How Would Using an Interior Architect Benefit Me?

Regardless of the need, an interior architect might just have the solution for you. From solving your spatial problems to turning your dreams into a reality, these specialists have the knowledge, skills, and resources to achieve your design goals on time and on budget!

An interior architect will research the project through an in-depth analysis of your needs and activities along with the given space. They work with engineers, contractors, and consultants to determine service requirements and develop a plan that incorporates future growth potential and new technologies. Design, development, specification and documentation are all parts of the interior architecture process that precede the costing and construction of any project. Supervising construction and regularly communicating with the builders and contractors is also important. Ultimately, interior architecture takes into account the anticipated behavioral activities of a client to create an intentional psychological experience through planning and design. But are you sure that you can handle all of that? If you were planning on handling your own renovations, you might wish to find out how an interior architect might benefit you before engaging in what could be an overwhelming and costly process.

Whether you are renovating your loft to create a spare bedroom for guests, engaging in property upgrades to increase rental income or renovating an old property to start a new business, an interior architect will be able to design a plan that will benefit the project from start to finish. But is hiring an interior architect an unnecessary expense or a worthwhile investment? With tight budgets and limited resources, you're probably wondering if an interior architect is the right choice for you. Let's review some considerations to see how using a specialist of this nature can benefit you.

Knowledge

As humans, we typically know what we want and what we like. Design and lifestyle is uniquely personal and we all aspire to live and work in environments that reflect our personalities. Interior architects are trained and qualified in their fields to articulate your vision into an actual design and plan. In addition to having access to industry contacts and product information which is not readily available to the general public, they possess knowledge about the effect of proportions, dimensions, perspectives, surfaces, textures and colours not only on a structure itself but on our physical and emotional reactions to that structure. It is these very fundamental elements of design that can turn a house into a home or an office into an energized and motivational environment. The specialized and in-depth knowledge interior architects possess can assist you with your design needs and analyzing your requirements, assessing the feasibility of projects, and ultimately defining and realizing your goals.

Time & Financial Resources

Whether a project is residential or commercial, it can be a significant financial investment and the process can be time consuming. Mistakes are costly and the impact of both financial pressure and time constraints can turn what should be an enjoyable experience into an absolute nightmare. But an interior architect can design a plan based on your needs and budget making any project affordable. Typically, most people are unaware of the various ways that interior architects can actually save them money. For example, many interior architects possess the added skill of being able to source items at wholesale prices, and also have access to a much wider variety of products that are generally not available to the public. For the time deprived home or business owner, this represents an incredible added value. The other important consideration is that mistakes are costly. Many people engage in major renovations only to later realize that one or several key aspects of the space simply don't work well together. This results in a substantial amount of money that must be spent again trying to rectify the problem in order to finally turn your dream into a reality.

Doing Things Right the First Time

With an interior architect, you pay them to get things right the first time and eliminate any margin of error which is exactly what they are trained to do. It's a simple case of pay now or pay later. When you work with an interior architect from the inception of a project, you are best equipped to ensure that your home, office, or business achieves the spatial, visual, and decoration requirements in order to move right in. It is always important to remember that interior architects are experts in space, technical design and drafting and it is these skills that save you money in the long run by making sure that you get the space that you have always wanted right from the very start. Interior architects can alleviate the pressure of costly mistakes to create a design and source the materials and products, which deliver the desired outcome. They have the ability to create a design which you simply couldn't have comprehended by yourself but which you will absolutely love. They can source materials that you didn't even know were on the market but are perfectly suited to your project. Furthermore, they can ensure that the design and orientation of the space will produce energy efficiencies, the dimensions of the rooms suit their purpose, and that life overall is as efficient as possible. The time and cost savings which these initiatives deliver is considerable.

Managing Contractors and Builders

With any construction project comes the need for contractors and builders. An interior architect will produce comprehensive architectural drawings and specifications that will maximize the prospect of your builder and sub-contractors completing your project without error, without the need for variations, on time and most importantly, on budget. In addition to being skilled in developing designs, an interior architect will be able to produce the technical drawings required to sufficiently explain the design to a builder along with the necessary communication skills and experience to be able to coordinate all of the people required from inception through to the completion of the project. Furthermore, your interior architect will be able to source materials and products at wholesale prices.

Tips For Becoming An Architect   Finding The Right New Home Builders Can Be Challenging   The Importance Of Having House Plans Before You Build   How We Can Be Better Prepared for Cases of Extreme Weather   

How Do I Find a Good Interior Architect?

So you finally decided that you want to employ an interior architect to turn your interior dream into a reality? But with all of the varying degrees of skills, experience and knowledge required, how could you possibly know if you found the right one? These specialists often challenged with a certain task when asked to design an interior space for a commercial, retail, or residential client. A retailer may ask to design a space that fosters consumer spending while a commercial client may ask to design a space that promotes workplace productivity. Whatever the task at hand, a successful project relies on selecting the right interior architect. Let`s review some of the considerations in order to help you match the right professional to the right project.

Education

Since an interior architect is the marriage of the three different design disciplines of interior design, architecture, and industrial design, knowledge is a critical asset. Let`s start with the basics. Be sure to check on the education credentials, along with their years of experience. Most interior architects will possess at least a bachelor`s degree in interior architecture.

Licensures & Accreditation

In addition to their base knowledge of general architecture, interior design, and product design, it is imperative that the designer is abreast of current design trends, planning and building regulations. You can check with your Local Authority Building Control department to determine if they are working with an interior architect within their partnership scheme. This may assist in determining whether your chosen interior architect is up to date on knowledge of local building regulations. In certain jurisdictions, an interior architect may be able to become certified by a national or regional organization that is dedicated to the industry or profession.

A Good Sense of Design

This category might be too obvious to mention but certainly not one to overlook. They must have an understanding of how space, scale, colours, and furnishings can alter an interior environment. They must know how to manipulate these elements to create a specific mood. The theoretical and conceptual possibilities are explored within interior architecture, in cooperation with the pragmatic concerns of clients, to create innovative, meaningful spaces that facilitate the ordinary and extraordinary activities of people at home, work, or play. A great project starts with a great concept and a good sense of design is critical to achieving this goal. Evaluate your designer`s portfolio and past projects. This will be your best way of determining their design ability.

Specialization

Many interior architects will carry a specialty either in residential or commercial buildings. Their portfolio and past project history will be a strong indicator of their specialization. Some may specialize in niches such as theatres, retail spaces, exhibition halls, or other types of buildings. Be sure to select a professional that is experienced with your particular project. Regardless of their specialization, good interior architects should have a solid working knowledge of interior construction, building systems and components, regulations, equipment, materials and furnishings. They should also be acquainted with the technicalities of electrical wiring and plumbing.

Project Management & Communication Skills

They must have strong written, oral, and visual communication skills. They must visually interpret verbal instructions and suggestions. Furthermore, they must be creative within the constraints of a budget. This is particularly important in preventing cost overruns. Look for someone with a team-oriented attitude, an attention to detail and an ability to meet deadlines. Projects are generally undertaken in collaboration with a team of specialist architects, engineers, and consultants to manage and coordinate a client`s needs. An interior architect needs to be able to coordinate with these professionals in order to facilitate and maximize a productive working relationship. Being able to explain design ideas clearly to all parties and to solve problems effectively and efficiently will ensure a seamless execution of any project.

These are just some of the various aspects to consider when selecting the right interior architect for you. You will find these specialists in a variety of firms, companies and agencies. Most work in small architectural firms, though some work for commercial building companies or government agencies. Some will work alongside architects or construction companies on a contract basis. Others will collaborate as part of a team of production designers in an architectural firm`s production studio.

If you have reviewed all of the various considerations and still don`t have a candidate that stands above the rest, don`t forget to request references and contact past clients for their opinions and recommendations. Often contacting someone who has already been through a similar process can assist you in finding the right match for you without making the same mistakes they did. Alternatively, going with your gut might just be the defining factor. Trust is arguably the most important variable of selecting your interior architect. If most of your candidates appear the same on paper, you might feel more comfortable selecting the candidate that you trust the most and find the most personal rapport. After all, they are designing your dream, and the person most qualified to articulate your dream in a design might just be the person who identifies with you the most.

Tips For Becoming An Architect   Finding The Right New Home Builders Can Be Challenging   The Importance Of Having House Plans Before You Build   How We Can Be Better Prepared for Cases of Extreme Weather   

Reasons To De-Clutter

5 Reasons to De-Clutter Before You List Your Home for Sale

If you think you can go through and get rid of all that clutter when it comes time to pack up and move out of your home, think again. Before you list your home for sale, you've got to make de-cluttering a priority.

Here's why:

1. You need to show off your home's natural beauty

Your house has its own character, personality, and beautiful features. If you want to sell your home sooner rather than later, you have to make sure that potential buyers get to see all of them.

If, for example, you've got an awesome wooden fireplace in your living room that really adds a unique character to the entire house, show it off! But if you've got a ton of family pictures sitting on the mantle or a ton of knick-knacks around it, potential buyers are going to be distracted -- and that's the last thing you want!

2. Clutter makes your home look smaller

If your master bedroom has random stuff shoved into every nook and cranny, it's going to create a major optical illusion. By covering up all of that floor and wall space, you're making the room look a whole lot smaller than it really is -- and that's a big problem.

Remember, American homebuyers don't have as much money as they did a few years ago. In fact, recent studies show that the average American has lost 40% of his net worth since the recession began. As a result, many homebuyers are trying to do more with less. Instead of buying that giant (expensive) house, they're looking at more affordable (smaller) options. As a result, they want to make the most out of every single inch.

Bottom line -- you're doing your home a real disservice if you make it look smaller than it really is. In the end, you'll wind up with a lot of people passing on it!

3. People want to see storage space

As excited as potential buyers might be about your great backyard, your updated master bathroom, or your gourmet kitchen, they also want to know that your home offers a ton of space for all their stuff. Prepare for them to dig around in closets, in your basement, in your garage, and in your attic.

Unfortunately, if all those places are jammed full of stuff, potential buyers may not be able to tell how much storage space your home really has to offer. If they think there's any possibility they're going to be cramped if they move in, they're never going to buy.

4. You may not even see it -- but potential buyers will

If you've had that pile of shoes and umbrellas sitting by your front door for the past five years, you probably don't even notice them anymore. However, everyone who walks in to tour your house will! Something as minor as a cluttered foyer can make a poor first impression. And once potential buyers have even a remotely bad feeling about your home, it's tough to get them back!

5. Clutter makes the house yours -- not theirs

Remember, your goal is to make potential buyers feel like they can call your house "home". But if you've got clutter all over the place -- like magazines, personal trinkets, and even messy computer or TV wires -- it makes the home feel distinctly yours. Potential buyers will feel like they're walking through your personal space, instead of envisioning themselves living there.

Tips For Becoming An Architect   Finding The Right New Home Builders Can Be Challenging   The Importance Of Having House Plans Before You Build   How We Can Be Better Prepared for Cases of Extreme Weather   

Measured Building Survey: For Better Property Management

Property surveys have today become an integral part of the steps taken towards better asset management and find varied applications in the construction industry. Getting a survey done prior to investing in land can help you to avoid a lot of troubles in the future. Not only do they reduce the risk of future expenditure, but they also help you to know in advance the limitations of the property. Apart from the property surveys, you can also look into various other associated aspects of the property such as environmental certification, zoning opinion letter, floodplain classification, etc.

A typical measured building survey generally includes floor plans, elevations, sections, photo imaging and 3D models of the property. Visible as well as invisible structural elements are vividly depicted in the results. Properties ranging from small standalone buildings to large commercial and industrial establishments can be accurately surveyed by an efficient measured building surveyor. Interpretation of survey data can be complex if a lot of details are included; otherwise they are fairly simple for people to understand and follow.

Laser surveying has also become extremely popular nowadays due to its ability to provide greater precision and details in survey results. Laser scanning surveying offers a great platform to capture the intricate details of a site including measurements, dimensions and even colour. It can help generate an accurate 3D model of virtually any structure in a very short amount of time. The output imagery can be presented in various forms, ranging from simple 'Point Clouds' to full 3D models. The clarity with which the utility lines, access points, telephone or electricity wiring, etc. can be determined empowers people to make better choices and decisions.

When it comes to looking for survey services, it is important to consider the accreditation of the service providers so that you can completely rely on them and avoid costly and time consuming mistakes. A proven track record of successful completion of projects is generally a fair indicator of their efficiency and reliability. They should be able to provide a fast turnaround time for generating the survey results and should be cost and time efficient so that clients realise their moneys worth. Purchasing or renovating a property is one of the biggest investments made by an individual or company; hence it is advisable that one should not overlook or ignore the necessity of surveys as this factor can be critical to success and peace in the future.

Tips For Becoming An Architect   Finding The Right New Home Builders Can Be Challenging   The Importance Of Having House Plans Before You Build   How We Can Be Better Prepared for Cases of Extreme Weather   

Extensions for Listed Buildings

Though buildings may be listed in full, it is still possible to add an extension on the condition that you retain or add era-appropriate features and follow the listed guidelines when doing so. The main reason for this is so the addition to your home looks great not only in terms of design but also in style. There are 3 types of listed buildings and are split into the following:

Grade II - These are special interest buildings and most likely lived in by homeowners - these make up 92% of all listed buildings.

Grade II* - These are buildings of more than special interest - 5.5% of listed buildings. Grade I - Buildings of International Interest - around 2.5% of listed buildings.

It's important to note that these rules are subject to criminal law and not planning law as many people think. However, an extension or partial demolition is not out of the question, and planning permission for a conservatory or orangery is not as hard to get as you may think.

Architectural Considerations Some of the most common and also most suited extensions consist of modern architectural takes on the classical architecture of the past. Many 17th and 18th century homes looking to extend often find that a classical orangery fits in wonderfully with their homes.

Of course, one of the other important considerations is to ensure that you are using materials for your new conservatory or orangery extension that are in keeping with the original building. This can be part of the criteria for obtaining permission and in most cases; bricks or stonework must match the original building. This is where it is important to choose a conservatory or orangery company with extensive experience in dealing with extensions for grade listed buildings, as they will make sure any brick or stonework will match.

This may often be a little expensive, but depending on the project and if your building is Grade I or II listed there may be grants available to assist you with the refurbishment, though these are rarely available.

Local Authorities Sometimes you will even see local authorities issue repair notices on buildings that have fallen into disrepair. This is an obligatory repair and means that the building must be repaired at the owner's expense, though as said before grants are available under certain but very rare circumstances.

Generally, there are a number of things you will need to get consent for when making a change to a home and this includes modifying or changing windows, painting over brickwork, adding aerials and satellites, changing the roofing materials and adding or altering staircases and fireplaces. All of these and more are considered to be very important features of the original home and must not be changed or altered in any way at all without prior consent.

One of the best ways to ensure that your home will meet these standards is to use an architect to help you out. They will be aware of the regulations and be able to point you in the correct direction, allowing you preservation and a new extension, whether it is an orangery or otherwise.

Tips For Becoming An Architect   Finding The Right New Home Builders Can Be Challenging   The Importance Of Having House Plans Before You Build   How We Can Be Better Prepared for Cases of Extreme Weather   

3 Things You Must Know Before Building A Granny Flat In Your Backyard

Granny flats are a wonderful addition to any existing property, particularly if you want extra room around the home, somewhere for your kids or folks to live, or an easy investment property. This fully self contained home extension is built on the same plot of land that your main home is and can share the backyard area or you can fence a section off in your yard. If you are thinking of adding this smaller home on your property, it is best to spend some time doing research to avoid some of the common pitfalls. Importantly, there are three things you must know before building a granny flat in your backyard, and the following tips will help you along your way.

1. Can I put one in my backyard?

This is a common question and there is not a lot of information out there that helps you understand what is involved. When building a granny flat you first need to check that you have enough space for the unit to fit in your backyard. Measure up the area you are intending on building, draw a sketch, measure from all the boundaries (fences, pools, house, trees) and mark this down. Although this seems like a complex process, it will make life a lot easier later on when choosing your flat design. Keep in mind too that councils have certain regulations when it comes to building a granny flat, which leads to our next tip.

2. Council Regulations

There are separate building and planning regulations when building a granny flat in your backyard. All councils in Victoria have different regulations as there are different overlays on everyone's property so it is best if you call or visit your own council, you will need to speak with both the building department and planning department. Building departments are more about the structure (the unit needs to meet all building code and Australian Standards) and the positioning of the actual flat is why a building permit is required. The planning department is more about overlays (heritage, wildfire etc) and will issue a planning permit if required. As building permits are a requirement for all granny flats in Melbourne they should automatically have this service in the finish price of your flat, however town planning is not required for all, so this will not be included in the price but the company you go with should also be able to offer this service.

3. Choosing a Company

So you now know that you can start looking for someone to start building a granny flat in your backyard, but who? Start by looking at designs that suit your needs, some companies will let you design your own unit if you cannot find what you are after. When looking at plans, look for simple layouts, the simpler the design the more affordable it will be, make sure you have enough space in the rooms and work through the list to find that it includes everything that you need. You might even consider looking at building a smaller home yourself or find a company that also sells kit granny flats as these will be prefab and will save on cost. When it comes to prices make sure that the building permit, home warranty insurance, plans and specification as well as the unit and installation are all included in your granny flat price.

As you can see there are a few logistics that need to be sorted before you start building a granny flat, however if you bear in mind these three tips then the process should be rather easy. These self contained homes come in many different designs and can be interior decorated any way you like, giving you complete freedom to use whatever colours, finishes and materials you like. Whilst granny flats are well suited to ageing people (parents and grandparents), they are incredibly versatile as a home - whether it's as a teenage retreat, which you can one day rent out and make extra income from, the opportunities are endless.

Tips For Becoming An Architect   Finding The Right New Home Builders Can Be Challenging   The Importance Of Having House Plans Before You Build   How We Can Be Better Prepared for Cases of Extreme Weather