What’s the best way to find an architect near me?
Hiring an architect is a great way to bring your building, extension or renovation project to life.
And choosing an architect who is local to you can make a difference. If you’ve wondered, ‘How do I find architect firms near me?’ or ‘Who are the local architects near me?’, continue reading this post. In it, we’ll explain what architects do, the benefits they can bring to your project and how to find one.
What does an architect do?
Architects have a range of diverse skills. Their main focus is to design new buildings and redesign existing ones. As part of their remit, they provide plans and drawings for builders to work from.
Architects can also advise on subjects like planning permission, building regulations and the Party Wall Act. They can help you with applications and admin related to these areas too.
They can also project manage your build, extension, loft conversion, new bulild, or renovation, streamlining the entire process.
To summarise, their combined expertise and creativity can help make your project a success.
Benefits of using an architect
It’s clear that an architect can provide specialist skills to help your project. Let’s consider some of the other benefits they can bring. They can:
Maximise a small or awkward space to produce a design that works for your lifestyle.
Help you make choices that fit your budget, saving you money in the long run.
Recommend tried-and-tested local contractors.
Ensure your project runs to time and on budget.
Liaise with the necessary authorities when it comes to seeking regulatory approval for your project.
Tips for finding an architect near me
A local architect who knows your area well is a real asset. Here’s how to find an architect local to you:
Ask any neighbours who have had building work done for a recommendation.
Find out what kind of projects local architects work on. Some specialise in commercial properties, while others focus on residential projects.
Period properties present unique challenges, so make sure you find a local architect with relevant experience.
The same goes for conservation areas — your chosen architect should understand the restrictions involved.
Take a look at local architects’ websites and social media accounts to get a feel for their work.
If you have a local builder in mind to undertake your project, ask them if they have worked with a recommended architect before.
Set up a meeting with your shortlisted architects early on in the project so you can discuss expectations, budget and ideas.
Ask them if they have links with or experience of your local authority.
Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you can think of to get an idea of their experience and local knowledge.
Looking for an architect near me?
A local architect can bring specialised skills to your building project and make specific recommendations based on this knowledge. This means that your project is more likely to end up fitting seamlessly into your neighbourhood while fulfilling your original aims.
As experienced architects and chartered building surveyors working across London and Essex, Humphreys & Sons are your ideal choice. We’ve got a great track record in many types of building projects and are happy to help.
Book a free, no-commitment meeting with us today.
