Whether you are building an extension for your home or you are planning to build a whole new house from scratch, you will need to find an architect to work with you to bring your plans to life. Finding residential architects like this www.quattrodesign.co.uk to work with is important, and when you approach an architect, you need to give them a good brief.
In order for an architect to work with you to create what you want, you need to make sure that your brief is as thorough as possible, and that it contains all of the information that the architect needs.
To help you to prepare your brief, here are some of the things that you need to think about and put into your brief…
What are your aims?
Basically, what you intend to build, the size of the structure and the location of it.
What is your budget?
Make sure that you are clear on your budget so that the architect knows what they are working with and can work with you to ensure that you are not going to go over budget.
What style do you like and what style building is it going to be attached to if it is an extension?
Look at various styles of architecture to get an idea of what you do and don’t like and also if you are building an extension make sure that you have a building that fits in with the one you are attaching it to.
What do you expect to get from this?
Specify what your goal is, for example to gain more space in your home, to make better use of the space that you have etc.
Briefing an architect on a barn conversion
Barn conversions are a popular way to live in the countryside and design a home to your own taste, but they need a particularly clear brief. The appeal of a converted barn lies in its original character, so make it clear to your architect that the work should respect the building, with features such as oak roof trusses and natural materials kept where possible.
Modern design can still have a place, but it needs to be handled carefully so it complements the barn rather than overwhelming it. It also helps to understand the type of barn you have, as different styles across the country suggest different approaches.
Planning permission is needed for a conversion, so read the local planning guidelines thoroughly before finalising the brief. Plans that follow them stand a better chance of approval. Include a realistic budget that covers building costs, architect fees and fixtures and fittings. If you have the skills to do some of the work yourself, say so, as it can bring costs down.
