Determining the type of architect you need is the first step in finding an architect for your upcoming project.

Various kinds of architects have their areas of expertise, such as residential architects for those redesigning a home, creating a loft conversion or adding a kitchen extension.

At My-architect, we have a team of residential designers with ample experience designing loft conversions and kitchen extensions, which can provide you with the guidance and expertise you need for your project.

Once you know what you're looking for, some of the most helpful places to find an architect are online forums, search engines, local magazines or even coffee shops for recommended architects near you.

Although it's optional, finding a local architect with expertise in your project type, whether a loft conversion or home extension, will give your project the best chance of success.

At My-architect, we've assembled a team of residential architects with local knowledge across all the London boroughs. We'd love to hear from you if you have a project in mind and want some friendly advice or help getting started.

Another way to find architects in London is to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have worked with an architect in the past.

Word-of-mouth referrals can be a great way to find an architect who is reliable and has a track record of producing high-quality work.

If you're having trouble finding an architect in London, you can also consider reaching out to professional organisations or architectural societies.

These organisations often have directories or lists of member architects that you can use to find an architect who meets your needs.

The RIBA and ARB are the obvious go-to directories for finding qualified architects in London.

No matter where you find your architect, be sure to do your due diligence and research their qualifications and experience before hiring them.

You'll want to work with an architect who is licensed and has the skills and knowledge necessary to help you achieve your vision for your home or building project.

At My-architect we have assembled a team of architectural designers and construction professionals to offer a range of services including design development, planning and building regulations submissions, and project management, all tailored to meet the specific needs of residents living in London.

From initial concept to final construction, our team will work closely with you to bring your vision to life, we are regulated by the RIBA and ARB and have experience covering all the London boroughs.

Securing the services of a residential architect in London that aligns with your project requirements is crucial to its success.

What determines success varies significantly among homeowners, encompassing aspects such as design quality, project cost, timescale, process efficiency, professional conduct, and overall satisfaction with the journey.

Your position on this spectrum will inform the type of architectural service best suited for your needs.

In general architectural services in London can be classified into two broad categories: expensive design-led architecture or budget-friendly drafting and online services. Both have their respective merits and limitations, as described in the next section.

For clients with substantial budgets, complex and ambitious design goals, and projects exceeding £300k, most Clients choose a traditional, design-led architectural service.

Design-led architectural firms in London are typically registered with professional organisations such as RIBA and ARB and provide comprehensive support throughout the project lifecycle, including project management and liaison with other relevant professionals such as structural engineers and party wall surveyors.

For this level of service, clients can expect to spend 10-20% of the overall construction budget on architectural services.

On the other hand, drafting companies or online architectural services in London are geared towards clients with simple projects, limited budgets, or tight timelines.

While they may lack formal architectural qualifications, they can produce simple planning and building control drawings that meet legal requirements for most extension and renovation projects in London and the UK. This option is best suited for homeowners on very tight budgets, not very high design aspirations and/or a project that does not entail complex planning considerations like conservation areas or listed building consent.

However, drafting companies typically provide minimal design services and limited support post-drawing delivery.

At My-architect, we offer a third option that bridges the gap between cost-effective design-led architectural services.

To learn more about our unique offering, please refer to our detailed profile or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced team members.