Starting a construction project in London can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re hiring an architect for the first time. Building a solid relationship with your architect can ease your worries and help you achieve the results you really want for your project. A good architect will assist you in refining your ideas, securing planning permission, figuring out the construction details, finding a builder, and making sure that the work being done meets your expectations.
Beyond these practical aspects, they will also create an amazing design that will truly enhance your home. Luckily for you, our experts at Detailed Planning have compiled a list of 10 top tips to give you the confidence to not only get exactly what you want but also pick the best architect in North London.
1. Hire A Local Architect Early In Your Project
Finding a great builder in Lonon is definitely possible, but if you approach them without a complete set of drawings and specifications, you risk not getting the best value for your investment. You might end up committing to a builder without knowing if they’ll provide a good design or charge fair prices.
One way to ensure you get the best price for the best quality is to go straight to an experienced and Detailed Planning consultant, float your ideas and get a proper drawing made with all detailed specifications exactly to your taste and within reason of your physical ability to have it built. Our team will also contact the builders on your behalf at your request and make sure they are fully on board with the specifics of your project.
2. Make Sure You’re Working With a Qualified Architect
Always verify the qualifications of any professionals you plan to hire. There are plenty of architecture firms in London that offer services for home improvement projects, but only qualified architects can officially use the title. Be cautious of companies or individuals calling themselves ‘architectural designers’, ‘architectural consultants’, or ‘architectural technicians’, as they might not have the necessary credentials.
In the UK, anyone who uses the title of architect must complete a rigorous training programme, including 5 years of undergraduate study certified by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and completing at least 2 years of practical experience. This ensures they have not only strong design skills but also knowledge of building construction, architectural history, project management, contract law, and health and safety regulations.
It is widely believed that the best modern architecture in London comes from specialised architects, especially when working on projects like extensions that need to blend with period homes, which are quite common in North London. A professional architect like those from Detailed Planning, a registered member of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) with a team of highly skilled and dedicated architectural technologists and designers, will not only understand what will enhance the existing structure but also the legal and structural requirements for various types of properties.
3. Finalising The Design With Your Architect
Once you’ve chosen an architect, they will start working on the plans for your project. This usually involves a back-and-forth process as you work together to finalise the design. Ideally, the architect will present a few different options for you to consider, although they will likely share their own preferences as well. Once you agree on the plans, a great architecture firm will not only have in-house feasibility studies to make sure all opportunities and constraints have been identified and explored as well as planning permission experts to apply for planning permission if required.
After that, the architect will design and create detailed plans. These will serve as guidelines for the builders, outlining how to meet the necessary building regulations. Make sure you make your project timescales clear from the beginning, as this can impact the complexity of the design and allow you, as the customer, to control the output.
4. Work With a Local Architecture Firm in North London That’s Right For Your Project
Residential architects in North London provide a variety of services specifically designed for your project needs. While architects are well-known for their design skills, their role goes beyond just that. They can help you determine if you need a planning application and guide you through the sometimes complicated approval process. Since local architects often work with planning officers, they understand how to present your project in a way that maximises the chances of approval.
Additionally, they will ensure your project meets strict building regulations, which cover aspects like structural integrity, energy efficiency, and safety measures in case of a fire. Your architect will also create detailed plans and work with you to outline everything contractors need to know when estimating their costs. This way, you can maximise the chances of unexpected costs popping up once the construction begins. Many architects also offer contract management services, where they conduct quality control checks and verify builders’ payment requests.
5. See The Value In Your Architect
It can be tricky to grasp the value of hiring a domestic architect in North London. Unlike visible projects like painting a wall or laying bricks, the benefits of an architect aren’t always obvious at first. But it’s important to recognise that there’s a big difference between a cheap service and one that truly delivers value.
When you hire an architect, you’re investing in their skills, creativity, and professional know-how, not just their time. Going for a low-cost option from an unqualified designer might seem like a good idea, but it could lead to poor-quality work and a rushed job. This can result in missed chances for a great design and even costly problems down the line that could run you thousands to fix. On the flip side, if you choose a qualified professional, you’ll likely get a better deal from builders, avoid unnecessary risks, and make improvements to your home that really boost its value.
Go With Your Gut
At the end of the day, it’s all about who you feel will nurture you and your ideas the most. Our Detailed Planning team has just under 20 years of experience designing extensions, remodels and renovations in North London and has truly seen it all. We are always levelling up our game and can’t wait to work with you to create the space of your dreams. If you need a dedicated expert in architectural design in North London, get in touch today to discuss the process, from the design phase, planning phase, and technical phase to the further project assistance phase. We’ve got you covered!
