Knowing how to choose an architect is essential. A good architect will ensure that your project goes smoothly, stays within budget, and matches your dreams and expectations. You need an architect to handle the parts of the project that most people don’t even consider. Whether it’s negotiating complicated planning and application procedures and regulations, you need someone who knows the ins and outs.
Management is crucial. Even a small extension can create serious issues if done improperly. Think of the disruption that can be caused by having a painter in or having a roof repaired and multiply it a hundredfold. A new build or renovation can be one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make. Your home should add to your quality of life. An architect can help you achieve this, but you must ensure you have someone you like, trust, and can comfortably discuss the project with.
How to Choose an Architect: Ask for Referrals
In Ireland, we still primarily seek recommendations through word of mouth. Ask your friends and family who they used for their build, but be sure to consider your own project. Be sure that you’re comparing apples to apples. Someone may have had an excellent architect for their home extension, but is it the same type of project as your restoration or renovation? Get a good close-up look at the work that was done so you can judge for yourself if it matches your tastes and expectations. Some of our clients share their experiences.
View the architect’s portfolio
Check for the quality of the finished work. Again compare apples to apples. If the portfolio shows extravagant, complex designs but you’re looking for a straightforward design for your 3-bedroom semi-detached, ask for examples that are more in line with what you want. We offer full transparency. We keep our architectural portfolio publically visible for everyone to see.
Make sure they are communicative
Hire an architect who listens and is willing and able to interpret your ideas into the designs you want. At the end of it all, it’ll be you who will be living in the house. So you need to make sure that they’re helping you realise your ideal home and preferences, not theirs. Make sure you can agree on a design together and then be sure you both stick to it.
“Their workmanship was incredible. When it came to the snag list nothing was too big, nothing was too small. Every single detail, they took as seriously as if it was their own house, they were just an incredible bunch to work with”.
— Irene Galvin, Client
Knowing how to choose an architect is the difference between having a beautiful home that suits your needs and is in keeping with its surroundings, and having a never-ending nightmare of disruption and disagreement. Your architect’s job isn’t just to come up with nice uses of the space; they should help you through the planning process, ensure you conform to building, health and safety requirements, and essentially, manage the building contractors to ensure a smooth and efficient process through and through.
At Sigma Homes, we spent years analysing the many pitfalls of the building industry. With a client-first approach, our organisation aims to take away the delays, stress and trouble out of a home renovation or extension. If you’d like to find out more about how we work, experience first-hand how we approach a build, feel free to arrange an obligation-free consultation today on 021 2348 095.