2 storey extension- would you choose a good RIBA architect someone cheaper?

[wantanextension]

We are planning a 2 storey extension to our house which is obviously going to cost a huge amount! We have drawn our own plans and the design is quite complicated because of the amount of steel/ RSJ's which will most likely be involved. The architect we most liked turns out to not be an architect but someone who does very good architectural drawings and building surveying. We have had 2 other RIBA architects round too but tbh they were not very dynamic at all, gave little or no ideas and just quote a lot of money! So, is it worth paying the extra money to have a RIBA architect or should we just take the opportunity to save some money? Any insight would be very appreciated.

Please please go with the proper architect. We've just used someone who "did very good architectural drawings" and they were brilliant, BUT.........

We applied for planning last January, got it in February and have been waiting since March for a building warrant. The plans have been back and forward about six times. In the end, we've gone to a "proper" architect who submitted the final set of plans in December, we were then told by him to go ahead and build anyway as there wasn't anything else really they could return them for.

Apparently, now this could be just our council, but these guys work closely with the council, know what they want and are likely to get their plans put through much quicker.

Well, the building is up now and we're just waiting on the warrant coming through any day now. It has been worth the stress.

I hope this helps.

That's really useful information- thanks. If it means things will progress more smoothly, I tend to agree it's worth spending the money.

You're welcome, I hope it goes well for you. All we need now is for the new kitchen to arrive, which has been delayed till 26th February

Oh and of course a building warrant!

Proper architect as they (should) know their way around the system plus know more likely what is going to be approved or not.

Hope you get what you want!