The Role of an Architect — A Homeowner’s Guide

Most homeowners think of architects as if they are merely drawing sketches for them, which is far from the actual reality. Knowing what an architect does will enable you to better utilise their skills and make the most of your project.

Design and Vision

What they do — Architects turn your inspirations into real and beautiful spaces. They think about your lifestyle, sense of style and practical wants, balancing those needs when they design. They are solvers for the types of problems that you didn’t even know were a thing.

Technical Expertise

Architects deal with the building regulations, structural considerations and material aspects, among others, while visual perception is only a part of architecture. They need to check what you want and figure out how legally and structurally, what is possible. This technical knowhow prevents expensive and costly errors during construction. For a Monmouth Architect, visit www.hillsandcompany.co.uk/

Planning Permission Navigation

Whether you hire a structural engineer or use an architect, they will draw up plans and submit planning applications on your behalf directly with the local authorities. They know what planners like to see and can deal with any objections well in advance, greatly increasing the chance of being approved.

Project Coordination

Structural engineers, surveyors and contractors are often consulted by the architect. This ensures everyone is working from that same vision and same set of specs preventing miscommunication which could result in projects running late or going over budget.

Budget Management

Every home is built with a price tag in mind — yet the best architects choose certain materials and methods solely based on what’s most effective. They have, in fact, highly detailed drawings that permit exact quotations from the builders out there and reduce any unexpected costs.

Problem-Solving

As unexpected hurdles occur — from difficult site conditions, to unanticipated structural surprises or design conflicts – architects are uniquely qualified and positioned to develop clever resolutions that keep the project moving forward.