Planning a major renovation or project at your home or business? If so, you’re going to need to hire an architect. There are countless benefits to hiring a professional that will make everything from planning to finishing your project as smooth as possible. Below you’ll discover the steps involved when you hire an architect.
Book a Consultation
When you book your initial consultation, you can expect a qualified professional to visit your house at your convenience. You’ll sit down and talk about your goals and objectives with your project. This is the most important time for you hiring an architect because it gives you the chance to discuss the details of your project. The best architects will be able to help you develop your ideas into a practical plan. Make sure you review all your documents and existing conditions before your meeting. That way, you’re guaranteed to get the most out of the consultation.
Planning
The next stage in the process will involve the architect going off and designing their plans. You should keep in regular contact to make sure their blueprints are aligned with your ideas. This is especially important because it’s often difficult to articulate exactly what you want in the first meeting. The more you keep in touch with your architect, the more likely they are going to get your designs just right.
Reviewing the Design
After the architect has finished their design, you’ll meet for a second consultation. This is where you review and finalise the plans. Once you’ve approved everything, the next steps involve notifying your neighbours. You should have all the details outlined when you first sign up for architectural services with whichever company you choose. Then you’ll need to make sure that all your plans fit in accordance with your property boundaries and doesn’t violate any laws. Next, you’ll build your story poles which will outline the basic structure of what the project will look like. Once you and the neighbours approve this, you’ll submit an application to the Planning Department. You might have to wait a few weeks (sometimes longer) to get the permission to move forward. Anticipate that this part of the project will take the longest. And you might need to make several minor changes to meet with the local authorities conditions.
Construction
Your architect will help coordinate the construction process including all aspect of design development. The company will also finalise all the mechanical, electrical and plumbing plans so that the process of construction goes smoothly. Architects will periodically visit the building site to ensure that construction goes according to the design plans. This is one of the biggest benefits of hiring a professional. All the small details will be taken care of so you can sit back and watch your project come to fruition. When the construction is completed, you can ask for the detailed calculations on energy consumption along with copies of all the documents.
Top Tips to Get the Best Value
You should have a clear idea of what your budget is before you book a consultation. Designing and construction often cost significantly more than your initial estimation. All you have to do is look at all the abandoned buildings sites throughout any city to understand this. Speak to your bank and make sure that you can secure any loans. Make sure you know what your maximum budget is. Then deduct at least 10% to factor in any unexpected costs along the way.
The best way to guarantee you’ll hire the right architect? Do your research upfront. The more time you put into finding the architect, the better chance you’ll have finding the right one. Some are more qualified at certain aspects of their designs. If you’re looking for someone who’s a bit more of a specialist, it pays to invest the time before hiring. You can call them directly and get a feel for what they’re like. And make sure you find testimonials from their previous customers.
Hiring an Architect to Help You With Your Project
The biggest advantage of hiring a professional is that you can guarantee your project will run smoothly. Everything will be taken care of, with you in charge at every step of the way. If you’re going to invest in a major project, it’s better to get a specialist architect who can make sure your visions become a reality. More importantly, in a way that’s as stress-free and convenient for you.