Loft conversion help

mummyroysof3

We have had to scrap our plans for an extension on our house and are now concise ring a loft conversion instead. It has been suggested by a few people but we are struggling to work out due to the layout of upstairs and the shape of roof how we would get a set of stairs in. Would an architect give us suggestions of possibilities without chRging us?

leveller2911

mummyroysof3 wrote: »

We have had to scrap our plans for an extension on our house and are now concise ring a loft conversion instead. It has been suggested by a few people but we are struggling to work out due to the layout of upstairs and the shape of roof how we would get a set of stairs in. Would an architect give us suggestions of possibilities without chRging us?

Contact a couple of local Joinery workshops.They will come round and give advice and a quote on the options for the layout of the staircase.They will also know the current building regulations.We have done this for a few of our customers.

Out of politeness you should consider them for the work if/when you go ahead with the loft conversion.

You would be surprised how many Architects don't know the current regulations and then sub the work out to structural engineers.Architects tend to draw pretty pictures....:D

teneighty

Speak to a couple of architectural designers (not just architects) who provide a free no obligation initial site consultation.

They should be able to give you some rough ideas about layout, timeframes, costings, fee quote etc.

deano72_2

also have a look along the neighbourhood to see if anyone else has done it,if so knock on the door & have a nosey

System

leveller2911 wrote: »

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You would be surprised how many Architects don't know the current regulations and then sub the work out to structural engineers.Architects tend to draw pretty pictures....:D

absolute nonsense!

leveller2911

the_r_sole wrote: »

absolute nonsense!

Not from personal experience, many a time they have drawn nice pictures and then you have to point out the work won't meet regs.


I've had some drawings where it was impossible to do,only when they turn up on site and you explain why they ask our advice.
Don't get me wrong I've worked for some great architects but some are dire ,knowledge of building regs is poor (especially staircases).

Regarding my remark about Architects "drawing pretty pictures" was a little tongue in cheek but does have substance. Most Of them I've worked for do just that and sub out all the drawing work to technicians.

I stand by my post on the OP contacting their local Joinery workshops for advice..

cyclonebri1

I get bored saying this but you really do not need an architect for loft conversion plans, it is fairly basic stuff and to be honest there will be little room to deviate from just possibly 1 workable option.

Check out your local rags and I mean local, there be be several people advertising "Building and design services", or "Plans drawn to local authority specification".

These are often ex local authority building control and planning personnel. They will offer advice, and suggest what will and what won't get by your area codes.

They will be cheaper than an architect, and when it comes to structural calcs they will know someone that can prove those a a very reasonable cost.

With no offence to the architectural fraternity, this is money saving.:money::money:

My 1 and only piece of advice re the actual conversion?, please oh please don't go with 1 of those spacesaver designs for the staircase, I know they are allowable if there is no alternative but oh dear are they horrid.:D:D

mummyroysof3

thankyou for the replies.

i have had a guy out that advertises as drawing plans but thought he was charging more than i was expecting. we have an architect a builder my dad knows and recomended coming out.

ive looked around the local area and cant see any dormers or i would have knocked as asked there advice. i have spent a lot of time this week looking on internet and the planning portal so have a better idea whats involved and feel more confident about what we want to do.

cyclonebri1

mummyroysof3 wrote: »

thankyou for the replies.

i have had a guy out that advertises as drawing plans but thought he was charging more than i was expecting. we have an architect a builder my dad knows and recomended coming out.

ive looked around the local area and cant see any dormers or i would have knocked as asked there advice. i have spent a lot of time this week looking on internet and the planning portal so have a better idea whats involved and feel more confident about what we want to do.

Compare the 2 you mention and give feedback, it helps others, and at least gives an indication as to whether me and others are totally wasting our breath.;)

PS, if the archytec is cheaper, go elsewhere,
If he's the same price, the same.
If he's twice the price, yep, he's an archytech

mummyroysof3

well he thinks our best option in a hip to gable roof conversion..seems the most expensive tbh but a dormer wont give us a big enough room

he is getting back to me by the weekend with a quote for his services

mummyroysof3

so he has got back to me and it it looks like its going to dost nearly £1500 for it all including building reg fees and planning etc...this seems alot as its about 10% of build cost