Architectural design consultant v Architect

Lsleo

Hi, we are currently sale agreed on a bungalow and plan to renovate once it is all sorted with a small extension of the kitchen and attic conversion. We have seen a Civil engineer company whose work we like and are advertised as architectural design consultants..however we are a little confused if this is ok for the type of work we plan or if we require an architect. We will need them to draw plans, apply for planning permission and help oversee works if this is what is done. We are very new to this so any advice would be great thanks, especially derailing the difference between both services.

PaperArchitect

LSLEO - the title of Architect is protected since 2007 in Ireland, therefore anyone not trained as an architect find alternative ways of advertising architectural services. They will be able to draw plans, apply for planning permission, and if they are registered as assigned certifiers, then also able to oversee the work. Architects do all of the above also but are trained to think spatially. Renovating and extending is a big job, and will affect you for the rest of your life. I find it disappointing that more people don't seek out architects to work on their home when it will provide a much better environment for them in the future. You should compare fees with the Civil Engineering firm and a number of architects you like the work of. Don't jump into anything, you will probably spend the rest of your life in this home.

Gumbo

Its also worth noting that a lot of Architectural Technologists advertise as Architectural Designers simply because they cannot use the word Architect. These Technologists would be more qualified with meeting building regulations and/or current construction technologies in my opinion.