Frequently asked questions
Do you do drawings?
I am often asked if ‘I do drawings’? The answer is, of course, YES. Drawings are the way in which Architects and other suitably qualified construction professionals communicate their design ideas and how that design idea should be
built. Read More
Why use an Architect?
I always recommend you don’t select who’s doing your drawings based solely on price. When you buy a new car, mobile phone, a TV or even a holiday, there will be cheaper ones on the market than the one you select. Its likely you’ll make that purchase based on quality, specification and value for money. There will certainly be a bit of emotion in that decision too! It’s very important to have a good relationship and understanding between you and your Architect. Read More
Why use am | architect?
Every day I am passionate about improving people’s lives. I regularly use social media with the hashtags #improvinghomes #improvingliving #improvinglives and with my business being called am | architect I like to think I #awakenyourdreams. Read More
What do you charge and what services do you offer?
Architects charge in one of three different ways: a percentage basis; lump sum basis; or time charge basis. Expenses are generally charged separately. The RIAS have a good guide on Budget and Fees here.
For all methods of fee payment, its dependent on the service being provided and your Architects involvement at the various stages of a project. Again the RIAS have a good guide here.
Architectural projects have 6 key stages with various tasks at each stage which are based on the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Plan of Work 2013 document. Read More
am | architect Service
Mindful that you may wish a more hands on approach and / or wish to minimise pre build costs, I offer 3 levels of service which will allow you to tailor my service to suit your budget and requirements. I refer to these as Gold, Silver & Bronze service. Read More
Do I need any other services?
The answer to this is simple, in the majority of cases, yes!
Depending on the works you are doing, it is likely that you will need the services of a Structural Engineer. They will provide the structural design which is out with the scope and expertise of the services offered by an Architect. Some designers may offer this service as an extra based on the Scottish Governments Small Buildings Guide, Read More
What other pre construction costs might I face?
There are additional costs depending on what statutory approvals are required and the nature of the site.
Focussing on domestic projects, planning approval may be required but there is a chance that your project may be done under Permitted Development Legislation and not require approval. I can advise on this. Read More
How much will it cost to build?
This is always difficult for an Architect to predict as we are not trained in project construction costing. We do get a feel for an approximate cost per m2 however based on project experience and advice from Quantity Surveyors and local building control departments. Read More
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