Seven things you should consider before starting an architectural project

If you’re looking to commence an architectural project at your premises, this blog post is for you. It’s highly recommended to hire an architecture company, just like Tom Withers Architecture, to ensure you are maximising your project, ensuring all legalities, and more. In this latest blog post, we’ll be covering the top 7 things you should consider before your project begins.

Let’s get started…

Define Your Goals

Although the first point seems pretty obvious, it’s well worth noting. Defining your goals before commencing with your architectural project is absolutely imperative. Whether it’s a conversion, extension, or a new build architecture project, defining your goals is always the first step to success. It’s important to determine what you hope to achieve throughout the design and planning service as that’s what you’ll see come to fruition upon completion. Take some time to understand your objectives and ensure that your vision clearly matches up.

For example, a clear goal might be ”Convert an outdated room into a master bedroom suite with en-suite and dressing room that centres around functionality but also has a fantastic aesthetic appeal”

Your Budget

Another thing to consider before starting an architectural project is your budget. In an ideal world, we would all love an unlimited budget to do whatever we wanted to. However, this isn’t realistic. There are many different questions to consider here and the more precise you get with your answers, the better it will be for you. Consider the cost of materials, labour, permits, and any additional expenses associated with the project. Be sure to factor in a contingency fund for unexpected costs. Here are some key questions you may want to consider regarding the budget:

What is your minimum budget?
What is your maximum budget?
What is my ideal spend on this architectural project?
Could the project be undertaken in stages?

Functionality & Space Planning

The functional requirements of your project should be established within the early stages. It’s important to carefully analyse functionality and space planning. There are many elements to consider including considerations such as; how will spaces be used? How will the space flow from one room to another? … and the list goes on. Of course, architecture practices just like our team at Tom Withers Architecture are here to help with dedicated space planning services that will enable you to fully maximise your space.

Timeframes

Creating a realistic timeline for your architectural project, including key milestones and project phases, can help to create clarity. It’s important to consider the time required for design development, approvals, procurement, construction, and any other relevant factors. A well-defined timeline helps manage expectations and ensures a smoother project progression. Here are some further key considerations that you may need to consider around your unique circumstances:

What are my ideal timeframes for the project to start?
What are my ideal timeframes for the project to finish?
Am I able to provide flexibility in between?
Are there any important life events that should be affected?

Aesthetics and Design

Another key factor to consider before starting your architectural project is to consider your preferences when it comes to aesthetics and design. It’s recommended to conduct research with an architecture practice to explore various architectural styles, plans, and drawings. And of course, Tom Withers Architecture can provide exactly that for you in 3D designs using industry-leading software. Balancing aesthetics with functionality is key to achieving an architectural project that is visually appealing and practical.

Your Ideal Outcome

It’s a great thing to reverse engineer from the end of your project. Step into it, see what it looks like, and feel how it feels. The more vivid the vision, the better the architectural plans and drawings will be to reflect exactly that. Think about the intricate details that make a home and/or a space feel homely. Elements such as lighting, furniture, and different spaces within the room should all be considered. Imagine yourself living in these spaces and how they would intertwine.

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Another imperative thing to consider is legal and regulatory requirements. Before applying for planning permission, if required, it’s important to gather as much information as you can about the regulations for buildings and extensions. For example, you can seek out local building codes, zoning regulations, and permits required for construction. Tom Withers Architecture also provides dedicated planning permission services where all applications can be submitted on your behalf.

Our Residential Services

Here at Tom Withers Architecture, we provide a wide range of residential architecture services to ensure all angles are covered. Services include the following;-

Contact Us Today

Are you looking to partner with a local and trusted architecture practice in Cheshire for your project? If so, look no further than Tom Withers Architecture. We provide a wide range of services including residential architecture, new build architecture, and space planning. Call us today at 01260 277175 or use our contact form.