Your project is big enough to require an architect. Picking the right architect can make all the difference to the end result of your house renovation so we have compiled a list of 7 things not to say to your architect.
Choosing an architect with whom you can talk through different aspects of your renovation is a key component of how the end project looks but there are certain things off limits to say.
If you have found an architect, that you think will be somebody you can work with, the last thing you need in the relationship is drama!
#1 I’m easy about my budget
This might seem like a no-brainer but in the excitement of the moment, it is a phrase that can just slip out.
Yes, you want your new home to look amazing but make sure you don’t break the bank even before the project starts!
It is always a good idea at your first meeting to spell out clearly what your architect’s budget is and what your overall budget is. This allows the architect to come up with feasible plans. That is a much better scenario than a total redraw because the first design is so far over your budget. And that is where the drama can begin.
#2 I have very specific plans for the house
You may have looked at work P & T Complete Renovation’s website, magazines or houses in your locality for inspiration. They are all great but having very specific plans for your home renovation for your briefing for the architect can be only that. Don’t tell your architect what to do. They are professionals who have spent a long time learning their profession.
Certainly, you need to include all the want-to-haves in your newly renovated home but you have to let them use their skillset and best judgment to come up with a design that will stick to your budget and still look amazing.
#3 Have you designed houses like the one I want
Don’t assume that your architect hasn’t designed a home like yours before. However, it is important to pick an architect that has designed homes and renovations like your desired completed project.
For example, if you want a contemporary look and feel to your project there is no point in picking an architect whose projects have largely been futuristic looking.
That is where research comes into the picture. You will be able to see from the architect’s website or web pages what type of designs they work on predominantly
#4 I haven’t thought about future-proofing the house
It’s great that you have decided on a budget and you have an idea of what you want your completed renovation to look like.
Have you given serious thought to what it will be like to live in your newly renovated home?
More importantly, have you thought about what it will be like to live in your renovated home in 10 or 20 years?
That beautiful spiral staircase may be a beautiful feature now but by the time you reach retirement age, it may not be such a good idea.
It is important to future-proof your design ideas as well. You may not have children now but your design needs to consider them.
It’s an area certainly to consider.
#5 I’m not sure but you know best
This may seem like it’s contradicting #2 but you have to take some control. Remember that unless you have a whirlwind romance with your architect, the chances that they will be living in the design are very slim!
While the architect should be given leeway to design an amazing space, the architect must still understand that this is your home.
If you don’t like something your architect has designed, you have to say it and be prepared to stand your ground and your architect should be prepared to listen.
The result will be worth it.
#6 I thought you were a qualified architect
In the age of the website, it is easy to put the word architect into a dot ie or dot com name. It is possible to do that now and not have a registered architect in the company.
Just like we said in #3 it is important to research. A good starting point would be here.
You need to make sure they are fully qualified and registered for insurance purposes so just keep in mind that you are looking for an architect and not an architectural designer.
#7 That’s a stupid planning rule, ignore it
This can sometimes be an attitude in Ireland. The ‘ah sure we’ll be grand’ attitude. When it comes to planning permission there is no grey area. It’s black or white.
The last thing you want to do is create this amazing space to live in and find out that you didn’t have permission to do it. That could end up being costly in time and money. Architects in Ireland know the planning laws and take their advice on it. You do not want to go having to rip down part of your house.
