Architect

[Bazile]

We are looking to do a single storey extension across the rear of our house

We need an architect to do some drawings

How do we find a good one - where do we look and what to look out for ?

[The Builder]

What you definitely do not want, Baz, is a fully qualified architect.
In my experience, they often take over any project with their own "artistic visualisations."

Look for an architectural consultant/technician/designer.
They are not allowed to call themselves architects, so that's how they tend to get around it.
It's a pity you don't live near Jack The Hat. She is exactly what you want.
Legwork, Baz... asking around. Ask local builders/builders' merchants. Also look in local advertising... parish mags. That kind of thing.
Also try looking at your local Planning Dept.'s list of planning applications. (Look for "Agent")

Somebody near you will know of someone. I guarantee it.

[HansUrbancka]

I have appended what I think is an excellent link which discusses all items which are relevant to your proposed property extension. The following is a quote which is in the article concerned;-

//For most single storey extensions an architect is not necessary. Most experienced builders will be happy to work without one. If, however, you have unusual plans or very specific needs, it can be a good idea to use the services of an architect. //

In my opinion, if there is a good building firm in your area, that is a starting point for discussing matters. Personally, if possible, I would refrain from architects, which could add a high percentage of costs to your proposed extension.

https://www.myjobquote.co.uk/costs/single-story-extension

It would be interesting to hear what Answerbank's member 'The Builder' has to say on the matter; if by chance he sees your posting.

Best Wishes......Hans.

[HansUrbancka]

@The Builder....You beat me to it by a minute. :-)
Hans.

[teacake44]

I saw Boris at school on TV the other day, in the classroom drawing a picture of a house. :0)

[youngmafbog]

What is it you want them for - Planning permission?

You dont have to have an architect you can do it yourself. Our local Council will also help you - for a small fee to submit the right things.

[The Builder]

Hiya Hans.
The main thing that a builder would not be terribly interested in is the matter of drawings. I've done them myself in the past, for extensions. All to scale etc, but a proper designer would make a much better job of it.

If Planning Consent is not needed, then I, and many others would gladly work without drawings. I tend to use a "Building Notice" instead of a full Building Regs application. That simply because I work easily with the local Inspectors, and we agree how to deal with the Regs on-site.

Of course, this depends on the complexity of the job. A simple three-sided extension and a roof are pretty straightforward. But, if actual design is needed, and it often is, then a designer is the best way to go.

[teacake44]

Forgot to add, it was only a front elevation.

[Bazile]

Thanks all

It's a three sided wall extension on a standard semi detached

You come in through the front door into the hallway with the stairs on the right , bit further down on the right ,is a pantry and directly at the end of the hallway is the door leading into the kitchen

We want to turn the pantry into a toilet /shower room and the outside back wall
of the kitchen will need to be opened up into the extension , which will run the full width of the back of the house

Hence our thinking that we would need some drawings

[The Builder]

Further to my earlier post, Baz, I think you would be wise to have drawings made, plus a "schedule of works".

Nothing to do with Planning or Building Regs though. I just think that, given what you've just posted, the builder would definitely need a drawing & schedule in order to work out the quotation.
Without these, you, and the builder are open to possible dispute.
You know the sort of things I mean...
"I said I wanted it over there..."
"no you didn't. I thought you meant over here" etc etc

[Bazile]

Thank you TB, sir

[HansUrbancka]

G'afternoon The Builder. I am pleased that you have come in on this thread because I knew that you would give far better advice than i could from searching the Internet.

It comforts me to know that you and I are in agreement that an Architect is Not needed. Nevertheless, as you have said ....//I think you would be wise to have drawings made, plus a "schedule of works".//

Hans.

[Captain2]

Personally, I go for a qualified (RICS) Building Surveyor; projects such as this are their bread and butter. They'll draw up any required drawings, get them through approvals, draw up a Schedule of Works, obtain and report on quotations and, if need be, Project Manage the job. Please though do enter into a written contract with the contractor before work starts - it can save major headaches later. (I was a Quantity Surveyor and got numerous calls such as 'we verbally agreed £3K and now he wants £4K, any contract?, no we were friends - but you aren't now are you).

[The Builder]

Thank you Hans. My pleasure ;o)

Captain.
A very good point. My own house (finished two years ago) was drawn up by a Chartered Structural Engineer friend of mine, and I designed the internal layout.
The Engineer was needed because it's timber-framed, but with a lot of structural steel beams.

Your post reminded me that there are other routes to take than going for a full-blown architect.