Welcome to the first chapter of our 'Ultimate Guide To Building Your Dream Home'. In this chapter we explore your first and most important decision and one that will make the difference between an okay home or having the home of your dreams and so much more.
Where to begin
If you are reading this guide you will have already made a good start by checking out architects to work with. This is probably the most important decision to make when undertaking a dream home building project. The architect is often involved for the long haul from project inception through to handover and it’s very important that there is a good ‘fit’ between you and your architect. To narrow down your choice in the search for the ideal architect we recommend asking the following 5 questions:
1. Are they an architect?
We hear many stories of people who hire someone thinking they are an architect only to discover, when the project has not lived up to their expectations, that they are in fact not an architect - usually they are an ‘architectural designer, architectural technologist, a surveyor or simply a ‘plan-drawer’. This mistake can lead to poor design, sub-standard building performance, delays with planning permission and the abortive costs of paying for your non-architect. The title ‘Architect’ is protected by law in the UK. To call yourself an Architect you have to be registered with the Architect’s Registration Board who will ensure an Architect has the high training and qualifications necessary, holds appropriate insurance and adheres to the professional standards set out in the Architect’s Code. By selecting a registered Architect you will be choosing a higher standard of design and ultimately a higher standard of build. Also, in the unlikely event that something should go wrong during construction, your investment will be protected and the architect will be held accountable for any breaches in the Code.
Architect’s may also be members of the Royal Institute of British Architects or operate an RIBA Chartered Practice like ourselves. Membership demonstrates commitment to the highest professional and ethical standards. Clients that choose an RIBA Chartered practice can expect the best service and an attention to detail that could make your dream house a showcase or possibly even the recipient of an award.
2. What’s their experience and are they specialists?
Even if you hire a qualified architect you may find that your expectations are not met due to their lack of experience with high-end residential projects or they are not specialists in low energy design. Although the training to become an architect is a lengthy seven years, the hands-on training really only begins after qualification and it can take many further years of design, technical understanding and on-site experience to provide a reliable, wholistic service from start to finish. Architects will often rise to the challenge of a new project, but you probably don’t want your dream home to be their first.
Some architects specialise in shops, offices or large scale residential developments and may be able to adapt their knowledge, but designing and building a bespoke home needs a different level of understanding and a unique set of skills to deliver a comfortable home that responds to the needs of the occupants. If your architect’s specialism is sustainability like ours, this can be a bonus if you’re looking to both reduce your energy costs and improve the health of your indoor environments.
3. What scale of project are they used to?
An architect who mostly works on small extensions and alterations may not be a suitable choice for a new-build with a much larger budget than they are used to working with. Conversely a large scale practice rarely works on one-off new houses and may find such a project economically challenging leading to a lack of attention and possible delays. An architect who works mostly on projects of your scale will be the architect best suited to deliver an appropriate design, will dedicate the required attention and will have the right experience to manage your project from inception through to completion.
4. Will they provide a full service?
We occasionally hear stories of architects who abandon their projects after planning permission has been gained leaving their clients struggling to find another architect to take on their work. Some architects prefer to focus on providing specific services such as only preparing planning applications or may decline work once a project is on site and under construction. Clients will always benefit from choosing an architect who will provide a full service from initial consultation through the design and technical phases to on site inspections and handover.
5. Are they a good ‘fit’ for you?
Your chosen architect may be qualified, experienced in your project type and scale and may provide a full service but are they a good fit for you? Sometimes people complain that their architect is not listening to them and they they don’t feel like there is a synergy between them. It’s important to work with an architect who is on the ‘same page’ as you in terms of your vision, your hopes and your aspirations for the project. The creation of a new home will be one of your most personal life projects and may possibly be undertaken only once in your lifetime so it’s vital to carefully select an architect that can communicate effectively and understand your deepest desires, will patiently listen to your needs and can translate a vision into your perfect home.
Highest professional standards
Koru Architects are not only members of the RIBA, but our firm is also an RIBA Chartered Practice so you will benefit from the highest professional standards an architect can deliver.
We are specialists in the design of low energy, bespoke homes built from natural materials and have over 20 years of experience providing our clients and their families with beautifully designed healthy and sustainable homes.
Our comprehensive service will lead you through the process from start to finish so you can be confident that the design you want will be carried through to the construction and handover.
If you’d like to start a conversation to see if we are a ‘good fit’ we’ll be happy to book in a video meeting to see if we can help.
Please contact us at: info@koruarchitects.co.uk or call us on: 01273 204065
You can find the second chapter of our guide here: 'Finding Somewhere To Build Your Dream Home'
