that clients appreciate seeing their project in three dimensions and it is a useful tool in ensuring that the client understands the spatial relationships in their project.
8. CAN YOU RECOMMEND A CONTRACTOR?
In order to provide a competitive price for the works, it is usual for us to contact a number of contractors to price our client's projects. This ensures that the client achieves best value and that a wider pool of contractors are given the opportunity to price for each project. If the client has a builder who they prefer to use then we are happy to accommodate their choice.