Why Use an Architect?
- Maximising Value: If you engage an Architect you are optimising delivery of a better end product.
- Maximising Benefits: Architects are highly trained (usually 7 years or more), and are especially good as seeing the “bigger picture”. Specific benefits to you could be, for example, in maximising functionality of space, in providing design options that you may not have thought of yourself, maximising inflow of natural light, ensuring ‘ a good feel’, and that the design for your house or business is optimised for your specific needs and aspirations.
- An Architect will guide you through the key design stages, eg, concept design/feasibility stage, planning and construction process, whether your project is a new build or a refurbishment.
- An Architect can advise on, and collaborate with, other consultants: Many larger projects will require a Structural Engineer, a Mechanical and Services Engineer, a Quantity Surveyor, Tree Specialist, Planning Consultant, Ecologists, Archaeologists… Architects are usually the lead consultant coordinating the various specialist inputs.
- An Architect can also help you with the Tendering Process, helping you to find the best builder for your project and overseeing the works as they progress through the various stages, if required.
- Statutory Regulations: As well as overseeing the design elements, Architects can ensure that you meet the necessary statutory obligations, such as planning application criteria, listed building and conservation area criteria, etc. They can also advise on other consultants that you may need to meet such requirements.
At Strado, for example, David Duvall, has had a long term partnering relationship with Liverpool Building Control, meaning that he can work with the same personnel in Liverpool regardless of where your project may be in the UK. This helps to ensure a ‘right first time’ delivery, with any potential challenges ironed out early on.
"A good architect actually pays for themselves - more than once. You will reap the reward and the building will be hugely better and deliver much better value for it."
Kevin McCloud, Grand Designs
- A right first time approach can also be achieved by using an architect, whose professionalism in the design aspects can often avoid potentially costly mistakes. The Architect should be able to advise on details that you may not have thought about, ranging from ensuring there’s somewhere to put the toothbrush and shaving brush to planning for the next phase of building on a site.
- Insurance Cover Reassurances: Architects are subject to a statutory code of practice and are required to have Professional Indemnity Insurance to protect their clients. Please ask to see the Strado certification at any time.
