Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do I need an Architect?
Architects ensure that the work is done professionally and that it meets Building Control criteria. Architects assist in ensuring that the building is well-designed and realistic. An architect can also assist you in locating the best builder for your project and managing the project while staying within your budget.
2. Why do I need interior designer?
Interior designers ensure that interior spaces are safe and functional while also being elegantly furnished.
However, we prefer to collaborate with interior designers that can create their own design drawings. Samples are available upon request.
3. What is the procedure, and how does it work?
The first step is to meet with a member of our Design Team to go over your complete brief. Following that, we will prepare a pricing proposal for you.
To learn more about our method, visit our W1 Design process page by clicking here.
4. What is the initial meeting and consultation like?
You will meet with us for the first time to discuss your needs and ensure that you are hiring the correct architect for the project. We will talk about your ideas, concepts, and our experiences with them.
We will next submit a pricing proposal outlining what we expect our fees to be for the brief as stated, at each step of work. It will also explain what is and is not included in this amount, as well as what other fees and costs we would anticipate, such as Structural Engineers fees and planning application fees.
These will be provided to you for review, together with any other relevant documents or regulatory information.
5. What is involved in the design Process?
We will contact you after the initial meeting to ensure that you are totally satisfied. We will next create a client brief that includes drawings based on your ideas and thoughts, as well as budget and timeframe information.
6. How long does it take to complete the drawings and design?
This is determined by the size of the project and how long it takes the client to make a decision, among other factors. A timetable can be established after our initial meeting.
7. Do You Guarantee Planning Permission?
No, and no respectable architecture or planning company should guarantee planning permission.
Part of the service you are paying for includes local authority experience, knowledge of precedents in the region, bespoke designs, and technical skills – all of which affect a planning approval decision.
A professional architect will be able to consider all of these factors and create a design that is extremely likely to be approved by the local authorities, but there are no guarantees.
8. Do You Deal With Local Authority With Planning And Building Control?
No, and no respectable architecture or planning company should guarantee planning permission.
Part of the service you are paying for includes local authority experience, knowledge of precedents in the region, bespoke designs, and technical skills – all of which affect a planning approval decision.
A professional architect will be able to consider all of these factors and create a design that is extremely likely to be approved by the local authorities, but there are no guarantees.
9. What Do I Need To Know When It Comes To Planning Permission?
In order for your local government to grant you permission to begin construction, you must submit details about your proposed build to them. You will need: Planning permission to ensure that the structure you plan to build is appropriate for the area.
- a good design that improves the plot or streetscape;
- take into account how the construction may influence your neighbours;
- comprehensive knowledge of any planning policies affecting your area
If you are able to show to the planning officer that your planned project fits with their regulations, standards, and guidelines, they will grant you permission to begin construction.
Planning permission usually takes about eight weeks from submission to decision, although it might take up to 13 weeks in rare situations.
10. How do you charge for your projects?
Since every project is different and therefore every client is unique, our rates are based on your project requirements; we offer a flexible pricing model that allows you to pay a flat rate for each phase of your project and you can use us as sparingly or as extensively as you
11. What's my role in the design process?
Your architect will rely on you to express your design preferences, functional needs, and financial limitations. Your rapid responses to inquiries and design submissions will be helpful in keeping the project on schedule. It is also critical that you communicate any concerns you have as the project progresses so that they can be addressed as early as possible. You will contribute to the success of your project by collaborating with your architect.