Unless you’ve done a big home project before, you might find yourself bamboozled by the list of professionals your extension or conversion might need. Especially when it comes to structural engineers.
While many people have heard the term architect before, structural engineers have yet to make their way into popular culture. However, which one do you need? Both? One? Neither?!
If you want some clarity, here’s everything you’ll need to know...
What an architect does
Architects are famous for their keen eye for design, and it’s true - we’re pretty good at making things look good. However, architects are no one trick pony. In fact, an architect could help you throughout your project.
Starting out, they’ll be one of the first professionals you take on, guiding you through the possible design ideas and bringing your future space to life with architectural drawings (maybe even 3D models). It’s these renderings that will be packaged up and submitted for planning permission, another service an architect provides.
Then, once your plans have the go-ahead, an architect can help prepare the technical drawings you’ll need at the building regulations stage. This is a crucial (and legally required) step, whereby you must demonstrate either to your local building control or an approved inspector that your home will continue to be a safe and healthy environment for you and your neighbours.
Lastly, with the last of your permissions granted, an architect can be on hand to help construction get off without a hitch. This could be through introductions to tried and tested contractors or by providing site visits to make sure the construction is up to scratch.
