Architect needed or not?

[HeddaGabbles]

We are considering some major remodelling work in our house. Kitchen wall knocked through and extended , bedroom extended out, new bathroom and windows etc. How would I start with this? Would we need an architect or just a builder? I have no idea . I would like some drawings and a quote.

An architect on a fixed quote for the actual extensions and can advise on submitting for planning permission or permitted development

Then structural engineer to provide structural calculations. Can't get builder to quote without this

Ideally have an electrical plan as well in order to get like for like quotes. This needs a floor plan with furniture placement, ideally

So the other way is to employ a local interior designer who will hold your hand thru the whole process and give you an amazing result at the end

The only way to get accurate quotes and stick to a budget is to plan everything and pick everything in advance

Thanks. That all sounds a bit daunting!

@HeddaGabbles A good architect should come up with ideas you haven’t. Best use of space and storage plans for example. If you just want a box - an architectural technician will do. They are not architects but draw up plans for pp and will engage the structural engineer. Architects are more about the creative process (see the Angela Scanlon programme) but can be very inventive. Use of light and materials you had not thought about for example. They cost more. You might also have great ideas yourself.

You need to engage builders to quote. You must have detailed plans for this. You also must consider foundation depth and how the extension sits with the existing house. I find technician design a bit predictable but maybe that’s what you want?

Definitely think about kitchen design, wiring and lighting.

We had both an architect and interior architect when we renovated. The latter was by far the best money spent on the project. In hindsight we could have done without the architect.

Definitely use an architect, they will draw up the plans, suggest things you won’t have considered and also advise on the planning side of things (mine filed all the paperwork). They pointed out odd things I’d have never thought of, like I think we needed planning permission because we added a window into an old garage, even though it didn’t overlook anything. Mine also recommended the structural engineer for the calculations (if you’re taking walls down, steels need to go in). Then you can approach builders for quotes.

I doubt any builders would quote for a big job like that without the above unless you worked in the trade and knew what you were doing!

I didn't know there were different types of architect!

@HeddaGabbles There are not. They can specialise in different areas. Or, interior designers might employ an architect. They do where DD is a freelance. However a chartered architect is - a Chartered architect. Interiors are a specialism they have developed.

For a project like this involving wall removal, extension, new bathroom, windows etc, you do want an architect rather than going straight to a builder. You'll get much better quotes, much less risk, and (if you choose well) a better result.

The rough sequence: architect first, to understand what's possible (and ultimately produce planning and building regs drawings). Structural engineer for calculations on anything load-bearing. Then builders quote off that package. Trying to get quotes before you have drawings is like asking a decorator to price before you've chosen the paint — the numbers will be meaningless.

The process sounds daunting but it's actually quite linear once you've appointed someone good. The architect should be able to walk you through each stage as you get there — you don't need to understand it all upfront.

They may be referring to an interior designer, rather than an 'interior architect'. Interior designers are not regulated in the way architects are. Architects are a protected title, registered with the ARB. An interior designer can be brilliant at finishes and layout, but for a project involving extensions and structural work you need someone who can take it through planning and building control. Good architects have strong interiors knowledge too, so it doesn't have to be either/or.

There are interior design diplomas and degrees. They just are not a chartered profession. Doesn’t mean they are not useful and can enhance a project. Usually larger projects though.