URGENT! Local architect recommendations needed Post Reply

[bluebell79]

Hi,

We are buying a house in SW12 which requires some renovation work - removing load bearing walls, moving internal walls, new kitchen, new bathrooms, loft conversion, etc. My dad is an architect (in Norway) so we have the layout solution, but need a local architect to draw up plans for the builders as well as submit planning applications to the council. Could anyone recommend a good local architect whom might be able to help with this at a reasonable cost. As mentioned, we already have the layout so will mainly need drawings, help with estimated building costs and obtaining the relevant consents.

Any help and recommendations would be much appreciated.

Many thanks!

[Moop]

Can't recommend Carter Designs https://www.carter-designs.com highly enough. Met with around 5 firms/individuals and he stood out by far and delivered beyond expectation.

Unfortunately we met him only after appointing another that we ended up cutting loose due to various let downs.

[bluebell79]

Can't recommend Carter Designs https://www.carter-designs.com highly enough. Met with around 5 firms/individuals and he stood out by far and delivered beyond expectation.

Unfortunately we met him only after appointing another that we ended up cutting loose due to various let downs.

Thank you so much Moop - will definitely look into them! We have also looked at http://www.wr-architects.co.uk and http://architectshc.co.uk - are you familiar with any of them? Budget is tight so need someone realistic.

[Moop]

I don't know them I'm afraid. Their work looks interesting though.

carter designs were reasonable - especially compared to our previous let down! Because of that we had limited budget too.

It's worth reviewing the terms and conditions of payment with whomever you choose to go with so you don't get caught up in paying for things that haven't been delivered.

[IrenaP]

You have to be careful. Carter Designs are not architects, they are technicians. The reason I know this is that I looked them
up on the Architects Registration Board website (and there is also a reference in their website). Perhaps you don't need an architect if your dad did a really well thought out plan but given the extent of works you are considering I would get an architect involved because there will be significant coordination required. I haven't heard of those architects you mentioned but I would recommend looking at the RIBA website which can help you filter architects to suit your project. Then get three quotes and take up references.
Alternatively you could try architectyourhome which I understand do a service at a hourly rate if you think your drawings are really well detailed.