How could an architecture firm in Angel, London help me extend my house on a budget?
Angel is one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in North London. Part of the borough of Islington, it’s packed with shops, bars and restaurants and enjoys great transport links too.
If you’re an Angel homeowner, then you may be thinking about future-proofing your property by extending it.
While living in London can be a challenge for the pocket, there are ways you can extend your house on a budget.
We explain how an architecture firm in Angel, London, can help you achieve your dream.
About extending on a budget
Whether you’re increasing your space to the back, side or front of your property or going upwards with a two-storey extension or loft conversion, there are things you can do to make the most of your resources and avoid extra expense.
A simple design is always a good place to start. Your plan should also save space wherever possible, for example by converting a loft instead of creating a costly two-storey extension.
Make sure you understand the processes for gaining planning permission and complying with building regulations and the Party Wall Act — making a mistake on these could prove to be costly.
And appoint local, trusted firms to carry out your work. Follow up references, and don’t part with your cash before the project begins — either arrange to pay contractors in stages as your project unfolds or once work is completed and you’re satisfied with its quality.
How can an architecture firm in Angel, London help me?
Working with a local architecture firm can help you maximise your budget and avoid costly mistakes.
Appointing a company familiar with your locality and with experience working on similar properties will be a real bonus. They can advise you on the best way to utilise the space you already have and keep costs down when it comes to extending it.
For example, an architect will assess your existing property and advise the most affordable way to achieve the space you are looking for. So, instead of embarking on an expensive two-storey extension to increase the footprint of your home, they may explore how you could build on the space you already have. This could involve converting a loft or garage or adding a small side extension to your house.
They will also be able to draw up detailed plans for your extension for your builder to use.
An architect’s firm will not only advise you on the most streamlined and affordable plan for your extension but will also help guide you through the tasks you need to complete to make your project a reality.
It’s important to do this properly since making mistakes could involve fines or having to halt your project. Your architect — or a member of their team — will be able to advise you on which type of planning permission you need and how building regulations may affect your project.
They will also be able to help you understand the Party Wall Act, which requires you to liaise with any neighbours you share a wall with if your project is likely to affect it. Your architect can also help with drawing up a party wall agreement to avoid future dispute.
And if you appoint an architect’s firm local to you, they will be able to help you when it comes to choosing tried-and-tested contractors to work on your project. The difference between trusted and unreliable builders can be huge when it comes to costs.
Looking for an architecture firm in Angel, London?
Extending your home is often the most economical way of increasing your space, saving on the cost and hassle of moving.
It can be even more cost-effective when you use the services of an experienced architect’s firm local to you.
If you’re looking for an architecture firm in Angel, London, reach out to the team here at Humphreys & Sons. We are a local family business of architects, chartered and party wall surveyors with the expertise to guide you through your project, whatever your budget.
With experience in many residential building projects in and around London and Essex, you can rest assured that we’re here to help you get the most out of your budget and your newly extended home.
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