Common Questions Answered: All You Need to Know About Hiring an Architect

Hiring an architect is essential for any big building project as they can help in so many ways. From coming up with a design to maximising the potential of your project, you’re very unlikely to get the results you'd like if you don’t have a professional team behind you.

However, when hiring an architect there are a lot of questions that need answering not only to be able to find the right architect for your needs but for you to gain a better understanding of the process and project. 

In this blog, we provide the answers to some of the most common questions about hiring an architect so you’re clued up on everything you need to know. Read on for all you need to know.

There are many different types of architects who specialise in a range of projects. From domestic builds to commercial and industrial planning, you can find an architect to help with almost anything you have in mind, including:

Extensions are one of the most popular home modifications in the UK and according to recent stats, could increase your property value by at least 22%. From loft conversions to kitchen extensions and additional bathrooms, you can gain extra space without the hassle of moving house. Hiring an architect can help you to finalise your design and ensure that the extension is built in a way that does not affect the rest of your home.

If you’re thinking of getting into the property business or you want to build the home of your dreams from scratch, you’ll need the support of a brilliant architect. Creating a completely new property is not an easy job but the end results are worth it. Architects are trained to deliver the requirements needed to build a property as well as consider your needs and insert their professional opinion too. 

Shopping malls, a new business complex or any other commercial developments need the right kind of designs which is where architects come in. Across the world, commercial buildings have some of the most unique designs making them recognisable such as The Shard, Sydney Opera House and the Burj Khalifa. 

There are many types of projects that architects can help with, in fact, that’s the great thing about having a professional on your team, the possibilities are endless.

So, how do you go about finding an architect? No matter how big your plans are you must take your time when looking for an architect as this could make or break your project. From the initial design to keeping everything within budget, there are a lot of things to consider. To find the right architect you should consider:

Since architecture is so vast, each architect will have a specialist area or may be more experienced in certain types of builds. When starting your search be sure to find out as much as you can about the architect and their previous experience as this will give you a good idea of how they can fit in with your requirements. You may be able to see a portfolio online so you can browse through their previous work if not, any professional architect should be more than happy to send you some examples.

Do you know someone who has just completed an architectural project and you’re impressed with the work? Well, why not ask for a recommendation? Using an architect that your friend or associate has previously used is a good way of finding some fit for the job. You can ask as many questions as you’d like and get a good idea of the quality of their work.

Here at Integrated Designs & Associates, our experienced team have been involved in a range of projects including office block development, housing and more. Based in Birmingham and the West Midlands, we can help you draft and deliver your planning application to the appropriate authorities as well as design and build your plans. Get in touch today for more information.

Architectural work is not a quick process, so choosing a good architect is important as you’ll be working with them for several months perhaps even years. Building a good relationship will ensure that the process runs smoothly and communication remains at a good level throughout the project. 

You can build a good relationship by:

● Giving a really clear brief that sets out exactly what is expected

 

● Address problems as soon as they crop up

 

● Try to minimise unnecessary changes that will set your project back or undo the work that your architect has already done

 

● Listening to the advice given to you by your architect, especially if they believe a design should be done in a different way as ignoring every suggestion could result in issues along the way - remember why you hired them! 

Whether you’re extending your home or building a structure from scratch, unless you’re an architect yourself then it could be unwise to take on the project without the right design and guidance. As professionals in this field, architects can plan and design everything that needs to be done for your build, integrating your ideas and ensuring the structure is safe. 

Here we explain some of the benefits of this service.

What you’d like and what can be done may be two very different things, so hiring an architect will make sure that your project is built safely. The last thing you want is to experience major problems along the way which is why it’s so important to have a design plan that’s been created by a professional.

You’re going to have a hard time explaining to your buildings what needs to be done if they don’t have blueprints to refer to. Many architects will use 3D designs that make it easy to interpret the plans so everyone, including yourself, has a good understanding of how things should look. This is also a helpful aid for making changes as you can see exactly what you like and don’t like.

Architects can come up with plans based on your ideas, however, they can also create designs and solutions that you may never have thought of. Having this professional evaluation could save you money and improve your initial design too.

Every architect will charge differently and it usually depends on the size and complexity of your project. Remember, hiring an architect is essential for a successful build so don’t be put off by high prices.

Are you planning a domestic building project? Are you looking for an experienced architect that you can trust? Look no further than Integrated Designs in Birmingham. We understand how important it is to have a team you can trust. Whether you’re building your dream home or extending your commercial property, we’ll work alongside you to complete your build to the highest standard. 

Our services include domestic work, geotechnical engineering, structural engineering and more. With over 27years of experience and a highly regarded reputation, you won’t be disappointed with our work. Kickstart your project off in the right way, get in touch for more information.