What can an architect do for you?

Architects design buildings, but there’s more to it than that. For most of us, the biggest investment we ever make is in our own home.

Whether you want to build a new house – or extend or alter one – you need to be confident you’re getting the best result for your investment.

So, how does your architect help? It takes at least seven years for an architect to become fully qualified. During that time they will have studied the principles of good design and what makes a successful building. They will also have developed the technical and practical building knowledge and skills to deliver projects.

Architecture combines artistic creativity with technical skills and knowledge of construction. Successful building designs deliver on both practical and emotional levels.

Good clients make good buildings. You will have a lot of ideas about what you want to achieve and your architect will use their skills, creativity and experience to help turn these aspirations into a built reality.

Architects care about designing and building better buildings. They are good at solving problems and finding creative solutions. They have the skills and imagination to create a design that could well exceed your expectations.

After this, your architect will also have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process of building your project.

This doesn’t just involve dealing with contractors; there is a whole variety of processes and procedures that need to be dealt with. The list can seem daunting and might include applying for planning permission, building warrants, wayleaves, historic building consent and completion certificates.

All of this needs to be applied for and in place at the correct time to allow construction to go ahead –and for the building to be legally occupied. Your architect’s professionalism will give you the confidence that this will be done correctly.

If you have a building project in mind, speak to an architect. The Dundee Institute of Architects represents chartered architects in Courier Country – Angus, Dundee, Fife and Perthshire. They maintain a list of architects in the area on their website at: www.dia-architects and recommend this as a first step to finding your architect.