There is a common perception that hiring an architect is prohibitively expensive. This article aims to demystify the costs associated with architectural services, particularly during the initial design stage, which is a crucial first step in transforming your ideas into actionable plans for your building project.
Choosing an architect is a significant decision, as this partnership can last several years and involves substantial financial commitment. The initial interaction typically involves discussing your vision and the architect presenting a fee proposal.
This initial stage often starts at £1,500 plus VAT, varying widely between practices. Some offer 3D visuals while others provide a single design concept to initiate the project.
Architects may begin with a brief visit to discuss potential fees without a complete understanding of the project’s design possibilities. This approach can seem premature, like a doctor suggesting a treatment without a full diagnosis.
Fees are usually based on the anticipated design complexity or budget percentages, which can sometimes feel abstract and speculative.
Stage 3 Planning - £3,000.00
Stage 4 Technical Design - Building Regs - £4,500.00
Stage 4 Technical Design - Tender Package - £3,750.00
Stage 5 Construction - £6,480.00
Total = £18,568.80
All Prices INCLUDE VAT.
Stage 3 Planning - £4,500.00
Stage 4 Technical Design - Building Regs - £6,750.00
Stage 4 Technical Design - Tender Package - £8,250.00
Stage 5 Construction - £12,900.00
Total = £33,238.80
All Prices INCLUDE VAT.
Stage 3 Planning - £6,000.00
Stage 4 Technical Design - Building Regs - £9,000.00
Stage 4 Technical Design - Tender Package - £9,750.00
Stage 5 Construction - £32,400.00
Total = £58,348.80
All Prices INCLUDE VAT.
Stage 3 Planning - £9,000.00
Stage 4 Technical Design - Building Regs - £12,750.00
Stage 4 Technical Design - Tender Package - £15,000.00
Stage 5 Construction - £50,700.00
Total = £88,648.80
All Prices INCLUDE VAT.
Architect Your Home revolutionises the initial consultation process and have options starting at £838.80 for an initial 4hr design consultation.
During this four-hour visit, which is ideal for single-level renovations, clients receive tangible sketches and a clear direction for their project’s next steps.
This session includes a thorough exploration of design possibilities within the client’s budget, ensuring compatibility and understanding between client and architect.
This consultation is not just about sketching potential designs; it’s also an opportunity to gauge the working relationship with your architect. The aim is to establish a clear pathway for the project, considering it’s likely your second-largest investment after purchasing your property.
Architect Your Home understand that any potential home improvement or refurbishment project can go hand-in-hand with common daunting misconceptions. With this in mind they also offer a you a free 15-minute 1-1 phone call with an architect to help answer any initial concerns or queries you may have relating to your project.
Post-design, the architect will outline a transparent fee structure for navigating through the necessary approvals and construction phases.
Architect Your Home offers an hourly rate for these services, providing clients control over their budget and avoiding the pitfalls of fixed percentage fees.
Clients can customise their involvement with the architect based on their needs and project complexity, informed by the insights gained during the initial session.
This flexibility ensures that clients only pay for the services they require.
For a modest rear extension, the initial design consultation costs typically less than 0.5% of the total build cost but provides invaluable guidance. This investment offers:
Investing in a detailed architectural consultation helps mitigate risks and provides a solid foundation for your project. For just £838.30 including VAT, this initial step is a proven strategy that has benefited over 8,500 clients in the past 20 years, ensuring that projects start on the right foot.
This article not only clarifies the costs involved in hiring an architect but also highlights the value of an informed start to your building project.
