Valton Brown, Director of Eclipse Design Ltd, gives you the low-down on architects...

Do architects prepare plans?

Yes, Architects are trained to produce conceptual and working drawings for building schemes.

Do they design any type of building?

The type of buildings that a specific Architect/architectural practice designs,
is really down to the experience that he or she has received over the years. Due to the nature of the building industry some Architects choose to specialize in healthcare, commercial buildings. Other Architects design for the residential market.

Do they design extensions as well as new buildings?

Yes, Architects design extensions as well as new buildings. The type of materials and the method of construction may vary but the basic principles are transferable from one type of building project to another.

Do they organise planning permission?

Yes, Architects organize Planning Permission as part of their appointment by
the client. This is a vital part of any project and so forms part of their training or experience.

What can I do if my application is refused?

If your Planning Application has been refused after the first submission, you are permitted to re-submit a revised scheme to the Local Authority within 12 months. It is advisable to discuss the revised scheme with the Planning Officer prior to sending in your application again. Issues that are due to the design can then be modified to suit the Planners comments or a mutually acceptable agreement may be achieved. The ultimate course of action is to submit a Planning Appeal. This can be a drawn out process and in my opinion should be a last resort.

Why should I employ an Architect?

The idea of employing an Architect or designer is often interpreted as a waste of precious funds which could otherwise be spent on the building project. The role of an Architect/designer is vital to a successful project as they bring interpret your requirements and communicate this through carefully considered drawings, specification etc. Without the inclusion of these skills the finish product may not be what you had expected and may also cost you a substantial amount more. Their input can be the difference between a well designed, co-ordinated project which exceeds your expectations and a poorly designed, disorganized project which exceeds your budget.

What is a chartered architect?

A Chartered Architect is someone who is registered with the RIBA/Registration Board.

How much should an Architect charge?

The cost of employing an Architect is variable. This is due to the fact that their costs are determined by a number of factors:-

• The size and complexity of the project.

• The type of project i.e property extension, barn conversion, new build

• The level of service required i.e planning submission only or planning through to project management