Frequently Asked Questions
Planning an extension or renovation can raise many questions. These frequently asked questions explain how I work, when to appoint an architect and what you can expect during the design and construction of your project.
If you have an upcoming project you would like to discuss then please feel free to reach out to us using the details provided on our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Working with Raf Zora Architects
I like to be involved in projects from the very first discussions to the moment it is handed to you on completion of construction as this ensures a high level of design and construction quality, and it is how I add the most value. In addition, It is always pleasing to witness those first conversations and sketch designs come to fruition.
Whilst not every project requires a full suite of design services, I am typically able to offer the following services:
- Concept design options
- Detailed design
- Interior design, including finishes, fixed fittings and sanitaryware
- Joinery and kitchen design concept and drawings
- 3D visualisations
- Construction drawings and specifications
- Planning applications
- Building Control applications
- Construction monitoring
I am happy to tailor my fee to match the design service you need. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss any upcoming projects via our contact page.
An architect adds value by turning your budget and aspirations into a thoughtful, well-resolved and beautiful home that makes the best use of the space and opportunities available.
In the UK, architects are qualified professionals regulated by the Architects Registration Board and expected act with honesty and to meet standards of competence, professionalism and conduct.
It is helpful to appoint an architect at the very beginning of your project, ideally before making firm decisions about layout, budget or planning.
Early involvement allows me to understand how you live, explore the potential of your property and help establish a clear brief, realistic scope and coordinated route through design, approvals and construction.
A useful brief begins with how you live and what you would like your home to do better. What activities, routines or lifestyle would you like your home to support? Think about your current and future needs, which spaces or relationships need improving, and your priorities for light, storage, materials, sustainability and access to the garden.
It is often helpful to establish an overall budget, but your brief does not need to be fully resolved before approaching an architect.
Not every extension requires a full planning application, as some work may be possible under permitted development rights. This depends on factors including the type of property, the size and position of the proposal, previous alterations and any local restrictions the council may have in place.
As part of my appointment, I can review your property and advise on the most appropriate planning route before preparing and submitting the necessary drawings and application.
The programme depends on the scale and complexity of the project, the decisions required and the type of approvals involved.
At the outset, I will outline the key stages and develop a project programme, allowing sufficient time to explore the design properly, coordinate other consultants and prepare the information needed for planning, Building Regulations and construction.
The key design and construction stages are explained on this page under the heading "FAQ: The Design Process."
Yes. Most extensions and significant structural alterations require input from a structural engineer. I can help identify a suitably experienced engineer, obtain proposals where appropriate and coordinate their structural design with the architectural design.
Depending on the nature of the project, you may need input from a structural engineer, party wall surveyor, building control professional or approved inspector.
A quantity surveyor, energy consultant, arboriculturist or other specialist may be needed depending on the complexity and context of the project.
I can advise which consultants are likely to be required and at which stage they would need to be appointed. Furthermore, I will help you in attaining and comparing their quotations and will coordinate their information with the architectural design.
Yes, I can remain involved during construction to review progress, respond to design queries and help administer the building contract. Regular site visits and communication with the contractor ensure the design is constructed as intended, and to clarify issues as they arise and keep you informed throughout the build.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Design Process
The beginning of the project will be a period in which we collaboratively develop the brief based on the conversations I have with you about your ambitions and a site visit to better understand the property.
Once we have understood your needs I will produce sketch floor plan options that interpret your brief in different ways. These options will give you the ability to consider which proposal best suits your aspirations before proceeding to the next design stage.
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Once I have confirmation of your chosen design concept we progress into the next design stage. Here more detailed drawing information is produced, and key external materials are discussed and chosen. These decisions will inform the Planning Application.
Once the design is sufficiently detailed a drawing package and the necessary documents will be prepared for submission to the Local Authority for planning approval.
The Technical Design stage will be developed in conjunction with the necessary consultant team. This process produces the construction information and provides a high level of detail for you and the tendering contractors.
I will meet with you to discuss finishes, glazing, fittings options and advise on functionality and appearance to ensure that the spaces feel visually curated and practical.
The information collated at the culmination of this design stage will typically take the form of construction drawings and specification documents, where all the above will be clearly itemised for you and to enable accurate pricing by the tendering contractors.
I can assist you in finding suitable contractors to tender the work to. Once the list of contractors is agreed the information will be sent to obtain a price for the work.
During the tendering process you will typically be able to meet the contractors and receive a tender return (quote) from them for the work you wish to carry out.
I will be able to assist you in evaluating the contractors’ tender returns to inform your decision for your chosen contractor.
The construction phase is the period where all the hard work, discussions and decisions made in the previous stages start to take shape. I will be able to assist you in monitoring the work and reporting any issues to you and the contractor, and to assist with any queries that may arise during the construction process.
I like to be involved in projects from the very first discussions to the moment it is handed to you on completion of construction as this ensures a high level of design and construction quality, and as it is always pleasing to see the design come to fruition.
With that said, I understand that your needs may not require us to be involved at all stages, or may not require certain aspects of our design service.
I am happy to tailor our fee to match the design service you need. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss any upcoming projects via our contact page.