Find an Architect you can trust in Norfolk.

Commercial architects specialise in designing buildings for business or public use, rather than residential, like offices, shops and schools.

Commercial architects will typically have expert knowledge of the unique needs that different types of commercial building have. This includes safety and design requirements for bigger buildings that typically contain high numbers of people.

The key aspect to choosing the right residential architect for your project is communication. Make sure you choose an architect who you can communicate well with – it’s vital that you are able to accurately communicate your requirements for your building.

Yes. Commercial architects can provide a wide range of extra services such as project management, site feasibility studies, and help with site purchase. They can also be a great source of information and advice throughout the design and build process.

Architects design new buildings, and alterations and extensions to existing buildings. They work with their clients to create plans for structures that meet their practical, structural, aesthetic and financial needs.

In some cases, an architect may only create the design and plans for a project. However, they’ll often stay involved in a project after this has been done to ensure its successful completion, providing project management too.

You don’t legally have to hire an architect for your commercial building project. In many cases, property owners liaise directly with a builder to create their extension or new building. This can help to reduce your project cost if you have a limited budget.

However, there are several benefits to hiring an architect that might mean it’s the best option for you.

Firstly, the architect you hire should have up to date knowledge of all the legislation and best practices that your commercial building should comply with, and will have professional indemnity insurance to cover you if they get anything wrong. This will help you make sure that your building is legal and safe, and avoid any expensive rectifying work.

An architect can also help you get the most out of your space. Their specialised experience means they may come up with layouts or solutions that you might not have thought of. If this helps you create a more successful commercial space, you might end up saving or earning more money.

Commercial architects can also take care of your project management. If you have limited time or experience to devote to your building project, an architect can manage it for you. This could be a great way to streamline your project and make sure it’s completed on time.

Not necessarily. Commercial architects may charge either a fixed fee, an hourly rate, or a percentage of the building contract. They could also save you substantial amounts of money as their plans and drawings may stop issues arising later in the construction.

Like building an extension, you’re not legally required to hire an architect to build a house. However, given the amount of money you’ll be investing in your project, it’s vital to get it right. Clear, accurate plans are essential for any builder or other tradesperson to get the right materials in the right place. Building projects that go wrong because of inaccurate plans can at best look odd, and at worst be structurally unsound.

We’d recommend hiring either an architect or a skilled design and build company to create the plans for your new house. If you hire an architect to do your designs, you can choose whether to involve them further in your project, or use another professional or your own skills to take care of any applications and project management.

It’s important to take plenty of time choosing your architect. They can have a significant effect on how successful your project is, so you’ll find it’s worth it in the long run.

Ideally, you’ll want the architect you choose to have plenty of experience in commercial property design and project management. If the building you’re creating or extending is for a particularly unique purpose, you may want to try to find a professional who has worked on a similar property before.

It’s also a good idea to use customer reviews to help you choose a commercial architect. If a company you’re considering doesn’t have any online reviews, ask them to supply you with testimonials or show you examples of their work.

Don’t forget that it’s vital to get on with your architect. You’ll need to communicate effectively to make sure that your project turns out the way you want it to, and you may be working together for a while. So, it’s a good idea to meet and speak with any commercial architects you’re considering before you go ahead and hire one.