Why Asking “How Much Do You Charge for Plans?” Misses the Bigger Picture
We regularly get asked “How much do you charge for Plans?”.
It’s not an unreasonable request and the assumption that most people make, when asked what an Architect does, would be that an architect draws plans. This isn’t an incorrect assumption, however the drawings are the end product of a whole process which just happens to culminate with the Architect producing drawings.
Architects vs GP’s: A Surprising Comparison
Let me explain using another profession as an example.
Everyone has a GP and would at some time or another been to visit their GP. You probably wouldn’t go into your GP consultation room and just ask them to write you a prescription. You would sit down, and the GP would ask you “what seems to be the problem”. You would then describe your problem, have a chat about your symptoms and probably chat about anything that might be causing the problem, be it lifestyle, diet, injury, something contagious doing the rounds….the list is endless.
The GP will look at the whole picture; your past medical history, suggest some solutions, chat about any current medical research which may be relevant, discuss any possible referrals or treatment plans. There will be a whole host of things that the GP will do before finally writing you your prescription.
Identifying Your Design Problem: The Architect’s First Step
Using an Architect is a similar process. We will visit your property and there will be a problem which will require solving. Your problem may be that you need another bedroom, you want to create an open plan area, you have a change in family circumstances so need to adapt your house, you are working from home so need office space….again, the list is endless!
Lifestyle and Space: Key Factors Architects Consider
With the problem in mind, we will look at the whole picture; chat about who lives in the house, your lifestyle, any hobbies, how you use the areas and spaces currently. We’ll have a chat about your visual likes and dislikes, maybe we’ll share a Pinterest board.
Planning Permissions and Building Regulations: An Architect’s Expertise
We will also explain any potential Planning implications or restrictions, chat about Building Regulations and about how the whole building process works from start to finish. We will have knowledge we can share about project building costs and the best local builders to contact, as well as local suppliers for kitchens, bathrooms, tiles, windows etc.
The Value of an Architect: It’s About More Than Plans
The whole process will eventually culminate with the production of ‘Plans’. However, it is the entire process, our problem solving creativity, our local knowledge and expertise which you are using an Architect for, not just for drawing plans.
Have a look at some of our projects here…
Rear Extension Transformation in West Kirby
Transforming a Historic Golf Club House into a Modern Family Home
