Clarity is key in any working relationship. The partnership between a client and an architect is no exception. If you’re looking to work with an architect on your self-build or renovation, there are a few things you should know, which can make the process a lot smoother – and ensure you’re delighted with the end results…
When you’re working with any kind of expert, it’s only natural to be unsure about the value of your input. But don’t be. The purpose of a good architect is to turn your vision into a reality – and they can’t do that without hearing about your dream home.
That includes everything from your initial expectations and budget to feedback along the way. Never hold back on your honesty if something isn’t quite right!
Of course, there might be times when you genuinely want your architect to take the lead. That’s absolutely fine. What’s important is that it’s your decision. You decide your level of involvement and let your architect work to your requirements.
Knowing your budget is critical to any successful self-build or renovation project. It gives architects a better idea of what’s practical and what’s not. As discussed in our guide to setting your budget, there are a few steps to success:
That brings us nicely to the next point – the remit of an architect. With a wealth of experience in the entire process of self-building and renovation, we can do far more than most clients think.
The primary role of an architect is to create designs for your building. However, we can also help with project management, choosing contractors, or – as above – budgeting. Most importantly, we can add so much value in the process.
All too often, clients contract multiple parties to help with these tasks, or go them alone, without realising that their architect is the perfect fit.
Finally, self-builds and renovations can be difficult. Creating your dream living space or home can take time (and money), and there’s no guarantee that problems and setbacks won’t arise.
What’s important is that you have the right architects by your side to help you overcome those hurdles, rather than shirking away from the challenge. And remember, the rewards will be absolutely worth it!
Working with architects doesn’t have to be a mysterious guessing game. If you’re planning a self-build or renovation in South Yorkshire, speak to the team at CODA Bespoke.
With 40 years of experience, our RIBA-accredited architects can help you with every step toward your dream home. It all starts with a conversation – contact us today to find out more.
At the beginning of a home renovation, there are certain considerations that you need to be clear on before you make any big decisions. Let’s look at six steps to a successful home renovation below.
Begin by thinking big! Decide what your dream home looks like and what changes will make a difference to your daily life. Be specific about what you would like to improve or change. How much space do you want in your kitchen? What kind of flooring?
Deciding on your wants as well as your needs quickly helps you to start thinking logistically. Making the spare room into a walk-in dressing room might sound good, but would it be much more practical to have an extra toilet? Being clear on your vision will make the process much easier when you start explaining your plans to an architect or builder.
Make a list of contractors in your area. Things to consider, include:
Many people think they may be able to do without an architect when carrying out home renovations. But they are more invaluable than you may realise.
An architect’s job is to bring:
Even if you enjoy organising, home renovations can still catch you out with timings. You will need to make sure that you have plenty of time for every element of your project.
In particular, planning permission takes on average around 8 weeks for a ‘non-major development’. However, it is hard to know if there will be any complications and delays could occur easily. So, ensuring that you have enough time for any unexpected issues will give you the best chance of success.
Fads and spontaneous purchases for your home have their place, but not when it comes to your permanent renovations. When making decisions on how you will adjust or add to your home, future needs should be considered to get the most out of your budget.
Having a classic style will ensure that you can change up the colours and textures in a room to avoid outdating, as well as give a simpler palette, if and when you come to sell.
You only need to watch Grand Designs once to realise how easy it is for people to go over their budgets when building and renovating. Every element of renovating your home gives the opportunity for going over budget – delays with planning permission, problems with contractors and having to change halfway through your project or overspending on fixtures and fittings.
Planning from the beginning, setting a contingency and being realistic in your spending will lead you to success with your home renovation.
With over 40 years of experience, the team at CODA Bespoke are here to guide you through every element of your home renovation.
Whether you need advice on design, budgeting or contractor services, our RIBA-accredited architects are here to help.
Take a look at our self-build and renovations portfolio to get an idea of the homes we create. Or contact us today with your requirements.
But self-building doesn’t just give you the chance to be creative and innovative in the design. You are also able to take advantage of incorporating sustainable building methods to ensure your home is eco-friendly and energy efficient.
The world has become much more environmentally aware, so considering sustainable ways in your self-build will give you practical ways to do your bit for the earth too. Let’s look at 4 key aspects of sustainability that are important for your self-build.
The materials you use contribute massively to the level of sustainability of your build. These include:
One of the great advantages of sustainable self-building is reducing your costs. Keeping an eye on your bank balance when creating the size of your house is vital. You may be tempted to purchase land that is bigger than you thought, allowing you to design a home of larger proportions. Many people are of the opinion that if you are self-building, the bigger the better.
But remember, that the more reasonably sized your house is, the more you will be likely to afford to run it comfortably. So, focus on prioritising what you want in your home and the realistic costs that you will need to regularly pay out. There’s no point sitting in a mansion if it’s freezing because you can’t afford to heat it.
The construction industry has changed. Sustainable building systems are now being used in order to reduce environmental damage. There is more awareness among the industry as to what affects their carbon footprint than ever before.
Sustainable building practices used today include:
An architect’s role is to focus on the design and construction of a building. Sustainable architects particularly, focus on things that decrease the negative impact of urban development on the environment.
They use environmentally friendly materials and offer a wealth of knowledge on sustainable systems for your self-build, for example, how you can be more energy efficient. Architects work together with other contractors to ensure that everything comes together to create a coherent and effective building system.
Having an architect when building your own sustainable home is essential support. They will be able to advise you on everything you are unsure of and guide you through your bespoke design.
It’s clear that sustainable living has many advantages. So, what are you waiting for? CODA Bespoke’s knowledgeable team can help guide you through the process of incorporating sustainable methods into your self-build.
If sustainability and long-term energy efficiency appeal to you, contact us today and let our RIBA-accredited architects support you as you create your new home.
So where do you start? How do you begin to visualise the design and scale of your self-build? Let’s have a look at the best ways to find inspiration.
Instagram is a very useful platform when you are looking for advice and inspiration for your self-build project. It is a well-established resource, having been around for nearly 13 years and boasting 500 million users every day.
If you are looking for inspiration for your self-build project, you’ll find a wide variety of ideas and created projects to motivate and inspire you. For example:
It is easy to be inspired when you see glossy images of a beautifully unique, spacious and creative self-build. The dream of your having own build completed becomes closer as you see the possibilities and what is achievable. CODA Bespoke’s website shows a wide range of unique and awe-inspiring projects that can help you dream big as you visualise your own self-build.
Corn Yard in Sheffield, for instance, is an award-winning build by designers and identical twins, Nik and Jon Daughtry. Featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs, Nik and Jon were inspired to build two energy-efficient five-bedroom homes, made from untreated materials, on the site of a 200-year-old corn mill.
Pinterest is a virtual pin board with a social network that enables you to collect and save ideas, as well as discover the latest trends in whatever area you are interested in. It is an excellent way to give you a much clearer vision of what you want to achieve.
You can also browse other people’s boards on everything relating to self-building to help inspire and inform you. A few useful ones are:
There’s nothing like being able to talk to experts face-to-face and see visual representations of what your self-build could be. If this is something that would help inspire you, then going to a homebuilding show could be for you. For example, the National Self-build and Renovation Show is held across the country in venues such as the NEC in Birmingham and ExCel in London.
Advice and information are on hand from multiple experts, so whether you need advice on materials, home energy systems or looking for general inspiration for your design – you will be in the right place.
Also, help is available through the National Self-build and Renovation Centre. Open all year round, expert exhibitors share advice and help you find inspiration for your self-build and renovation plans.
Whatever way you are inspired to self-build, CODA Bespoke is on hand to help you as you move forward with your project. Our award-winning team create high-quality projects, prioritising your inspired brief with innovative design.
Take a look at our self-build and renovations portfolio to get a feel for the homes we create. Or contact us today to take your first step towards your unique self-built home.
There’s nothing more exciting than creating your own home that’s completely in tune with the way you live. Like most self-builders, you’ll want high-spec and good quality materials to create a forever house where your family can grow and enjoy life. It sounds like a dream because it is one. But to make it a reality, you can’t skim over the budget.
It is incredibly easy to fall into the abyss of bank loans and stretch your budget until you forget what it was to start with. If you want to self-build, and follow your project through to completion, then knowing where your money is going is imperative.
Read on for three tips on how to set a self-build budget that will allow you to see that dream come to fruition.
Work out your budget in the early stages of your project and don’t rush. Take time to make sure you have covered all eventualities and are realistic in your spending. If this step isn’t taken at the beginning, the cost of your self-build could spin rapidly out of control.
Do thorough research and make as many decisions as possible. For example, decide on planning applications, materials, and tradespeople, and approve the design and layout. Make a schedule that is clear and easy to refer to. Link it in with your expenditure so you can keep a clear record of costs. This will also signal when you need to order materials.
Having a clear vision on the page of what you want will help save money further down the line.
Setting a contingency of 10%-20% will help you stay on track with your spending and stop you from going over budget. In many cases, the unforeseen costs come from below ground. It can be impossible to guess at the foundations until the ground has been broken. Preparing complicated foundations can eat into your budget fast, so it is prudent to ensure you are ready for any extra issues with your build.
It may be tempting to try to research and face build issues independently. But using an expert’s advice can really save money in the long run. Being realistic about your own level of knowledge and expertise allows you to take advice from the start that will help things go smoothly. An experienced professional will keep things on track, avoid any mistakes, and can negotiate the best deals.
At CODA Bespoke, we have over 40 years of experience in creating homes with that special something. Our team of RIBA-accredited architects can help you with every step of your self-build journey, including the all-important budget
As well as advising on affordability and other practicalities, we can help you get the most out of your budget with professional design, procurement and delivery services.
Take a look at our self-build and renovations portfolio to get a feel for the homes that we create. Or contact us today to take the first step towards your dream self-build home.
When starting a building project, it is tempting to take on the bulk of the job yourself – especially if you have building or renovation experience. Hiring an architect for the entire project can sometimes be dismissed in favour of keeping costs down.
But the many benefits of having an expert alongside you can’t be overlooked. Not least – less stress and a smoother working environment. Read on for six advantages of hiring an architect from start to finish.
An architects’ extensive knowledge of the building and design process will make your project much smoother. You will have their guidance right from the conception of your vision, so decisions can be made confidently. Their knowledge on building regulations and planning permission will be invaluable to avoid delays in getting your project started.
Having an experienced architect designing plans for you is a massive plus. They can use their skills to select the right layout based on your lifestyle. Or utilise the most scenic views and features with the correct house orientation. With an architect’s designs, you will be assured of a space that will be completely in tune with your life.
A major benefit in hiring an architect throughout your project is that they can recommend quality contractors. They are able to review proposals for you and make sure everything has been included. They may also be able to match you with a contractor they feel you will get on well with. This can help avoid any clashes of personality further down the line.
Being involved with your project from the beginning means your architect has a full understanding of every element. They can advise on the right materials based on your design, budget, and functionality of the space.
You can keep a friendly, cooperative relationship with your contractor by allowing your architect to deal with any tough aspects of negotiations. If you are starting your build with little experience, it is good to have an expert to represent your interests.
Using an architect not only gives you a unique and thoughtful design, but also the benefit of low running costs. Architects can advise on solar techniques and other energy saving features to ensure your home is considerate to the environment. With the right expertise on your side, you will have a good chance of lowering your bills.
As you can see, architects can add value at every step of the house building process. As RIBA-accredited professionals, the team at CODA Bespoke can give you the support you need to take your vision from concept to completion.
If you’re thinking of starting your journey to build your own home and would like to talk it through with an expert, contact our friendly team today.
If you’re planning a self-build or an extension, obtaining planning permission can be frustrating. That’s especially true if you’re hoping to build in a conservation area.
Unsure about where to start? In this post, we’ll clear the fog and explain the key details you need to know to get planning permission in a conservation area.
Conservation areas were first established in the 1960s with the purpose of preserving and enhancing areas of “special architectural or historic interest”. There are around 10,000 conservation areas within the UK. They can cover everything from historic landmarks and groups of buildings to entire sections of cities.
To find out if you’ll be building in a conservation area, you can search on your council’s website to view any local conservation areas.
Your local authority will have a specialised planning department, which is the responsible body for protecting conservation areas. You’ll need to meet more robust design standards when building a new property in a conservation area, and you may also be prevented from making certain types of alterations to existing constructions. Even minor alterations, that are not usually likely to require permission, will usually need approval in a conservation area.
There are a wide range of alterations that may require permission, so you should always research the specific guidelines for your local area. However, aside from construction of new properties, the aspects you’ll need to obtain permission for include demolition, tree removal, certain extensions, cladding, solar panels and new outbuildings.
So, how can you boost your chances of gaining planning permission in a conservation area? There are several steps you can take:
Applying for planning permission in a conservation area can be a minefield. Rather than risk your dream property being rejected, it’s important to have the experts on hand.
With over 40 years of collective industry experience, CODA Bespoke understand the ins and outs of self-build design – including the confusing planning stage. From planning drawings to developing your designs, we have the skills and know-how to create your ideal home.
Ready to get the ball rolling? Take a look at our self-build portfolio for inspiration, or get in touch with our helpful team today.
Some homes are stepping stones, and others are meant for life. If you’re dreaming of finally opening the doors to your self-build forever home, there are a few things to consider first.
Your forever home should be the last home you own, so it’s important for every detail to be perfect. Here are five of the main things to consider...
Making the right use of space is arguably the most important factor in creating a successful forever home. It’s all about considering your day-to-day needs. What kind of rooms will you require?
Whether you’re aiming for privacy or hoping for a more communal home that brings your loved ones together, discussing your plans with your architect can help you to develop a home that provides enough space for all of life’s adventures.
Trends are fun, but it’s no secret that they quickly go out of style (think pistachio-coloured bathrooms!). Outdated homes will require further redecorating down the line, so it’s better to avoid brash colours and detailed patterns.
Instead, go with understated shades and classically designed architecture for a style you’ll never get tired of.
Lives can change overnight. That’s why it’s important that your home is adaptable to all of life’s ups and downs. This can mean future-proofing your home or developing a multi-generational space as your family grows. Creating communal, as well as private, spaces can help your family to spend quality time together. You’ll also need to ensure your home is accessible for later life, for example, by installing a downstairs bedroom with en-suite bathroom.
One of the best things about self-building your home is that you can customise it to your needs. Your forever home is a space completely unique to you. That means you can add in spaces to do all the things you love.
Whether it’s a home gym, crafting space or even a cinema room, taking the time to tailor your home to your interests turns a self-build house into a forever home.
It goes without saying that forever homes need to stand the test of time – and that’s especially true if the plan is for future generations to take on your home when you’re gone. Investing in high-quality materials might require more expensive upfront costs, but they can make a big difference in the long run.
Cheaper materials are more likely to require renovation work later down the line – and that means long-term costs building up for you and your family.
Building a forever home requires time and expertise. So, if you want to get it right first time, it’s best to enlist the help of the experts.
At CODA Bespoke, our RIBA-accredited architects have over 40 years of experience and a whole host of awards and nominations under our belts. That means we’re best-placed to create a perfect home you’ll want to stay in for the rest of your days.
If you’d like to learn more about our services, speak with our friendly team today. Alternatively, take a look through our self-build and renovations portfolio to get a feel for what we create.
You never know what tomorrow will bring – and that’s true for your self-build home too. If you’re worried about needing to move as your life progresses, you can eliminate the anxiety by ensuring you future-proof your self-build.
Planning to raise a family? Or to provide accommodation to elderly relatives? Wherever life takes you, you’ll know your home is built for every eventuality. Here’s how…
Self-building a home can be costly, so it’s tempting to go for the cheapest options during the initial construction stage. However, this might not be the best long-term solution. Poorer quality materials may mean more repairs and replacements are required through your property’s lifespan. So, whether it’s triple-glazing or choosing the right insulation, it’s better to spend more upfront than having to fork out for costly replacements just a few years down the line.
As energy bills continue to rise, it’s more important than ever for homes to incorporate sustainable design. There are many ways to achieve this – from choosing a renewable energy source such as an air source heat pump, installing solar panels, or by selecting sustainable insulation. As a gold standard, properties should aim to meet the guidelines required to be recognised as a ‘Passivhaus’.
Technology can ensure your home is equipped to take on the challenges of the future. Keep your possessions safe with an automated home security system that you can control remotely from a smartphone app. Why stop there? Everything from heating to lighting can be automated, making your home easier to use – as well as adding to its value should you decide to sell.
Lives change – and our homes have to change with them. You might be working from home, then decide to start a family. In a standard house, that could mean it’s time for yet another move. But in a future-proof self-build, that doesn’t have to be the case.
By creating rooms that can be used for multiple purposes, you open out the possibilities for your home. Using flexible partitions, for example, allows you to transform an open plan room into separate home-office and nursery spaces.
As you enjoy life in your forever home, you need to be sure that it can meet your needs at every life stage. Ensuring, for example, that you have a fully accessible downstairs bathroom and bedroom is a key preparation for later life.
Providing enough room for a stairlift and wheelchair access through doors and hallways prepares your home for your twilight years. Consulting the Lifetime Homes standard could provide you with further ideas for a multi-generational home.
The best homes are built to last a lifetime. If you’d like to build a house that will truly stand the test of time, it’s important to have the experts by your side. CODA Bespoke has over 40 years of experience creating life-changing self-build properties, making us the perfect choice to create your dream home.
If you’re ready to step out into your self-build journey, get in touch with our expert team today. Or take a look at our portfolio for inspiration.
