Would you consider using an architect who lives next door to draw up plans for a ground floor expension?

[MinkyBorage]

My initial thoughts were 'no way' because apparently she was quite obstructive with her neighbours on the other side of her place when they had an extension. The more I think about it, the more I think it might be quite a good idea.
I'd be a bit worried that she would be drawing the plans with her priority being minimal disruption for herself.
What would you do?

I'd look for someone else, preferably on recommendation

I'd be concerned about potential difficulties in the relationship and the fact that you'd have to continue living next door to her

Much better to keep it 'strictly business' rather than that slightly blurred professional/neighbourly/friendly alliance you would end up with

I would see it as a positive in that I'd hope she'd make a good job as she's got no where to hide iyswim.

No I wouldn't. If you were worried about her disrupting your plans you could always take them round in a friendly neighbourly way and let her know what you were thinking of and whether there would be any impact on her before you submitted them for approval.

Also - imagine if she drew rubbish plans - you'd have to turn her down and then face living next door to her.

NO.

dont mix business with pleasure.

tbh you need to get in touch with a ouple of architects, maybe including her and see which suits your vision and which you could work with. it may or may not be your neighbour whose best suited to the job.

MinkyB never said she actually knows said architect "socially".

I wouldn't, and I work (sort of) in the profession.

Too many people I know have fallen out with their architects and I just don't think it's worth doing if there's any possibility that might happen with your neighbour. I know that's worse-case scenario, but I wouldn't risk it, especially if she's been troublesome in the past.

In fact, I'd be more inclined to ask the neighbours the other side whether they were happy with their architect - you might even be able to use similar plans to theirs if it suits, which could save £££.

Think Betty Butterknife is right. Don't do it.