We are considering extending into the garden. Clearly I could google an architect but are there ay do's and don'ts when looking for one? Does anyone have any recommendations in the Surrey area (Esher/Kingston area)? Thank you.
How to find an architect?
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Caporegime
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ARB register and RIBA site would be a good start. Make sure they are on the ARB register or they are not licensed.
Soldato
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My suggestions:
- Do ask for recommendations from friends in the area, maybe try asking on Facebook.
- Do learn what the industry qualifications are and check to see they have them.
- Do ask to see examples of previous work and see if you can verify they did it.
- Do ask for recommendations from friends in the area, maybe try asking on Facebook.
- Do learn what the industry qualifications are and check to see they have them.
- Do ask to see examples of previous work and see if you can verify they did it.
+1 for what Raymond has said.
There are lots of unqualified "architectural designers" out there with no accreditation. They may have experience and good, but as structural engineer who has worked with all sorts, I would always recommend someone who's accredited. Admittedly you're likely to pay a bit more for their services.
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Associate
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As above. If it’s just a simple permitted development - a good builder will be absolutely fine. They’ll have an engineer on tick to sort out any calcs and if the plans are pretty much off the shelf. Be mindful that lots of builders now use private building control companies though - who liaise with your local authority. A LOT easier to schedule an inspection!!!
Personally we found instagram was where most architects operate in terms getting a feel for what they do and their ‘style’. Most offered an introductory scoping call or visit to get a feel for them and the way they work.
Clearly take references etc. but decent firms will be busy and have a portfolio of projects you can see completed and in progress. Look for recent references as well to avoid the risk of them showing you their greatest hits so to speak.
The main advantage of the architect was they had reputable contractors they work with and trust.
Architect led isn’t the cheapest on paper but if I compare our refurb vs. Friends and neighbours who went builder led we’ve got a much better outcome.
Clearly take references etc. but decent firms will be busy and have a portfolio of projects you can see completed and in progress. Look for recent references as well to avoid the risk of them showing you their greatest hits so to speak.
The main advantage of the architect was they had reputable contractors they work with and trust.
Architect led isn’t the cheapest on paper but if I compare our refurb vs. Friends and neighbours who went builder led we’ve got a much better outcome.
Soldato
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This makes perfect sense to me, most trades I have seen work will always be looking for an easier way of doing things if they can.
Which in itself is frustrating because you expect when you are paying a professional to do something you are getting the best outcome.
Very true.
And even once you get a builder in, to build the architect's design, it's best to retain them to oversee the construction on the owner's behalf. Some builders have a habit of changing designs by claiming it's better/easier their way, and there's risk of them screwing up for the owner.