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Types of Architects Services

Understanding the different types of services available helps you find the right professional for your specific needs.

Residential Design & Extensions

Creative and practical design solutions for home extensions, loft conversions, and internal remodelling to maximise your living space.

New Build Design

Comprehensive architectural design for new residential and commercial buildings, from initial concept sketches through to detailed construction drawings.

Planning Applications

Preparation and submission of planning applications to the local authority, including design and access statements and supporting documentation.

Building Regulations Drawings

Production of detailed technical drawings that comply with current Building Regulations for submission to building control.

Project Management

Overseeing the construction phase to ensure the build adheres to the approved plans, specification, budget, and programme.

Interior Design

Thoughtful interior design services including spatial planning, material and finish selections, and bespoke joinery design.

Most Common Architects Jobs

These are the most frequently requested jobs in architects. Knowing what to expect helps you communicate clearly with professionals.

Rear Extension Design

Designing single or double-storey rear extensions to create open-plan living spaces, typically integrating kitchen and dining areas.

Loft Conversion Plans

Producing drawings for loft conversions, including dormer or hip-to-gable designs, with consideration for staircase positioning and fire safety.

Change of Use Applications

Preparing planning applications for converting buildings from one use class to another, such as commercial to residential.

Conservation Area Projects

Designing sympathetic alterations to properties in conservation areas or to listed buildings, working within heritage constraints.

Garage Conversions

Creating designs to convert integral or detached garages into habitable rooms, ensuring compliance with thermal and ventilation requirements.

Self-Build Home Design

Working with self-builders to design their dream home from scratch, managing the entire design process from brief to construction.

Kitchen and Bathroom Layouts

Optimising kitchen and bathroom layouts as part of wider refurbishment projects, balancing aesthetics with practical functionality.

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How to Find the Best Architects

Choosing the right professional is important. Here’s what to look for when hiring architects services.

Verify Registration

Ensure your architect is registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB), which is a legal requirement to use the title "architect" in the UK.

Review Their Portfolio

Look at previous projects similar in scale and style to yours. A strong portfolio demonstrates the architect's design capability and versatility.

Discuss Fees Early

Architects may charge a percentage of the build cost, a fixed fee, or an hourly rate. Clarify the fee structure and what services are included from the outset.

Check Local Knowledge

An architect familiar with your local planning authority and its policies can be a significant advantage when submitting planning applications.

Assess Communication

Choose an architect who listens carefully to your requirements, communicates ideas clearly, and is responsive to feedback throughout the design process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Architects

Get answers to the most commonly asked questions about hiring architects professionals.

Architect fees vary depending on the project scope and the level of service required. For domestic projects, fees typically range from 7% to 15% of the total construction cost for a full service from concept to completion. Some architects offer partial services, such as planning drawings only, at a lower cost or fixed fee. For a straightforward house extension, you might pay between £2,000 and £6,000 for planning and building regulations drawings. Always agree fees in writing before work commences.

Whilst there is no legal requirement to use an architect for a house extension, their expertise can prove invaluable. An architect will create a design that makes the best use of available space, complements the existing property, and meets planning and building regulations requirements. They can also help you avoid common pitfalls that lead to costly delays or rework. For straightforward projects, an architectural technologist or designer may offer a more cost-effective alternative, though they cannot use the protected title of architect.

An architect has completed a minimum of seven years' training and is registered with the Architects Registration Board, entitling them to use the legally protected title. They typically focus on the creative design aspects as well as technical delivery. An architectural technologist, often a member of CIAT, specialises in the technical and practical aspects of building design and construction. Both can produce planning and building regulations drawings, but architects may bring a stronger design-led approach to more complex or bespoke projects.

A standard householder planning application typically takes eight weeks for the local authority to determine, although this can extend to thirteen weeks for larger or more complex schemes. Prior to submission, the design process itself may take several weeks depending on the project complexity and the number of design revisions. Pre-application advice from the planning authority, whilst not mandatory, can add time but often results in a smoother application process. Your architect can provide a realistic programme based on your specific project.

Yes, architects with experience in heritage and conservation projects are particularly well-suited to handle listed building consent applications. These applications require a detailed heritage impact assessment and a sympathetic design approach that preserves the character and special interest of the building. The process is often more complex and time-consuming than a standard planning application, making professional expertise especially valuable. An experienced architect will understand the specific requirements of your local conservation officer.

The Royal Institute of British Architects is a professional body that sets standards for the architecture profession. RIBA chartered practices follow a code of professional conduct and adhere to quality management procedures. Choosing a RIBA chartered architect provides additional assurance regarding professional standards, complaints procedures, and access to client advisory services. Whilst RIBA membership is not mandatory to practise as an architect in the UK, it is widely regarded as a mark of quality and professionalism.

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