Adding an extension to your home can be a great way to increase living space and increase the property value. Whether it’s a loft conversion, or extending the property to the side, front or rear, the additional space created can be hugely beneficial in creating additional bedrooms, living areas and storage. An extension may also be an alternative to moving, saving money, time and stress. Done correctly, it can also be visually appealing.

How can an architect help with an extension?

An extension is often an expensive addition to any home and so it’s important to get this right. This is why an architect can be highly valuable as they can help steer the project in the right direction, managing all aspects of this and ensuring it fulfils your personality and vision.

Architects can help with listed building consent, planning permission, building regulations, managing budgets, hiring tradespeople and producing detailed plans based on your vision.

What aspects of an extension project can an architect help manage?

Budget: An architect can help you set a realistic budget for your extension and help manage your costs through-out the project to ensure it comes within budget. They may also be able to help you reduce costs by advising on alternative materials and design ideas.

Listed Building Consent and Planning: For those that live in conversation areas or listed properties, listed building consent from the local authority will need to be granted. There will be rules surrounding what materials can be used and how the extension impacts on the local area. Planning permission may also need to be granted for extensions over a certain size or if part of a listed building/in a conservation area. An architect can help navigate the often-complex planning policies and help get listed building consent. They can submit planning applications for clients and deal with any questions that may arise, along with advising on appropriate materials to use.

Building Regulations: An extension will need to meet any building regulations, which are a set of standards for design, construction and alternations to buildings to ensure safety and energy efficiency. Building regulations cover things like foundations, structure, fire safety, sound insulation and environmental concerns. An architect can help ensure the extension meets all building requirements, ensuring your new extension is fully compliant.

Professional Guidance: An architect can help the extension reach it’s maximum potential by maximising space and natural light, along with advising on the best materials to use. They can produce designs and technical drawings to help clients visualise the space.

Hiring Tradespeople: An architect might be able to advise on the best tradespeople to use for building the extension. They are likely to have worked with a number of tradespeople and so will have a list of reputable contractors who specialise in different types of projects. They may also be able to help negotiate better prices for contractors.