Working with architects Archives

16 September 2026

The Valley House: Designing a Contemporary Home Within a Conservation Area

Visualisation of rear view of traditional house with contemporary extension

Nestled within one of West Bridgford's most established conservation areas, The Valley House transforms an existing family home, revealing potential that wasn't immediately obvious. Rather than simply extending the property, we balanced family life, landscape, heritage and proportion to create a home that feels both timeless and entirely bespoke.

From the street, the finished home presents a calm and elegant symmetry that appears effortless. In reality, this balance emerged gradually. As with every project we undertake, we began from the inside out, focusing first on how the family wanted to live rather than how the building should look.

Working closely with the clients, we planned each space around the rhythms of everyday family life. The resulting layout connects the generous footprint in an intuitive way.

As the internal arrangement evolved, an unexpected opportunity emerged. The positioning of rooms, circulation and extensions naturally began to echo one another. Recognising this, we refined the architecture further, enlarging existing dormers, adjusting window positions and subtly reshaping the original building until the front elevation achieved its balanced composition.

The result is an elegant, almost symmetrical façade that feels entirely at home within its surroundings, despite the extensive remodelling behind it. The architecture appears obvious only because we carefully considered every decision.

Designing Within a Conservation Area

The project's sensitive conservation area setting required close collaboration with both the local conservation officer and tree officer. Detailed planning submissions, supported by arboricultural reports and extensive site analysis, demonstrated how the proposals would enhance the property while protecting the area's mature landscape and historic character.

Existing Tree Preservation Orders played a significant role in shaping the design. Rather than viewing these constraints as obstacles, we used them to refine the architecture further.

The surrounding trees influenced the position of the extension, external landscaping and subtle adjustments to the building's footprint. This approach ensured that the proposal respected both the visible landscape and the unseen root protection zones beneath it.

Reimagining the Garden

The rear of the home tells an equally thoughtful story. Initially, we considered positioning the new swimming pool in the part of the garden that enjoyed the last of the evening sunshine. However, as we analysed the garden in greater detail, it became clear that the family would benefit more from using this prime position as an outdoor entertaining space. After all, families are far more likely to gather around a dining table at sunset than spend every evening in the pool.

This subtle shift in thinking fundamentally changed the garden's layout. The swimming pool found its place within the wider composition, while generous terraces and outdoor seating now occupy the warmest corner of the site.

The result is a garden designed around how people genuinely live, rather than how gardens are traditionally planned.

Landscape as Part of the Architecture

Landscape architecture formed an integral part of the overall design from the outset. We proportioned the rear terrace as an extension of the architecture itself, considering every level, retaining wall and planting zone during the planning process.

Generous planting terraces between the house and garden soften the scale of the substantial rear extension. They also help the building settle naturally into its landscape while creating opportunities for seasonal planting and biodiversity.

This relationship between house and garden continues throughout the interior. From the front entrance, carefully aligned views draw the eye through the heart of the home before opening onto the rear terrace and descending gently into the landscaped garden beyond. These long sightlines reinforce the sense of connection across the entire property. They also help the large family home feel calm, cohesive and effortless to navigate.

Using Technology to Refine the Design

Technology played a significant role throughout the design process. We used immersive virtual reality and detailed 3D modelling to explore the impact of the extension, terraces and surrounding landscape long before construction began.

This allowed the design team and clients to understand the scale of every intervention. We could then refine proportions and relationships with confidence before excavating a single foundation.

A Pergola Designed Around the Trees

One particularly distinctive feature is the bespoke timber pergola that frames the outdoor entertaining space. We designed the structure around a no-dig foundation system to protect the surrounding tree roots. The pergola wraps gently around an established mature tree, celebrating its presence rather than competing with it. The structure creates a sheltered outdoor room, offering shade during warmer months while allowing planting to soften its appearance over time. This strengthens the connection between architecture and landscape and helps the pergola settle naturally within its surroundings.

A Considered Arrival

We gave the arrival sequence the same level of attention as the rest of the project. The redesigned entrance porch sits alongside a new in-and-out driveway. Detailed vehicle tracking analysis helped us ensure that the revised layout functioned as beautifully as it looked.

We considered every movement, from arriving home by car to walking through the front door, as part of a seamless architectural experience.

Architecture Shaped by Careful Decisions

The Valley House is a project defined not by grand gestures, but by hundreds of carefully considered decisions. It demonstrates our belief that the best residential architecture grows from understanding how people truly live, responding intelligently to site constraints and allowing design opportunities to reveal themselves through careful planning rather than imposing preconceived ideas.

The result is a contemporary family home that sits comfortably within its historic setting while delivering generous, light-filled spaces designed around modern life.

At The Valley House, conservation, landscape and architecture work together to create a home that feels both enduring and effortlessly liveable.

Published by Esther Esther_Hamilton-Dick in Architectural design, Planning permission, Residential, VR architecture, Working with architects

Tags: Architect, Architecture, conservation area, Planning Permission

7 September 2021

What’s involved in working with listed buildings?

Working with a listed building can be a real challenge, and not all architects are up to the job.

If you’re planning to make any kind of an alteration to a listed building, it’s really important that you work with an experienced architect who knows the ins and outs of the restrictions, how to apply for planning permission, and how to ensure that any new additions are in keeping with the style and history of the building.

Let’s look at what’s involved in working with listed buildings.

What is a listed building?

First of all, let’s take a quick look at what a listed building is.

Listed status is designed to protect and preserve buildings of “special architectural and historic merit” by placing restrictions on demolition, alterations and extensions. The status of listed buildings is overseen by English Heritage in England, Cadw in Wales, Historic Scotland in Scotland, and Northern Ireland Environment Agency in Northern Ireland.

England and Wales has three main categories of listed building:

Grade I: Exceptional interest
Grade II*: Particularly important
Grade II: Of special interest

Scotland categorises these buildings as A, B and C, while Northern Ireland uses A, B* and B1/B2.

Over 90% of listed buildings are in the lowest Grade II classification, while just 2.5 are Grade I.

Can I extend or remodel a listed building?

The short answer is yes, but within a strict set of stipulations that will vary from building to building.

English Heritage states that listing “doesn’t freeze a building in time” and therefore doesn’t prevent changes altogether. After all, renovation and restoration work is essential to preserve these important buildings for future generations.

However, as the purpose of listing is to protect the unique character and history of a building, any changes that you wish to make must be carefully considered by the local authority’s conservation department. To make your desired changes, you may be required to use a certain material, architectural style, or any other conditions designed to preserve the integrity of the building.

Is it hard to get planning permission for a listed building?

It’s much harder to get planning permission for a listed building than one that is not listed, but it’s far from impossible. In fact, English Heritage reports that up to 90% of listed building consents are approved.

This statistic should be taken with a pinch of salt, however, as it’s likely that these applications are made by experienced architects and builders who understand what is and isn’t likely to be accepted. If you’re considering any kind of alteration on a listed building, it’s important to find someone with this level of experience to help you.

As well as knowing how to apply and having working relationships with the local authority, an architect who is experienced in working with listed buildings will be able to suggest a design that both meets your requirements and offers the best chance of approval. This will help you to avoid the time and stress of repeat applications.

Architects with listed building experience

If you’re looking for professional advice and support for any renovations or extensions to a listed building, James Brindley of Design Haus is the man for the job.

James has worked with a number of listed buildings in the past and successfully secured planning permission to make sympathetic alterations in line with requirements by English Heritage and local authorities to preserve the character and importance of historic buildings.

To discuss your listed building project, or to find out more about how Design Haus can help you to apply for planning permission, please get in touch.

Published by James Brindley in Advice, Planning permission, Working with architects

Tags: Architect, Architecture, heritage buildings, listed building

3 September 2021

What are the architectural restrictions of a conservation area?

If you’re planning a new-build architectural project or extension to an existing building within a conservation area, you will find that you are subject to certain restrictions.

Let’s take a look at conservation areas and their restrictions.

What is a conservation area?

A conservation area is one that has been deemed to be of significant historic or architectural importance, and is therefore subject to certain restrictions to protect the integrity of the area.

Around 10,000 conservation areas have been designated in England since the initiative was first put in place in 1967. They are usually designated by the local planning authority and aim to preserve the distinctive character of a city, town, village or country estate.

Conservation areas are outlined in Part II of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, and should protect areas of “special architectural or historic interest the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance”.

Planning permission

As with any large-scale building or extension project, homeowners must submit a planning application to the local authority. Along with the standard restrictions, the proposal will also be subject to additional scrutiny regarding its suitability for the protected area.

As well as governing the style or architecture of the buildings themselves, the protection offered by conservation areas also extends to the layout of streets and roads, and the impact on trees and views. This means that homeowners and architects will have to consider many more aspects than in a non-protected area.

Architectural restrictions in conservation areas

As the aim of a conservation area is to ensure that new developments preserve or enhance the individuality of the location, there are certain restrictions that must be adhered to.

Minor changes

Minor developments that might otherwise not require planning permission, such as an extension, dormer loft conversion or recladding of the building exterior, may not be permitted.

Even small changes such as the addition of a satellite dish or the colour of the front door could be controlled by the local authority in a conservation area. As the aim is to protect the unique character of an area, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what is and isn’t allowed.

Demolition

It’s a criminal offence to demolish a building without proper planning permission in a conservation area. You must get permission beforehand if your project requires removing some or all of the existing structure.

It’s not outside the realm of possibility for local councils to permit demolition in a conservation area, but they will usually try to keep the existing buildings as much as possible.

Trees

If you’re planning to cut down, lop or trim any trees in the area as part of your project, you must give the local council six weeks’ notice before undertaking any work.

During this time, the council’s planning department will take into account the impact of the trees on the local area, and whether they are an integral part of its character. Should any tree be deemed deserving of protection, the council can create a tree preservation order (TPO) to prevent cutting down or modification.

Contemporary architecture

As Section 69 of the 1990 Planning Act specifies that developments must “preserve or enhance” the area, this doesn’t necessarily mean that contemporary designs are a no-no.

Where a more modern approach could be seen to enhance the area, you’ve got a good case for approval. However, areas with a strong architectural identity are much less likely to accept an application that is not in keeping with the existing buildings.

For the best chance of obtaining planning permission, it’s worth speaking to the local authority and using their input to inform your design decisions. You might even be able to combine both modern and traditional architectural elements to achieve the best of both worlds.

Work with an experienced architect

Working with an architect who is experienced in working to the restrictions of conservation areas is a great way to improve the chances of having your application approved.

James Brindley, Head Architect at Design Haus, has worked on many planning applications and architectural projects in conservation areas, giving you the confidence that each design decision will be made with the success of the application in mind.

To discuss a project in a conservation area, please get in touch and James will be happy to help.

Published by James Brindley in Advice, Planning permission, Residential architecture, Working with architects

Tags: architectural design, Architecture, conservation area, Planning Permission

23 August 2021

Collaborating with an architect to design your dream home

If you’ve ever considered building your own house, you might wonder whether you can save some money by skipping the architect and doing as much of it as possible on your own.

We may be biased, but we truly believe that collaborating with an architect is the best way to turn your dream home into reality. Here’s why.

Realising your vision

Nobody knows your dream home better than you. Discussing your ideas and drawing up a shopping list of features is one of the first steps in collaborating with an architect to build a house. This gives us the perfect starting point for the project.

However, you can’t just build anything anywhere; having an architect on hand throughout the project is absolutely essential to make sure the home you create is safe, usable and permitted within local legislation. It’s our job to take your concepts and turn them into workable architectural designs that not only look great but are structurally sound.

Architectural expertise

Even if you know exactly what you’d like the final build to look like, you might not know how to get there.

By working with an architect, you can be sure that any designs adhere to industry standards and can be interpreted by the rest of the project team. We’ll even take care of all the complicated bits like applying for planning permission that can get pretty tedious when you’re not sure what you’re doing.

Having an architect on board also gives you access to a wide network of talented and dedicated people who can turn your dream home into a reality. From interior designers and suppliers of building materials to fully qualified electrical installers, We can bring the right people on board to get the job done right.

Take ownership

We always find that it’s crucial to the success of a project and the ongoing relationship to make sure the client is involved from the very beginning. As the person who will be living in the house once it’s complete, it’s only natural that you’d want to have a certain amount of control over the decisions.

Ultimately, it’s our job as Lead Architect to sign off on ideas and explain what is and isn’t feasible in terms of budget, planning permission and the structural integrity of a design. When we work together, everything is a joint decision, and we will consult with you at every step of the process to make sure we find the right balance.

A great relationship

We can’t say that building a house is all fun and games, but the process is much more enjoyable and straightforward when you actually enjoy working together.

We pride ourselves on creating relationships with our clients based on trust and a mutual love of the project at hand. When you’re excited about the design, we are excited, too. There’s something truly special about helping people to create their dream home.

It’s also good to have someone in your corner when things get tough, and they will. At some point, your home build will hit a snag, and having someone who knows the ropes and can guide you through the issues is something you’ll definitely be grateful for when the time comes! I’m here to find solutions and put out fires so you don’t have to worry.

Collaborate with Design Haus

Let’s work together to create your dream home. Whether you know exactly what you want or you’re just mulling over a few ideas, I’d love to chat about your dream home.

Published by James Brindley in Advice, Residential architecture, Working with architects

Tags: Architect, building a house, collaboration, house building

3 July 2021

How do you build a Paragraph 79 house?

If you’ve considered self building a house in the countryside, you might be put off by the strict planning permission requirements that can prevent your dream from becoming a reality.

However, a clause known as Paragraph 79 might be the answer to getting permission granted even on a heritage site. Read on to find out more.

What is Paragraph 79?

Paragraph 79 is an exemption clause in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

Also known as the country house exemption clause, Paragraph 79 allows certain exceptional designs to be approved where their location would normally cause planning permission to be denied. It is often a factor when applying to build isolated houses on green belts or within Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where the construction of buildings is often incongruous with the surroundings.

The reason for this exemption is to allow for continual innovation and development within architecture. In particular, it helps to promote finding newer and better ways to make homes that are sustainable and environmentally friendly.

What criteria must a design meet?

In order to be approved, a proposal must meet some stringent criteria. These include specifications that the design must:

be of exceptional quality
be truly outstanding or innovative, reflecting the highest standards in architecture
help to raise standards of design more generally in rural areas
significantly enhance its immediate setting
be sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area

You can’t expect to meet these criteria without thinking outside the box. As such, pursuing a Paragraph 79 house isn’t for the easily intimidated. It’s also important to note that you might not be able to build the home of your dreams exactly as you imagined it; you’ll need to be open minded and ready to roll with the punches.

How do I apply for Paragraph 79 exemption?

Getting approval isn’t an easy process, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll be granted an exemption. In fact, it’s actually extremely rare, with only about 6 granted per year.

Even using a previously approved project as inspiration isn’t a fool-proof tactic, as one of the stipulations is outstanding innovation. Copying an existing design will therefore make it much less likely to be accepted.

Paragraph 79 architects

If you'd like to discuss your potential Paragraph 79 project with us at Design Haus Architecture, please get in touch

Published by James Brindley in Advice, Architectural design, Working with architects

Tags: appointing an architect, Architect, architectural design, paragraph 79, Planning Permission

20 May 2021

How much does an architect cost?

If you’re looking to extend or renovate an existing building, or you’re planning a complete new-build project, you’ll know how important it is to keep on top of your budget.

Whatever your project, you’ll be looking to add value to the property. Working with a qualified architect is a great way to ensure that the end result is structurally sound, functional and aesthetically pleasing. But how much does an architect cost?

What affects the cost of an architect?

It’s impossible to give a blanket answer to the question of cost, as there are many variables that must be taken into account. Of course, a simple domestic extension will cost less than a complex new-build, and a London-based architect is likely to charge more than one in the Midlands.

Considerations that will affect the architect’s quote include:

Architect’s experience and qualifications
Build size
Project complexity
Project value
Location
Costs of materials, equipment and labour

Architects have different levels of qualifications and experience. For example, not all practitioners will consider the interior design of the space, so working with an architect who is also well versed in interior design will cost more.

Remember as well that you may not need an architect for your project, so you could avoid the cost altogether.

What do an architect’s fees include?

When appointing an architect, you’re not just paying for a design service. Not all architects offer the same services, but the fees may include:

Measuring and surveying the property or land

Drawing up 2D and 3D designs
Design revisions
Preparing and submitting planning applications
Managing the build project
Liaising with third-party contractors

When discussing quotes with different architectural practices, keep in mind which services are essential and which would simply be a waste of budget. You can keep fees down by making sure you’re only paying for the services you need.

How do architects charge?

Fee structures will vary between practices, but architects will usually charge on a percentage basis.

In the UK, you can expect your architect’s fees to be around 5–10% of the overall project cost. If your total project cost is £75,000, you can expect to pay anywhere from £3,750 to £7,500 for your architect’s services.

Practices that offer a variety of services may use different pricing models for each of these services. For example, architects may charge by the hour for project management on top of their standard design service.

Speak to a few different architects and make sure you understand the individual costs of each service before committing. You might think that one practice is much cheaper than the others, only to learn that many of the services you require require an additional cost.

Speak to Design Haus

If you’re looking to appoint an architect for a build project, get in touch with Design Haus. We’ll be happy to discuss your exact requirements and provide a quote for our architect-led design and build service.

Published by James Brindley in Advice, Working with architects

Tags: appointing an architect, Architect, Working with Architects

3 April 2021

What’s the difference between an architect and an architectural designer?

When you’re looking to hire professionals to support a building or extension, you might be unsure of what exactly each different person’s role is.

One of the most common causes of confusion is the differences between an architect, chartered architect, and architectural designer. While these roles sound similar, there are some important differences that you should be aware of before appointing anyone.

What is an architect?

An architect is a person who is able to plan, design and oversee the construction of buildings. As well as dealing with the building itself, they will also assess and consider the building’s impact on the surrounding area, the environment and other key factors.

However, the term “architect” is protected, and a person can only call themselves an architect if they are registered on the Architects Registration Board (ARB). While other professionals may provide the same services, they cannot legally call themselves an architect unless they are ARB registered.

ARB is the UK’s regulatory board for architects and ensures that all registered members have the necessary qualifications and uphold relevant legislation. They work to ensure good standards within the profession.

View Design Haus’ James Brindley on ARB’s register.

What is a chartered architect?

A chartered architect is someone who is registered on both the ARB and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). They are therefore legally allowed to use the title “architect”, as well as being able to use the term “chartered” and the RIBA suffix.

RIBA chartered membership is voluntary and is not a legal requirement. However, it shows an additional dedication to the profession, working to ensure high-quality, environmentally friendly designs and excellent customer service.

View Design Haus’ James Brindley on RIBA’s member directory.

What is an architectural designer?

“Architectural designer” is a vague and broad title that covers the full range of architectural disciplines. They are able to provide some or all of the same services as an architect, but they are not a Registered Architect.

Unlike “architect”, the term is not protected or regulated, so there is no particular qualification that a person is required to have before using the title “architectural designer”. However, they are likely to have some architectural qualifications and often work alongside Registered Architects on design projects.

How to decide who to appoint

There is no legal requirement to use the services of an architect when expanding, renovating or constructing a building. Who you choose to work with will depend on the scope of the project and its particular challenges.

An architect’s job to manage the project for you and liaise with third parties. This includes managing contractors and obtaining planning permission from local authorities.

Don’t pay for more than you require. For smaller, simpler projects, an architectural designer may be adequate. However, the more complex the build, the more beneficial a chartered architect will be. A practitioner who has previously worked on similar projects will be worth their weight in gold.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that governing bodies like ARB will investigate complaints against a member should you have a problem, so this gives you greater protection against cowboys.

James Brindley, chartered architect

Design Haus’ James Brindley is a fully qualified chartered architect registered with ARB and BIID, and fully accredited by RIBA.

Read more about different architectural qualifications or get in touch to discuss your project.

Published by James Brindley in Working with architects

Tags: ARB, Architect, RIBA, Working with Architects

30 December 2020

Architectural accreditations explained: RIBA, ARB and BIID

No matter how big or small your project, it’s important to ensure that you hire an architect that is fully qualified and capable for the task at hand.

When you’re dealing with the budgets and complexities associated with building and construction, hiring an accredited architect will give you peace of mind.

Architectural accreditations can be tricky, as they are not necessarily a legal requirement. Here’s a quick guide to the most common architectural accreditations, so you can be sure that your architect is up to the job.

RIBA: Royal Institute of British Architects

Dating all the way back to 1837, the Royal Institute of British Architects is the UK's chartered body for architecture. It was founded to promote the advancement of architecture and maintain high-quality design and customer service.

Led by an elected president, the RIBA comprises a 60-member council, predominantly of chartered architects, who are responsible for monitoring members and the institution as a whole. There are more than 28,000 chartered members of the RIBA.

RIBA chartered membership is voluntary and is not a legal requirement to practise as an architect. However, registering allows an architect to use the term “chartered” and the RIBA suffix.

View James Brindley on RIBA’s member directory.

ARB: Architects Registration Board

The Architects Registration Board is the UK’s regulatory authority for architects. It was established by Parliament in 1997 to regulate architects to ensure good standards within the profession.

Although it is not essential to use an architect to design a building, the term “architect” is protected, and anyone who wishes to use it must be registered with the ARB to legally do so.

ARB ensures that all registered architects meet the required standards and have the necessary qualifications to practise, as well as upholding relevant legislation and investigating any complaints made against a member.

View James Brindley on ARB’s register.

BIID: British Institute of Interior Design

The British Institute of Interior Design is the only professional institute for interior designers in the UK.

While it’s not an essential requirement for architects, it’s a great addition to their CV. The rigorous entry requirements assess a member’s training, experience and professionalism, and BIID encourages members to continue their professional development throughout their career.

Working with a BIID-registered architect means that you’re getting a truly holistic approach to the overall design of your building. It also helps to reduce costs and simplify your project team, enabling your architect to take care of all aspects of interior design as well.

View James Brindley on BIID’s registry.

Work with a fully accredited architect

If you’re looking for a qualified architect that you can rely on, you’ll find it in Design Haus. I’m registered with ARB and BIID, and fully accredited by RIBA, so you know you’re in good hands when you put me in charge of your project.

Published by James Brindley in Advice, Working with architects

Tags: accreditations, Architect, Working with Architects

30 November 2020

Essential questions to ask your architect before starting a project

When you’re bringing an architect on board for a building project, no matter how big or small, there are a few essential questions that you should ask them before committing.

Make sure to speak to a few different architects before deciding who to go with. By asking them all the same questions, you’ll be better able to directly compare them and decide who’s best for the job at hand.

Do you have experience with this type of project?

Finding out whether an architect has worked on a similar type of project before is extremely beneficial when choosing who to go with.

While one architect’s fees may be lower, they may be less experienced in the required area than others. In this instance, you might benefit from paying more for the specialist expertise.

You should also ask to see examples from the architect’s portfolio of similar projects, and for references that you can follow up on.

How do you charge?

Not all architects charge the same way. Make sure you know what to expect from your architect’s fee structure.

Find out exactly what is included in the basic services, what would incur additional costs, and how the architect would deal with any unexpected costs.

It’s also worth clarifying whether the budget includes VAT, as this can make a huge difference in the quote.

What is the proposed timeline?

It’s always worth knowing roughly how long a project will take, though there should always be some leeway for unexpected issues.

Again, this is a good way to find out more about your architect. If you speak to one architect who quotes a much longer or shorter timeframe, ask for details as to why they think it will take this long. From the size of the team working on the project to the architect’s current workload, there are many reasons why you might receive a different answer from different practices, and these could inform your final decision.

What will you require from the architect throughout the project?

Some architects are more hands-on than others, handling all aspects of admin and communication between contractors.

If you’re busy or simply happy to delegate the project admin, this is the perfect solution. However, if you’d like to be heavily involved in the process throughout, this type of architect might not be for you.

It’s also worth asking what input you will be required to make for design decisions, and when, so you can make yourself available.

Who will be working on the project team?

It’s often the case that when you first meet with an architect, they aren’t the person that will actually end up working on your project.

Find out exactly who you will be working with, including any third parties and contractors. Making sure that you like and trust the people on your team is extremely important, especially for long-term builds.

Work with James Brindley of Design Haus

I pride myself in being the sole point of contact for my clients, so they always know exactly who to talk to at any stage of the project. I’ll be there from day one right through to project completion, answering questions and providing solutions whenever you need them.

If you’d like to work with a conscientious, hands-on architect, get in touch with me today.

Published by James Brindley in Advice, Home improvement, Working with architects

Tags: advice, Architect, Architecture, construction, Home Improvement, Working with Architects

30 November 2020

Do I need an architect?

If you’re looking to make changes to your existing home, you may be wondering whether you need an architect.

While many people believe that architects are only necessary for large projects such as designing buildings from scratch, they’re extremely useful for smaller home improvements, too.

How do I know if I need an architect?

Strictly speaking, there’s no legal requirement to hire an architect for a project. However, an architect is able to create designs, optimise space, handle project admin, manage your budget and ensure that the final build meets all necessary regulations.

There are four main types of project that especially benefit from the input of an architect:

1. Ideas and big-picture thinking

If you’re not sure what you want, or you have ideas but don’t know how to implement them, working with an architect is invaluable.

Not only will an architect be able to give you some insight into how much your project should cost and how long it will take, they can provide practical, creative and unique solutions.

Tell your architect what you’re looking to achieve and they’ll give you options on how to do it. Whether that’s bringing more light into your home, creating more space or incorporating a particular material, an architect has the expertise to turn your vision into reality.

2. Extensions and conversions

As these are significant additions to your home, discussing an extension or conversion with an architect will help to ensure the best outcome.

Not only can an architect help you to design the new addition, they can advise where best to locate it to ensure the maximum amount of light or to provide the most natural flow from room to room.

In particular, if your addition offers challenges such as tight spaces, unusual shapes or changes in floor level, it’s best to bring an architect on board.

3. Changing layouts and removing walls

If you’re thinking about moving or removing interior walls to open up a space, or adding or moving doors and windows, you’ll want to work with an architect.

Changing the layout of your home isn’t as simple as knocking down walls and rebuilding them elsewhere; there are a lot of technical considerations to protect the structural integrity of the building.

As well as advising you which changes are safe and practical, an architect can help you to create a space that works. How doors and windows interact with a room, and how the space is utilised can make or break its function and enjoyability.

4. Obtaining planning permission

Architects know which projects require planning permission, and how to apply for it. This can be a complicated and time-consuming process to do by yourself, so handing it over to an expert will allow you to relax.

Your architect can fill out all the paperwork and liaise with the council on your behalf, handling any necessary changes quickly and efficiently. This will help you to complete your build project on time and minimise the chance of rejection.

when to hire an architect

Here are some common household remodelling projects that would benefit from the input of an architect:

Extensions
Conservatories
Loft conversions
Barn conversions
Moving the location of a bathroom or kitchen
Changing the position of or knocking down interior walls
Installing a swimming pool
Large projects with multiple contractors
Projects that require planning permission

While smaller jobs might not require an architect, they are often well worth their fees to ensure a smooth-running project.

Do you need an architect?

If your project does require an architect, then get in touch to discuss your project and turn it from a dream into reality.

Published by James Brindley in Advice, Home improvement, Residential architecture, Working with architects

Tags: Architect, Extension, Planning Permission, Working with Architects

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