Planning a big project - advice please!

[Shantishanti]

We are just embarking on the initial planning of a big project, which will involve at least one loft conversion, an extension, moving walls around and installing a new kitchen, bathroom and boiler.

We are going to use an architect and met with him for the first time last week. We are not in a hurry, and hopefully will be able to live in one part of the house while work is done in the other half, then swap.

I would really appreciate any advice you seasoned and experienced people can offer, as we've never done anything like it before!