Architect recomendations for loft conversion?

[Dex10]

Hi all... after yesterdays useful advice on Mac vs PCs i though i would tap into the NSC fountain of knowledge on loft conversions.

To start with we would like an idea of what may be possible with the roof space and for this I presume an architect is the way to go. Are there any local architects out there that anyone would recommend? - also am I correct in thinking that the initial 'sketch' is usually free of charge in order to assist in making a decision?... many thanks for any advice.

 

[Herr Tubthumper]

I'd try Frank Gehry.

 

[algie]

Surely a decent builder would do this?

 

[Hatterlovesbrighton]

Surely a decent builder would do this?

There are plenty of loft extension specialists out there. I'd ask them rather than an architect

 

[Fountainhead]

Dex10

I am an Architect but I would actually go down the specialist loft conversion contractor route. Make sure you get references and that they can undertake the planning( If required) and the Building Regulation applications for you. It may be worth getting 2 or 3 quotes.

Some loft conversions will not need Planning permission - if you go to planningportal.gov.uk and look at the 'interactive house' it will set out the criteria.

If that fails try Martin Perry - hes got time on his hands now!

 

[Bold Seagull]

There are plenty of loft extension specialists out there. I'd ask them rather than an architect

You won't get as competitive a price that way in a lot of cases. If you went to 2 or 3 loft extension specialists, they are pricing on assumptions at the start. Once they start drawing plans up then they are proposing what is good for them inside the price they have given you.

An architect, building technician or surveyor will draw up what you want, and will explore solutions you may not have thought of or considered. Once a set of drawings has detailed everything out, they will send out to tender to builders for prices that are based on a specification and so each builder is pricing the same thing, and will build what is specified, not what suits their profit margin.

Both routes may well deliver similar results, but I'd always feel more comfortable with a professional acting on my behalf telling the builder what to do, rather than an all in one builder doing everything.

 

[CAPTAIN GREALISH]

no architect tells a builder what to do a drawing is what it is. his job is to get it through planing after that the builder is responsable and only answers to the building inspector

 

[sydney]

an architect will cost you 2 k probably , try premier loft conversions , worthing based , sorry you didn't say where you are.

 

[wehatepalace]

My brother - law is a loft conversion specialist, apparently he's very good and has a good reputation I'll PM you his number.

 

[Bold Seagull]

no architect tells a builder what to do a drawing is what it is. his job is to get it through planing after that the builder is responsable and only answers to the building inspector

If an architect or surveyor produces a set of drawings and specification which would include fixing instructions, type of timber to use, waterproofing details, then the client and contractor will enter into a contract for example a JCT Minor Works, or JCT Home Owner Contract, whereby the contractor is bound under the terms of the contract to build exactly what is in the contract drawings and specification.

A Building Inspector only inspects the works for compliance with the building regulations. He is not required to identify poor workmanship or quality unless it effects the building regulations. The builder can therefore make something look like a right pigs ear but as long as it complies, the building inspector will be happy.

Anyone who wishes to spend between £30 - 50k on a conversion to their property, and trust the builder to make the correct decisions on quality, suitability of products and their correct installation etc. is up to them. Personally, I'd rather spend a couple of grand to ensure that the addition to my property is going to be nicely detailed, and look as attractive as possible, rather than let a contractor make all the critical decisions.

That said, many loft companies will employ a 3rd party architect to do the drawings for them, so they certainly are an option. I would definitely ask to see some of their work, and either speak to previous clients or see their references.

 

[Triggaaar]

no architect tells a builder what to do a drawing is what it is. his job is to get it through planing after that the builder is responsable and only answers to the building inspector

Architects do tell builders what to do if that's what the client has arranged. And builders mainly answer to their client (or their client's advisors etc), not to the building inspector. It's easy to get loads of bodges past a building inspector, it's up to the client to make sure they're happy with the work the builder is doing.