Finding an architect for your home development can add lots to any building project. A home architect will listen to you and translate your ideas into a viable construction.
To become an architect takes a long period of study and training, usually seven years in total. Only those who have completed this period of architect study and acquired the relevant qualifications can be admitted to the UK Register of Architects.
How do you find the right home architect?
It's a good idea to get a home architect in as early as possible, they can help you define the project in terms that provide meaningful guidance for design. The architect may also do site studies, help secure planning, help you work out financing, and a variety of other pre design services.
How can I be sure the architect is fully qualified?
The Architects Registration Board (ARB) was set up by an Act of Parliament in 1997 to regulate the Architects' profession in the UK. ARB prescribes the qualifications and threshold standards that must be gained and met to become a registered architect.
When you employ an ARB registered architect, you can be confident that you are finding an architect who is appropriately educated, registered and regulated to provide the skills you need for your home. Only those individuals held on the register of Architects are allowed to use the title 'architect' as Section 20 of the Architects Act 1997 prohibits anyone from using the title in business or practice unless they are registered with the ARB.
When looking for your home Architect, it's for you to decide on the architectural services you need and therefore the level of skills the person you employ must have to carry out the work.
Using our Architectural Services search you can find "ARB Registered Architects".
How much does an architect cost?
An architect's fees may be charged as a percentage of the total project cost or at an hourly rate or as a lump sum, depending on the service supplied and contract agreed.
How to find an architect?
Its advised that you interview a minimum of three Architect firms, enough to see the range of possibilities for your home, but not so many that an already tough decision will be further complicated. Interview architecture firms that you feel can do your project because of their expertise, experience, and ability to bring a fresh look to your situation.
When you find an architect, call them and describe your project and its approximate timing, and check their ability to accommodate it. If they can help, request practice literature with details about the home architect's qualifications and experience, then arrange meetings so you can discuss your requirements in detail.
Meet each of the architectural practices, this will give you an indication of whether the chemistry between you is right.
Questions to ask an architect
What does the architect expect to contribute to the project?
How much information does the architect need?
How does the architect set priorities and make decisions?
Who in the firm will work directly with you?
How will engineering or other design services be provided?
How does the firm provide quality control during design?
What is the firm's construction-cost experience?
What do they consider to be the most important issues on the project?
It's a good idea to meet the key personnel who will work on your home and remember to allow the company plenty of interview time and access to the site or existing facilities to answer your questions fully.
Look for the best balance between technical competence, professional service and, of course, design ability. Look for new ideas and a fresh outlook on the project. Find a good fit between your needs and the services offered. Do not underestimate the importance of empathy and of finding an architect who shares your aims and expectations for the project.
Establish a formal agreement - the agreement you sign with your chosen home architect must detail the scope and cost of the services you will need. Together, you should discuss the demands of the project, agree on what's expected and put it in writing. You may find it useful to formulate your brief first, to establish your vision of the project and what it entails. On smaller projects, an exchange of letters may suffice as a contract, as long as it covers everything. For larger schemes, use a standard form of contract.
Remember, to find a good architect - look for a good listener, so that they can turn your dreams for your home in to reality.