When is the best time to get architectural plans?
When is the best time to get architectural plans?
Whether you are purchasing land to build a home or commercial structure from scratch, require renovation work, or are planning a modest extension to your current abode, getting architectural plans is the first step in the building process and one that will make the difference between a successful project and a stressful one.
Getting a qualified and experienced architect to walk you through the design stages, clarify the regulatory hurdles, all of which have become more onerous over the past few years, and advise on design, construction and interior design issues, turns what can be a complex process into an enjoyable one, empowering you to be reassured in your design decisions.
The short answer: The best time to get architectural plans is as soon as you’re seriously considering a building project.
A skilled architect is likely to come up with ideas that you hadn’t otherwise considered or thought possible. Making the best use of all available space is second nature to them. Therefore, what they come up with might well exceed your every expectation.
Our Teddington Architects have created a detailed guide to understanding how architectural plans outline exactly what to think about when plotting a building project, as well as why getting architectural plans the earlier, the better.
Top 10 things to consider when getting architectural plans
Before you start contacting and commissioning an architect, let’s take a look at what lies ahead once you have decided to proceed with your project. Consider the following when planning any extension or new build.
Planning permission
Planning permission is required for most projects before your contractor can lay a single brick. You can’t expect to get the go-ahead from your local authority if you don’t have detailed plans drawn up.
Which begs the question – how long does it take to secure planning permission? According to gov.uk, a local planning authority within England and Wales will take up to eight weeks to reach a decision. If your project is especially large or complex, then you may have to wait up to 13 weeks.
The local picture
It’s worth finding out whether your local planning authority tends to work to any specific timeframes. As well as if they’re usually busier during certain months.
With this in mind, who better to ask than your architect? As this is the business they’re in, they’re better placed than anyone to tell you how long you’re likely to wait before planning permission is granted.
Building regulations
In addition to planning permission, most building projects also require building regulations approval. While it’s something you can avoid having to do by using a competent person scheme contractor, this is a factor you must bear in mind.
Project size and complexity
It stands to reason that a bigger or more complicated project will take longer to complete. It’s also worth keeping in mind that your architect will need longer to work on these plans.
A longer wait for contractors is also likelier when it comes to bigger, more time-consuming projects.
Getting a good builder
Good tradespersons can be booked up many months in advance. If you have plans and are ready to go, then you have a better chance of being able to get your builder to start work as soon as your local planning department gives the green light.
As a general rule of thumb, expect a waiting list of several months. If your project is larger or more complicated than average, you could be waiting six months plus for work to commence.
Cost considerations
Getting detailed architectural plans at as early a stage as possible can help you to budget effectively for your build. This is because having proper plans means your contractor can give more exact cost estimates and you can get comparative quotations rather than each builder pricing for different ways to build.
Architect availability
Commissioning your plans as soon as possible also means you have less chance of having to wait for the best architect in town.
The time of year
Many people prefer to have building work done during the drier, warmer months. Which means good contractors are even more likely to be booked up for Summer. If you want your builder to be breaking dry ground rather than contending with mud, then it’s even more important to get those plans drawn up as early as you possibly can.
Expert guidance
You cannot fully finalise the design of your project until an architect has worked their magic on your proposals. If you’d like expert input on making the best possible use of your space, then it makes complete sense not to wait before putting them to work on your plans.
Engaging an architect early on also gives you more time to foster a good working relationship. This may be especially helpful if your plans require adjustment as the construction work progresses.
Why you really need an architect
A good architect will complete the required technical drawings, which can include plans for the floor, roof, elevations, and entire site. Their role can also involve ensuring the best use of available space, as well as clearly defining what the project will involve.
Architectural Design by Architecture:WK
At Architecture:WK, our experienced architects can seamlessly guide you through the process of designing an extension, renovation, or building.
Whether you know what you want to achieve but aren’t sure how to get there, or are in desperate need of some expert input, you can trust our team to design spaces that are as practical and hard-working as they are beautiful.
We love what we do and pride ourselves on being approachable, creative, and professional at every stage of the process. Collaborative working also ensures you get exactly what you want, and that we get the design exactly right. It’s just how we work, and have done for over two decades.
If you want to get your project off the ground but aren’t quite ready to commit to the complete process, then our unique Design in a Day service could be ideal. Including an initial phone consultation, design session, and proposal package, it’s the best way to see for yourself how we can make your ideas take shape.
Whether you want to find out more or are ready to get started, why not get in touch today?