How to Choose an Architect in Harrogate
Choosing an architect is a significant decision with permanent implications. You wouldn’t go into an important exam without putting in some hard work and revision first; similarly, the success of your building project stems from the planning stage. Therefore, it’s important to know what to look for when choosing the right architect for your project.
Here’s our top tips to help you to decide who is the best architect in Harrogate for your needs.
Accreditations
First of all, you need to look out for professional accreditations that will help you to establish the credibility of an architects’ practice. EDG Architecture is a RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) chartered practice, and we are bound by their code of conduct. We are also accredited with the ARB (Architecture Registration Board) for the maintenance of professional standards.
The title of an ‘Architect’ and the word ‘Architecture’ are protected by law in the same way that you cannot call yourself a doctor without having the appropriate qualifications. There are, however, others who use the phrases ‘architectural’ in their company name. This usually refers to ‘architectural designers’. These are individuals who produce designs without the RIBA qualification, and are therefore not able to call themselves an Architect.
Whilst this does not mean they are not capable of designing a building, it most likely means that they are not trained in design. There are some excellent architectural designers around but please ensure that they have Professional Indemnity Insurance etc before you employ them.
Exceptional Service
Get a good feel for the businesses you are considering. Check their customer ratings and feedback on Google and Facebook; look through their website and read their literature. Does the business show itself as a true expert in its field? Can you find the information you require? How easy is to make an enquiry?
Here at EDG Architecture, we pride ourselves in providing exceptional customer service – from your first interaction with us throughout the duration of your project. We achieve this by carefully listening to each of our clients, before advising and delivering on specification and plans. This is evident in our 5* google reviews as well as our testimonials from former clients.
Our website offers several free guides to help you through the process and we try to keep the advice within these as independent as possible. Our blog series is also aimed at answering the common questions that our clients and consultants raise.
Quality Counts
Customer service is one thing, but ultimately the final result of your project needs to deliver. A generic or rushed approach may save you money, but it is unlikely to service your individual needs. For a truly tailored project with an exceptional end result, look out for an architects’ practice that takes real pride in their craft and takes the time to consider your specific needs.
At EDG Architecture, we are very proud of our business and its offering. Our customers tell us that they value our architectural design, which optimises available space and makes this space work for the individual’s needs. We have brought this service to a range of different projects over the years, showing adaptability as well as consistency.
Throughout our experience, we have made valuable partnerships with expert contractors who have shown their reliability and professionalism. We are therefore very proud to be able to offer our on-site contract administration services which rely on a good relationship with builders and clients alike.
When there is so much information and activity to control, it makes sense for one expert to be at the helm throughout; from drawing project plans and writing the technical specifications, we can follow through on your brief from conception to completion.
The Right Architect for Your Needs?
Have you ever heard the phrase ‘Horses for courses’? The concept is simple, you wouldn’t put a dressage horse into a race at Cheltenham, or a jump racing horse into a race on the flat, so why would you employ an architect specialising in retail projects for your house extension?
My point is that it’s important to recognise that not all architects provide the same services. Understand exactly what an architect offers and where their particular expertise lies.
At EDG Architecture we specialise in residential design. We are pleased to offer our services for renovations, extensions and new build projects, as well as feasibility studies and master-planning for new housing developments.
We can also offer 3D visualisation of finished works; sketching for newly proposed houses; investment trust development schemes; marketing proposals; Land Registry and Title planned drawings.
We aim to add design flair to the architectural planning. Our knowledge, experience and technical expertise allows us to be adventurous, practical, inventive – even luxurious in the detail. We like to show our customers new and exciting possibilities within their brief and often thrown in that ‘curve-ball’ idea that would really add the ‘wow-factor’.
Clear Fees Structure
It’s important to understand how an architect charges their fees. To avoid unexpected fees, look out for full transparency and an honest approach to pricing.
At EDG Architecture, we operate a crystal-clear fixed fee approach which gives our customers complete security and peace of mind. Furthermore, we are absolutely committed to delivering excellent value for money in all we do - cutting no corners and only suggest trusted tradespeople.
Our customer knows exactly where they stand financially at every juncture of the project. If the price does need to be adjusted at any time, we will openly discuss this.
With our services, you get what you pay for - but crucially you get more.
The Best Architect in Harrogate?
Our experience and client feedback suggest that we tick all of the boxes. We are truly committed to doing the very best for each of our clients and are always looking for ways to further develop our offering.
If you are planning a project and we aren’t the right people to help, then you can rest assured that we will put you in touch with the company that is the right fit for you
We would welcome the opportunity to reveal the architectural possibilities in your project. Contact us here to book your free consultation.
