F or lots of self builders, this is the time to let loose a passion for interior design and set out on the biggest and best shopping experience ever. There are many choices to be made using the wealth of ideas to be found in magazines, on TV, on the internet and at the specialist shows such as
Build It Live. The architect is there to prompt and advise on the options and then turn it all into a package of drawings and specifications with the aim of getting the most cost-effective price from a builder. Crucially, enough information must be assembled to enable each tendering contractor to calculate a reliable quote.