Which professional do I need to design my extension in Blackheath, London?
Blackheath, straddling the London boroughs of Greenwich and Lewisham, is often described as a village within a city.
With a great selection of amenities and the 275-acre heath at its heart, it’s an attractive place to settle down.
That’s why many property owners in Blackheath are choosing to extend rather than move.
If you’re one of them, you may be wondering, “Which professional do I need to design my extension in Blackheath, London?”.
This article will answer this question for you and help you get started on your plans.
Who do I need to design my extension?
If you’re planning a small project, you could ask your contractor to both design and build your extension.
This can work well if your project is simple — for example, if you are converting an existing space like a garage or creating a small reception room.
If you have the skills, you may also consider designing your extension yourself with a software package.
But be aware that your design will need to take various regulations into account. These include planning permission requirements and building regulations.
If your design doesn’t meet these or you miss any details, you could face extra costs at a later stage.
For this reason, many homeowners turn to the professionals when it comes to extension design and build.
Should I use an architect?
An architect can be an excellent choice if neither you nor your builder has the skills to confidently design your extension.
Architects can help with many aspects of your extension design and build.
At the outset of your project, they will look at the space you have available and work out how to make the most of it.
An architect can work with your vision and offer a selection of options to help you achieve it.
This means that you get an extension that’s designed to hit your lifestyle goals while making the best of your resources.
Your architect will bring a wealth of experience to your project. Their knowledge includes an understanding of building methods and materials.
They will also understand the processes you need to go through, including getting planning permission. This involves a certain amount of paperwork, so it's good to know that your architect can manage this for you.
It's especially helpful to get an architect on board if you live in the Blackheath conservation area. They will understand any restrictions around your design and ensure that it complies with conditions.
Your architect will know who to contact if you need other professionals — for example, chartered building surveyors. They may also be able to recommend builders or other tradespeople they have worked with before.
Many architects can manage building projects, coordinating contractors and helping them run to schedule. This can be an invaluable service if you don’t have time to do this work yourself.
Finally, remember that architects work to a code of practice and have professional indemnity insurance. This offers peace of mind, knowing that your project is in safe hands.
Find an extension architect close to you
An architect is the professional you need to plan a well-designed extension. Their input can help your project achieve your goals and ensure it complies with regulations.
That’s why it’s well worth considering hiring one for your extension project in Blackheath, London.
This is where the team at Humphreys & Sons can help. We’re a family business of architects and chartered building surveyors, focusing on building projects in London and Essex.
Get in touch to know more about how we could help with your extension project — let’s work together to get the best out of your property.