Why use an architect?

We are designers, not builders, so we tend to make things in a more considered and artistic way, we think about environmental issues we are trained to look at the next step or what's around the corner, in terms of planning and programming.

We can almost guarantee that we can save you more money than our fee!

An architect is a professional, like a solicitor, doctor or accountant.

Architects will protect your interests throughout a complicated process.

It may be your life savings you are spending. Do you really trust someone who doesn't even have professional indemnity insurance?

Architects add value.

Architects are your agents that help you realise a design, or even a dream.

Architects know where to source the right materials, products and labour.

Architects help you through a process that can be a very 'bumpy ride' without professional help.

Architects give you advice on all aspects of your project from your design ideas to the type of heating system is most suitable for your requirements.

Are YOU really going to issue a contract and administer it?.

Do you know what a defects liability period is?

Or retention monies?

If you are in any doubt that an architect adds value, surety and sound advice then proceed with care!

Horror story!

A number of our projects are to be featured on television for a well known Channel 4 programme. One project fitted the criteria but could not be included because we as the architects were not retained beyond obtaining the planning consent. It transpired that the builder and the client redesigned elements of the scheme and failed to gain planning consent. In fact they had a refusal notice. They also failed to have the works inspected by a registered building inspector.

So for the sake of retaining an architect these people may have to demolish the extension and other illegal works.

if you ask them now what they should have done, they are in no doubt.

A building project is a start up business.

We are the business coaches.

We have knowledge experience information and wisdom that will take the stress out of the process.

Price, Programme & Quality,

We will help you get all three.

The quality of the answer is dependant on the quality of the question!

Why not get the architect to do the planning consent and go to a builder for the rest? Just think of the saving!

The builder will give you a version of the the planning drawing. It could be just what you want, but it might not be. Then what?

The planning drawing is for the planners, not the builders!

The planning drawings set out basic principals of form and finish.

They are not a health & safety document, a comprehensive tender document, nor a construction drawing or a specification.

If you don't want the project outcome to be a lottery then a full set of production information is essential; or the job can turn into a nightmare.

Fees

Fees are calculated on RIBA recommended fee scales.

10% of the contract cost is a good place to start the budget for professional fees.

We use indicative 'yardage' rates to formulate a building budget.

For small works up to £100K allow between £1000 & £2000 for each square metre of built area on each floor.

So a two-storey extension of 40sq metres = 40 x 2 = 80m x £1000= £80,000 or at £2000/sqm £160,000, this cost varies with factors such as specification levels, higher quality being more expensive, site access and general buildability.

Time charge is the other way we work. This method is less popular with creative people as the right solution can take 2 seconds or 2 months to find...

Time charge rates are:

£85/hr for architects.

£65/hr for technicians

Expenses for copying, travel, phone calls, faxes etc are charged.

All appointments are made with the RIBA Standard Form Agreement 99.

ALL PROFESSIONAL FEES & EXPENSES ARE CHARGED WITH VAT ADDED AT 17.5%

All fees are by negotiation.

Payment must be made prior to any Local Authority submission or drawing issue.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE FURTHER INFORMATION AS REGARDS FEES PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE.

If you would like to see what our clients think of us take a look at the testimonials page.