Project types where an architect is most valuable
A guide to help you decide when an architect’s services would be useful.
In this article, we explore the most common building and alteration project types and offer our advice on when the support of an architect would be valuable.
Project types and situations explored:
Extensions and conversions
Interior alterations
Adding a workspace, gym, studio or accommodation within your garden
You simply aren’t sure where to start
When should I use an architect?
The short answer is it depends. It depends on the scale and nature of your project, your own experience and how much risk you personally want to take on.
Some people only consider an architect essential for large scale projects such as extensions, conversions or building a new home. But you would be surprised by how complicated it can be to alter an existing home and how useful an architect can be on ‘simple’ projects.
To help you determine whether your project would benefit from an architect’s services, we have pulled this short guide together. Search by project type below to see our advice.
If you decide you need an architect, well, we know of a firm we can recommend 😉.
Extending or converting your home
If you are planning an extension or conversion to your home of the nature in the list below, we would recommend you seek the services of an architect.
Single storey extension
Two-storey extension
Loft conversion
Garage conversion
Basement conversion
Annex or Granny flat
Advice
Use an architect.
Reason
Any changes which affect the exterior of your building are likely to require planning permission. We recommend working with an architect to have the best shot at achieving planning permission.
We are experienced in working with local authorities and the dark art of planning. We can develop a design that balances your local planning department’s requirements with your own aspirations.
Also, all the projects listed above will require extensive building works, in this situation we would recommend you keep your architect on board to secure a building warrant and potentially throughout the construction phase.
Interior alterations
Depending on the scale of your alterations, you may benefit from using an architect.
If you are looking to remodel your kitchen or bathroom without major alterations to the layout, then the support of a good quality builder should be more than adequate.
However, if your plans involve more significant alterations such as the items listed below, we recommend you meet with an architect to discuss your aspirations first.
Knocking down or moving walls
Adding or removing doors
Adding or removing windows
Replanning multiple rooms
Advice
Seek an architect’s opinion before embarking on the project.
Reason
An architect can help you to develop your ideas, spot any missed opportunities and help you achieve a better result.
As specialists in building design, we can lend an experienced hand to problem solving issues of space, light and flow through a home.
We also have expert knowledge of building legislation and can steer you away from any design updates to your home that would make your property non-complaint, protecting the value of your home.
Adding a workspace, gym, studio or accommodation within your garden
As house prices continue to rise, we are witnessing an increasing number of homeowners invest in their current property to maximise the space available.
A popular option to add more space to an existing home is to add a garden studio. Whether to serve as a home office, creative space, gym or additional accommodation, garden studios are on the rise in the UK.
If you are considering the addition of a garden studio, we recommend you meet with an architect to discuss your aspirations first.
Advice
Seek an architect’s opinion before embarking on the project.
Reason
Although considerably more affordable than buying a bigger house, a garden studio can be a significant investment. We therefore take the approach of ensuring our customers plan for the long term. We look at how this new addition can serve you for the next 5, 10, 15+ years of your life, and help you to stay in your home for longer.
We specialise in the design of small, modular spaces and have designed garden studios and luxury holiday units all over Scotland. We develop highly flexible studios that provide versatility to be used in many ways as your needs change.
A conversation with an architect about your vision and budget may help you to achieve a studio that works far beyond solving your current pain point.
You are not sure where to start
Our customers tell us that one of the biggest benefits of working with us is that we give their ideas structure. They enjoy being guided through the process to take their idea from concept to construction.
If you have ideas for home improvements but don't know where to start, we recommend talking to an architect as a first point of call. An architect can quickly help you do the following:
Refine your ideas and spot any challenges or missed opportunities.
Provide guidance on what will or won’t need planning permission.
Provide a concept design to visualise your end goal.
Help you determine a budget.
Advice
Most architects offer a free initial consultation, so we urge you to reach out and get some free advice from the experts.
Reason
A good architect will give you an honest appraisal of whether your project would benefit from their input or if you simply need to chat to a builder or other relevant trades person. We certainly operate this way!
If your project would benefit from an architect’s input, then enjoy having the experience of a specialist to hold your hand through the process.
For customers who need support to refine their ideas we offer a feasibility study. This is a short creative process where we explore what can be done within your given space, brief and budget. We produce a document that guides you through what is possible.
For a breakdown of what is included in a feasibility study and the services we provide at each stage of a project, please see our services page.
Summary
To wrap things up, below we have listed the project types and situations where we recommend you talk to an architect before embarking on your project.
Your project requires planning permission.
Large scale projects - these are likely to require planning permission and potentially building warrants.
Interior alterations which go beyond re-modelling a single room.
Garden rooms and studios.
You are simply not sure where to start.
If you fall into any of these categories and are based in Scotland we would love to help you.
Conversations are free and we are here for all your ideas. Get in touch here.
