A-Z of Self Build Guides How To Design A Self Build Home

Date Published:

30/05/2008

The Professionals

Draughtsmen
Don't dismiss technical draughtsmen (or women) or architectural technologists for a self-build. Larger kit home companies may use the services of draughtsman and if you want a fairly conventional looking property, then you may find a draughtsman will be able to handle the design.

These are often very skilled people who may also have a lot of practical experience liaising with local building companies.

They are often less expensive than an architect, although you are only paying for the design and technical drawings that can be submitted for planning approval and that your builders can work with. Expect to pay around two per cent of the build cost for this plans service.

An architectural technologist can help you to incorporate unusual materials into your self build project.

Architectural Technologists

Members of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) also offer design services and specialise in the science bit of a build, especially important when you want to use non-standard materials. They can form the link between a cutting edge design and the actual construction. Just like architects, they can be employed for as much of the process as necessary, right up to managing the build and handing over the keys.

There are no standard fee structures, it's a case of negotiating the best price.

Surveyors

Surveyors are often called the property professionals and some have additional design qualifications needed to design and oversee your project. The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) can find you local contacts.

Skye Homes
www.skyehomes.co.uk

Architect's Registration Board
www.arb.org.uk

RIBA
www.architecture.com

RIAS
www.rias.org.uk

CIAT
www.ciat.org.uk

RICS
www.rics.org