Architects | Local Services | Classifieds.co.uk :

If you are planning any sort of building project, one of the most important things you will need to do is to hire an architect. It doesn't matter whether your building project is a small extension to your house, a loft conversion, a major renovation project or even building your 'grand design' from scratch, you will almost invariably benefit from employing an architect at the outset of the project.

What do architects do?
Most people assume that architects design buildings and draw up plans. Whilst these are certainly core competencies, architects actually perform a wider range of tasks. For example, they can help to identify suitable building sites, undertake feasibility studies, investigate statutory regulations and make sure that planning laws are adhered to. Architects can help with drawing up a time table or project plan, as well as assisting with planning permission and building regulations. They can liaise with building contractors and visit the site on a regular basis to make sure that the project is proceeding as planned. Some architects may also have skills in specialised areas such as planning law, lighting, acoustics or assessing building failures.

How to find an architect
Start your search by using a classified adverts website. This will help you to find a list of all of the architects in your area as well as information about them and their contact details. You can also ask friends and family to recommend an architect that they have used, but make sure that the building work the architect did for them is similar to the work required for your project. Naturally, if you come across a building that you particularly like then you can try to find out the name of the architects who designed it and contact them.

Choose the right architect for your project
There is no point employing an architect that specialises in designing one-off, modern houses if your building project involves the renovation of a listed Victorian villa. Always check what type of building projects each architect specialises in.

Qualifications
All UK architects will be expected to have completed a five-year degree programme that is recognised by The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB). These five years generally comprise a three year degree (RIBA Part 1) followed by a further two years of undergraduate study (RIBA Part 2). They must also complete a minimum of another two years working in an architect's office to gain professional experience. Then they take the RIBA Part 3 exam in Professional Practice and Management. Only after Part 3 can someone register with the ARB and officially call themselves an architect. It is important to note that not all UK architecture qualifications are prescribed by the ARB as suitable for admission to the UK Register of Architects. Therefore, for you own peace of mind and to make sure that you receive the highest quality of service, you should check their qualifications and that they are registered with ARB.

Other important considerations
When you find a handful of architects that would, on paper, be suitable for your project it is important that you actually go and talk to them. Although a particular architect may specialise mainly in the area of work that you require, it is possible that your particular project may be too big or too small for them to take on. It is also important that you feel comfortable with your architect and that you feel that you can trust them to safely translate your ideas into reality. You will need to talk through your project in detail and make sure that both you and the architect are in agreement. Don't make any assumptions: talk through everything in great detail to make sure that your dream project does indeed turn into reality. There are endless stories of disappointment or unwelcome surprises due to poor communication and understanding between architect and client. Although you may have very strong ideas with regard to the project, it is essential that you listen to and consider any suggestions made by the architect -- they are the experts and will almost invariably have much more experience in building than you. Do ask to see the architect's portfolios and take the time to go and have a look at some projects for which they have been responsible.

Cost
Although it is always tempting to save yourself money, be very careful about choosing an architect on the basis of the cheapest quote. You should aim to get at least three quotes and then choose your architect based on their skills, experience and recommendations as well as price. Some architects may charge you a percentage of the total cost of the building project while others may charge a fixed fee or fees based on the time they have spent working on your project. Assuming that your architect is suitably qualified, the final choice is very much down to a combination of your personal preferences, the nature of your project, the relevance of the architect's portfolio, their availability and costs.