Browse Forums General Discussion 1 Oct 10, 2013 7:58 pm We're on the Sydney North Shore and are just embarking on our first renovation. It will be a fairly straightforward addition but there are some complexities around best use of space. Our dilemma is do we go for an architect and get plans drawn up to take to a builder to quote on. This way we'd probably get the design we want but how accurate would be a cost estimate with this method. Otherwise we could go with a builder who may not necessarily be able to design us something that uses the space in the best way. Final alternative would be to use one of the all in companies who do everything but I'm told these are often the most expensive (albeit simplest) option. It's all very confusing so any advice/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Re: Builder or architect?......or both? 2Oct 11, 2013 9:46 am Your best bet is to engage either a competent draftsman or an architect to draw your plans first. A builder can do the same but would just employ one of the above then whack on a bit of profit for his trouble. A rough guide that I tell my clients is to allow $2500-$3000 per sq m for additions and renos but that does depends on how complex the work is, site access, level of finish etc. A rough sketch ( with a few overall measurements ) posted up here would give us some idea of what you are trying to achieve. Stewie Re: Builder or architect?......or both? 3Oct 11, 2013 9:52 am I think with a renovation I'd use an architect. As you say they are little more design focused and often can make the best use of the space. I'm sure there are builders that will have some sensational ideas but I tend to think there advice might be more skewed to what more economical and easier for them to build. Nothing wrong with that of course but the design is so important. http://camdenbuild.blogspot.com.au/ by invite only please pm me Re: Builder or architect?......or both? 4Oct 11, 2013 3:21 pm I'd go for a 'Building Designer' Peter Clarkson - AusDesign Australia www.ausdesign.com.au This information is intended to provide general information only. It does not purport to be a comprehensive advice. Re: Builder or architect?......or both? 5Oct 25, 2013 9:03 pm If you want a good result definitely use an architect. A good architect can adapt a concept to give you the best outcome for your budget by using standard sizes etc. Getting a builder to design your house or just someone who knows how to draw is a bad idea, might save you a few $$'s now but you'll have that house for years and good design adds lots to your resale value. Hey everyone Not for me or anyone I know, just generally interested. For a single allotment house, are you allowed to take the fence on both sides of your house and… 0 15352 Your build is relatively simple, I believe your job can be easily done by a good building designer, you really do not need to pay for the architect. Remember, architect's… 3 8360 I've just had a look at the website. The company are just building broker's. There are plenty of similar companies that basically draw your plans (they own them so you… 8 4375 |