Appointing an architect to oversee your scheme through to completion can be a valuable investment in the long term, says Julian Owen

Part 7

Contract management

Engaging an architect for your self build comes with a raft of advantages. While high quality design is undoubtedly at the top of the list, there are plenty more benefits to working with a pro. Once your chosen practice has prepared a tender pack, you might decide to progress through the rest of your scheme without their assistance. However, this can turn out to be a false economy, as a professional has a lot more skills on offer to help you transform a set of drawings into your real-life dream home. Here, I take a closer look at the value an architect can add to your project when it comes to managing the intricacies of delivering the scheme once the design phase is complete.

Designed by Kast Architects, this stunning replacement dwelling enjoys far-reaching coastal views. The house is finished in locallysourced larch and features aluminiumclad timber frame windows.

PERFECT STAYS (WWW.PERFECTSTAYS.CO.UK)

Choosing your construction team

One of the most valuable services an architect can provide is assisting in your search for the best contractor for your requirements. The British builder often gets a hard time in the media. Television shows and newspapers like nothing better than a good story about how unwary consumers have taken on a shyster who proceeds to con them out of a small fortune, leaving them with a badly built, unfinished house. But these stories distort the true picture.

In reality, there are plenty of firms run by highly skilled, decent people who take pride in their work and leave many satisfied customers in their wake. Some don’t even have to advertise, but your architect will know many in your local area, plus the ones to avoid. For most self builders the quality of workmanship needs to be high, without threatening to break the bank. This balancing act is best performed by adhering to some simple rules.