Navigating the Design Process - an architecture firms role in building your new home

Chris McIvor
Apr 5
5 min read

Building a new home is an exciting adventure, full of possibilities and decisions. With so many choices, it's easy to feel lost. You may wonder whether hiring an architecture firm is necessary and what the design process actually entails. This post will clear up any confusion, guiding you through the vital steps of the design process and highlighting how an architecture firm can turn your dream home into a reality.

Understanding the Role of an Architecture Firm

Architecture firms do more than create beautiful buildings; they solve problems and blend artistry with practicality. Their role is to craft a vision that reflects your needs, preferences, and budget. For instance, if your dream home is a cozy cottage or a sleek modern design, an architecture firm can help you with both the artistic and structural aspects.

They can also navigate tricky Planning and Building Control Approvals/Regulations. This expertise ensures that your project stands the test of time while meeting safety and design standards.

Importantly, working with an architecture firm provides access to their wealth of knowledge. For example, they can suggest innovative solutions like maximising natural light through window placement or using space-efficient designs that enhance your living experience.

Do You Really Need an Architecture firm?

Building a home without the help of an architecture firm is possible, but consider the following advantages that might tip the scales in favor of hiring one:

Expertise in Design and Functionality: An architecture firm understands how to create spaces that work well on a daily basis. For example, they can recommend a kitchen layout that improves workflow, resulting in a space that feels more functional. Studies show that effective kitchen design can increase a home's resale value by as much as 10%.
Navigating Regulations: Building Control Approvals and Regulations can be a maze. An architecture firm, familiar with local requirements, can help you avoid costly mistakes and project delays. In some areas, mishandling approvals can add months to your construction timeline, and expenses may rise by 20% or more.
Collaboration with Contractors: An architecture firm serves as a vital link between you and the construction team. Their detailed plans can minimise misunderstandings, leading to a smoother building process and potentially cutting costs by up to 15%.
Sustainable Design: If eco-friendliness is a priority, an architecture firm can incorporate sustainable practices and materials into your home. For example, energy-efficient designs can reduce utility bills by about 30%, up to 80% if it’s a Passive house design, making your home more economical in the long run.

Ultimately, determining whether you need an architecture firm depends on your needs, budget, and the complexity of your project. Even if you choose not to hire one, understanding their advantages will help you make an informed decision.

The Design Process: What to Expect with iMAC architecture

Once you've engaged the likes of us at iMAC architecture, the design process typically unfolds in several stages. Here's what you can expect from iMAC architecture:

Stage 1- Pre- Design Services/ Feasibility
This stage involves the identification of your requirements and gathering of appropriate information to enable subsequent phases of the design work to be undertaken.
Stage 2- Concept Design
This stage involves the preparation of design ideas that address your brief and relevant local authority requirements, usually 2D drawings and something 3D plans with photo realistic renders to you get the vision.
Stage 3- Design Development/ Developed Design
This stage involves developing the design to a level that will adequately explain the design, incorporating and final amendments to layouts and allow for submission to the relevant local authorities for planning consent.
Stage 4a- Construction Documents/ Technical Design
This stage involves the preparation of drawings and specifications to allow the project to go out to tender/bid and tells the contractor all the information he needs to actually build your dream.

At iMAC architecture we also offer the following additional stages if you decide to go with our Full Package option:
Stage 4b- Technical Design (Lighting & Interior Design)
This stage involves the preparation of drawings and specifications for lighting layouts like task and ambient along with exact plug and socket locations so everything is well coordinated before things get to site, this stages will allow the project to go out to tender/bid so you get a much more accurate price up front.
Stage 5a- Procurement/ Tender

This stage involves a range of contract and administration procedures to identify and evaluate potential contractors and/or specialists for the construction of the project.

Stage 5b- Construction Administration and Observation/ Construction
This stage involves the administration of the building contract up to and including practical completion - a separate blog will follow discussing the complexities of this stage and how having a professional oversee the project can reduce your stress levels and possibly save you additional costs.
Stage 6- Handover & Close Out
This stage involves the administration of the building contract up to and including practical completion incorporating detailed snagging and inspections so you have confidence that the building you are paying for is up to standard and off the highest quality.
Stage 7- Post Construction Services
This stage involves reviewing the work after completion for any omissions and/or defective work or materials.

The Benefits of Collaborating with Your Architecture Firm

As you work through the design process, clear communication with your architecture firm is essential. Here are a couple of strategies to maximise your collaboration:

Be Open and Clear: Voice your ideas, questions, and concerns upfront. This clarity helps the architecture firm understand your vision better, allowing for a more tailored design.
Set Realistic Expectations: Good design takes time. Stay flexible with timelines, understanding that a thoughtful approach can yield impressive results.

By remaining engaged in the process, you are more likely to have a home that reflects your vision and meets your needs.

Finding Clarity in Your Decision

Deciding to hire an architecture firm for your new home is a significant choice that can impact how satisfying your building experience will be. Even if it's not mandatory, the expertise an architecture firm brings can lead to a home that is more functional, beautiful, and compliant with regulations.

Recognising the various stages of the design process will empower you to collaborate effectively with your architecture firm. This approach ensures that your dreams transition into reality.

Embarking on this path may seem overwhelming, but with proper guidance and insight into the design process, building your ideal home can transform into a rewarding journey you’ll cherish for years to come.