How much will my dream home cost?
Architect Kelly O'Driscoll discusses...
David Green from Dorchester asks...
“I’ve bought a bungalow; how much is it going to cost to make it my dream home?”
Architect Kelly O’Driscoll of Western Design Architects answers this common question.
We hear this a lot, and unfortunately the answer is “it depends…” but what does it depend on? There are many factors to consider before even beginning to build.
Surveys: A measured building survey ensures your Architect’s drawings are as accurate as they can be, these can cost from £900 to upwards of £1500 depending on the scope of works.
Ecology surveys – a bat survey is often required when altering the roof of an existing building as they are a protected species.
The Architect will inform the client of any further surveys they feel would be necessary, such as asbestos, tree and ground investigation surveys.
Professional Fees: In addition to Architect fees, you will probably require a Structural Engineer and maybe an Energy Consultant. If your site or proposal is controversial we may advise a Planning Consultant to assist with the planning process. You may want a Landscape Designer and to be really sure of costs from an early stage, a Quantity Surveyor.