I would like help how to choose an architect or draftsman. We are wanting to begin the process of designing an expansive extension to our home. Any tips would be appreciated.
I’d suggest choosing someone local to your area. They will understand the climate, local planning laws, dealing with your council, the types of housing in your area, and have contacts with local tradespeople and suppliers. Also less travel time to site which can help contain costs.
Consider, are you after a particular expertise? Inner city reno, rural block, focus on sustainability, contemporary design, heritage restoration etc?
Ask for recommendations but don’t limit yourself either. Then look through the portfolios/websites of architects whose work you like. Check out their projects. Read testimonials.
When you plan a meeting, remember that you are interviewing them. Do you click? can they work within your budget? Is your budget realistic? How are fees calculated? How much experience do they have in the type of work you want? What time frame can they work in? Do they have their own signature style or are they flexible? That’s for starters. this interview is not so much about the specifics of the design. It’s to determine if you are a good match. You need to feel comfortable giving and receiving feedback and they need to be able to do the same.
Ask to speak to previous and current clients. Current clients can be particularly insightful. What are they like to work with? Has the project run on time and to budget? (Be aware that problems with this could stem from the client or builder though) how do they communicate? Has the design fulfilled their brief? Etc
Check all their professional registrations etc are up to date.
That’s for starters. Importantly, make sure your budget is realistic. Best of luck with the reno.
Great question, and one of the most important decisions you will make for your project, and your investment in it. It deserves a full/lengthy article but will try and keep it concise.
Firstly understand the differences and spectrum of options from architects, building designers and drafting. Basic description is that architects/designers practice Design and crafting spaces, whilst isolated drafting is a technical/mechanical process of "drawing up plans". Completely different things although drafting is an integrated component of architectural service. Secondly understand the difference between certain operators. In your case you'd be best to seek assistance of an operator experienced in the scale and nature of your project, which sounds like a large extension/renovation scenario. These projects are inherently different in nature to new builds and require a certain approach and understanding, particularly around rationalising certain design decisions/adjustments and the impact one way or another on construction costs.
Whilst browsing a portfolio will give you an idea of past projects completed, think about what you are looking at as built examples of other people's dreams, which may on one hand look impressive or perhaps equally not necessarily be your particular cup of tea. Don't judge the operator on this visual exclusively as it doesn't represent the most important thing which is ultimately the service and the way the professional operates and practices. You could love the images, but the operator could be the wrong choice for you personally, and equally you could write off the best option for you by not liking a picture of what they may have done for "someone else's dream". It's very subjective business.
Understand that you are engaging someone to assist and guide you through the process of designing your home & living spaces. You also have to commit to the process and understand that it is a collaboration and a journey.
The process of designing your extension should begin with conversations around 2 fundamental things. 1. Your particular goals/requirements for your home/property and 2. Your budget.
We consider the most important things with these projects are having trust in the (design) process and the relationship with who you engage to guide you through it. There are designers who will push their own agendas, whilst there are others who will be more flexible and responsive to the client's needs. Horses for courses, just be sure you understand the differences before your make a decision. Oh and someone local and "on the ground" probably the sensible option for a renovation
I'm always hesitant to specifically recommend anyone in this industry, as what works in one situation won't necessarily on the next, so best advice I can give is do some research, clarify exactly what you are needing and start some direct discussions/conversations with some options....such as perhaps these guys above ;) Best of luck Cheers PD :)
Sara Graham
Paul Di Stefano Design
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canaanpatOriginal Author
Paul Di Stefano Design