Architects and architectural designers are essential for all kinds of building and home improvement projects in the UK. They provide designs that match if not exceed expectations, and they create relevant drawings to gain legally required permissions, like planning and building control approval, but above all else, they ensure a project is done well and properly.
That is of course being extremely brief. The role of an architectural professional is much larger than that, and whether you are working with a local architect in Manchester, where we are based, or a national organisation, there are particular roles that are vital to a well-finished project.
What Projects Do You Need an Architect for?
Whilst larger companies such as ourselves offer design and build services in which we can have both the architectural and building work taken care of within our own team, many organisations may not have this option available, or choose to specialise as architects in their respective industries or locations.
An architect or architectural designer is useful for tasks like:
- Creating concept designs of what you want your finished project to look like
- Securing planning permission
- Gaining a certificate of lawful development if you use permitted development rights
- Creating building regulations drawings
- Getting building control approval
- Creating 3D renderings
And much more too
In a nutshell, they design and execute every stage of a project that needs careful planning or permissions. That might be an extension, a loft conversion, a garage or barn, or anything in between.
From initial ideas to approved planning & building control applications, they’re a vital tool in doing things correctly and legally.
Do All Projects Need Planning Permission?
Whilst almost all projects that involve changing some kind of structure or adding to the exterior of a property may well benefit from some form of planning process, they certainly don’t all require full planning permission.
Even loft conversions, house extensions and conservatories are often exempt from needing full planning permission provided they fit certain criteria, and this is done using what is known as your permitted development rights.
Understanding Permitted Development Rights
Permitted Development rights offer a streamlined process for certain home improvements, bypassing the need for planning permission. For conservatories and house extensions, specific criteria must be met:
You don’t need planning permission for conservatories or house extensions if:
- A maximum of half the area of land around the “original house”* can be covered by extensions or other buildings.
- Extensions cannot be higher than the highest part of the existing roof; or higher at the eaves than the existing eaves.
- Where the extension comes within two metres of the boundary* the height at the eaves cannot exceed three metres.
- Extension cannot be built forward of the ‘principal elevation’ or, where it fronts a highway, the ‘side elevation’.
- The work cannot include:
- verandas, balconies or raised platforms.
- a microwave antenna (e.g. TV aerial or satellite dish).
- a chimney, flue or soil and vent pipe.
- any alteration to the roof of the existing house.
Loft Conversions do not need planning permission as long as:
- Any additional roof space created must not exceed 40 cubic metres for terraced houses and 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses.
- Any previous roof space additions must be included within this volume allowance. Although you may not have created additional space a previous owner may have done so.
- An extension beyond the plane of the existing roof slope of the principal elevation that fronts a highway is NOT permitted development.
- Materials to be similar in appearance to the existing house.
- No part of the extension is to be higher than the highest part of the existing roof.
- Verandas, balconies or raised platforms are NOT included in permitted development.
- Any side-facing windows must be obscure glazed and non-opening unless the parts which can be opened are more than 1.7 metres above the floor of the room in which it is installed
What About Building Regulations & Building Control Approval?
While permitted development rights streamline the planning process, adhering to building regulations is crucial for ensuring quality and safety standards. Building regulations cover various aspects of construction, from structural integrity to energy efficiency, providing a framework for compliance.
Building Regulations are extremely useful for quality building work to take place and are always recommended if working on any significant home improvements. They ensure all UK standards for quality and safety are met and that any workers or builders have something to work from when beginning a project.
Building regulations drawings are again done by an architectural professional, and they detail things like safety, materials, access, heat, light, and generally ensure that a finished project will be of legal standard in the UK. These drawings are submitted to building control who give approval for the work to be built in advance. That saves a lot of time and money over just kicking things off and seeing if it works out down the line.
Summary
Ultimately, an architect or an architectural designer is always a good idea on any large improvement project to make sure a project is done right. They design things from the very beginning, ensuring a clear vision, proper permissions and a solid design you can visualise before it comes to life, keeping you informed before the build begins.
