Do I need to use the architect hired by the builder or an independent architect?
If you’re considering doing an extension or renovation homeowner are thinking of hiring a builder in one place that can handle the design and construction work for a set price. In the construction industry it is known as “design and build” and differs from the conventional method where you choose an architect/designer to carry out the drawing and design first. Then, you obtain quotes and choose your builder. The “design and build” method offers cost certainty early on and an easy person to contact. This is attractive and may be the right choice for you. But, it shouldn’t be considered casually. The purpose in this post is to provide you all the data that you require to make the best choice for your specific project.
Cons and pros of “design and build’ as opposed to the traditional way of doing it
1. The traditional way to travel
(Using the services of an architect, designer or other independent)
What’s the procedure?
You select an independent architect / design professional.
They analyze your requirements and present to you a concept design the concept of a design.
After a meeting, they will are then required to submit plans (if necessary).
They then draw up sketches and a specification for the construction.
The set of documents are packaged and handed to the builders you choose to get their estimates and timeframes.
If the quote of a builder is satisfactory, you’ll enter into a contract, and construction work can begin.
Benefits of the traditional way Design quality and the ability to adapt
1. The choice of designer or architect
Instead of being assigned your builder’s design team You are free to pick the most suitable designer for your individual needs, style and budget. A professional with experience will be able to provide the most appealing style for your project with a price you feel at ease with. They’ll suggest where to spend and how to save money, so that you can get a house you enjoy.
2. Your designer or architect works for you, not for your builder.
Your builder’s in-house designer is likely to be seeking ways to cut costs for the builder. However, this could not yield the most effective design possible for your needs. A professional architect is not bound by any other motive other than creating the most effective design that you can within the budget you have set.
3. The process of changing your mind doesn’t have to be as costly as you might think. when you design and build
At the point that your builder comes in with your design, you’ll have been through a meticulous design process . At this point , you’ll be content with your designs to ensure that you receive an accurate estimate for your construction company. But, it’s fairly easy to request adjustments after this point since your builder will let know the costs in the course of.
(where the loft or builder company has an in-house an affiliated design expert)
It is recommended to approach design and construction firms at the start in your plan.
After the initial meetings(s) They give you a one-time quote of the whole project that includes the designer’s fee and you agree to a contract.
You begin the design process with the designer.
Once they have reached an agreement, they can make plans (if needed).
The design process continues, sometimes interspersed with the construction.
You can find out more at www.studio-perfectus.co.uk
Benefits of design and construction Quick, simple and cost-effective
1. It’s quick
This is one of the major advantages having one stop shop to design and construct your extension. Loft companies, for instance are able to complete each project in a short amount of time. Do not expect any or design awards However, they are aware of what is effective and how to construct efficiently and in the most cost-effective and time-efficient manner.
2. One point of contact
Many homeowners appreciate the ease of dealing with a single company. There is less risk of confusion and miscommunication throughout the process. This alone accelerates the process and means less headaches for you.
3. You sign a fixed price in advance.
Cost certainty is a major benefit of designing and building method. However, note that I’m not saying that it’s more expensive in the end; more about this below.
Do you think it is cheaper to go with an engineering and design company?
There’s no definitive solution unfortunately. It’s a myth to believe that you’re saving on architect’s charges. Instead your builder will add this to their estimate.
The benefit of having a designer and builder working together is that, together they will be able to determine the most cost-effective approach to creating your extension. A portion of the savings (hopefully) will be passed on to you via their estimate. When they do this, they could choose to build with cheaper materials, which may not be the most effective. It’s true that it may be less expensive, but there’s certain to be a factor of ‘you get what spend for’.
However, because the costs are fixed early in the process of design with construction and design making changes to the details of your plan can cost more as opposed to the traditional approach.
Before you designate someone to do the design work, you should have a checklist
If you choose to work with an architect who is independent or a design expert or partner with a design-and- build firm, it’s worthwhile to keep these considerations in your head:
Do they have adequate insurance to cover you from a mistake during their tasks (Professional Indemnity Insurance)?
If the drawings or specifications are not suitable for construction. Instead, the design responsibility could be transferred to your builder. For instance, an architectural designer might prepare preliminary drawings for the purpose of planning. The contractor would then create the design into detailed drawings of construction and be liable in their own design insurance (note that this insurance must specifically cover design responsibility, which is distinct from the typical coverage for construction-related liability).
Have they completed similar projects previously? Request examples during your meeting.
Request references from their past clients.