General Advise from Chief Architectural Ltd
If you are looking to make an appointment with an architect to design your loft conversion or extension, you should first research architects in your area who specialise in these types of projects. You can also look for recommendations from friends and family, or search online for architects with good reviews and portfolios that showcase their work.
During your initial appointment with the architect, you should discuss your goals and ideas for the loft conversion or extension. This will help the architect understand your vision and come up with a design that meets your needs. The architect will assess the type of house you have and the feasibility of a loft conversion or extension.
If you are considering a loft conversion, the architect will need to assess the existing structure of your home to determine if it can support the additional weight of a conversion. They will also need to consider the layout and size of the space to create a design that maximises the available area. An architect designing an extension would consider your neighbours in several ways. Firstly, they would likely want to ensure that the extension does not have a negative impact on your neighbours’ properties. This could involve designing the extension in a way that does not block their views or light, or does not encroach on their property lines.
When discussing planning permission and building regulations, the architect will inform you about any requirements for obtaining planning permission from your local council. They will also ensure that the design complies with building regulations, which are legal requirements that ensure the safety and accessibility of the building.
If you decide to move forward with the project, the architect can help you find a contractor or specialist to carry out the work. They can provide recommendations based on their experience working with local contractors and ensure that the contractor is experienced and insured.
Finally, you should discuss how soon you want the work done and the estimated timeline for completion. The architect will take into consideration any deadlines you have and create a realistic timeline for the project.
In summary, making an appointment with an architect about designing a loft conversion or extension involves discussing your goals, the feasibility of the project, planning permission and building regulations, and employing a specialist to carry out the work. It is important to choose an architect who is experienced in this type of project and can help you create a design that meets your needs and fits within your budget and timeline.
