The design of your project is at the core of every successful self-build. Pick the right individual and you’ll be on track to building your dream home. Finding the right architect or house designers in your area is an important move from the start. So how do you find an architect or house designer?

The options for finding an architect or house designers in your area

Package home companies

When finding architects or designers in your area, package home companies offer an in-house design service (usually as part of a build package) that is as flexible as you want it to be. Often, they sell off-the-shelf designs, and you might decide to base your house on one of these or an adaptation of one. Or you can have a completely bespoke design drawn-up. This is hugely advantageous if you’ve already decided on a build method, such as an oak or timber frame. The designer will have an in-depth specialist knowledge of the construction process and will know how to get the very best out of your design.

Fees are usually lower than going independent – companies rely on a successful design becoming the clincher for the build. If you’ve already got a design from an independent architect and need specialist input, don’t panic. Package companies are a great place to start when finding an architect as they are well equipped to work their magic. They can turn any drawings into a design compatible with their build method.

Architects

Architects have trained for seven years, studying the design and construction of every type of building and arming them with a wealth of knowledge. They will be registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and likely to have membership of the Royal Institute of Architects (RIBA).

Architectural technologists take more of a science and technology approach to design and build projects. They may have chartership under the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT).

Architectural designers won’t have trained as long as an architect or architectural technologist but are likely to have design experience to degree level.

The search for an architect or house designer

Know your build method

It pays to put your efforts into finding the right package company first, rather than the right architect. You’ll benefit from their specialist design and build expertise.

Word-of-mouth

A good way to find an architect or designer is to ask friends, family, colleagues to recommend architects/designers they’ve worked with. Also search local community chat forums. Someone else in your area may have already asked for recommendations or place a request of your own.

Look around you

A good way to find an architect is to look at projects that catch your eye when you’re out and about. They are likely to have an advertising board with details of the architect/designer/package house company.

Cast your net wider

When it comes to finding an architect, the company doesn’t have to be local. Most operate nationwide so read self-build magazines, like Build It, Homebuilding & Renovating and Grand Designs for inspiration. Self-build exhibitions and shows are ripe for research too. Package house companies often exhibit and you might get the chance to meet an architect or designer in person and chat to them about the work they do.

The decision when choosing an architect or house designer

Draw-up a shortlist

When it comes to finding an architect have a meeting with each architect/designer and provide a rough budget and brief about your project. Check they have capacity to take on your work and can give you an idea of when they could start.

Get to know them

Keep talking – a good architect/designer is someone who asks questions. They think the way you do and has the creative vitality you need for your project. You need to feel comfortable around them and trust they will deliver what they promise. Compatibility and communication from both sides are key.

What else do you need when finding an architect or house designer?

Besides drawings, 3D design and fully detailed architectural plans, other architectural services include a feasibility study for your plot, surveys, getting planning permission, tendering for a builder and contract administration. Package house companies will also build the structure of your home and some are able to manage the entire project.

Sign on the dotted line

Agree the brief, scope of works, timings, budget and payment schedule, then have a formal contract written up.