Why hire an architect?
The benefits of hiring an architect may include:
  1. Our knowledge of building materials, new products, how and when to use, them can result in a better building and a way to avoid costly mistakes
  2. The architect is a skilled go-between who stands between you and the builder. In any situation where a lot is at stake, disagreements can lead to tension and conflict. The architect remains informed on all issues and can assist in avoiding disputes with the builder.
How can I justify an architect’s fee?
The architect’s fee can represent real value for money when you consider that:
  1. The architect’s thorough documentation reduces the risk of cost and time over-runs.
  2. By managing the cost of any changes you may require during construction the architect can avoid unnecessary additional payments to the builder.
  3. The architect can assist you in achieving a predictable and secure cash-flow for your project.
  4. It is widely accepted that an architect designed building will fetch a premium price when you sell.
  5. The architect’s fee is reasonable when compared to other costs associated with your property. Compare the cost of an architect providing a full range of services for a fee equal to, say, ten percent of the construction cost. Your architect will probably undertake hundreds of hours of service over many months. Compare this service with that of a real estate agent, for example, who may charge two to three percent of the entire value  of your land and building, A value which is often twice the cost of constructing your building. The real estate agent will typically place an advertisement for your home, attend six forty five minute open days and pass offers on to you. If you compare the magnitude of these commitments with the costs and consider the level of university training your architect must have, your architect’s fee represents a good investment.
Why choose Dunn Architects?
The way we work has many benefits for you:
  1. The process we follow is easy to understand and is tailored to suit your requirements. Wherever practical we will provide a fixed quotation including a range of services from which you may choose. From this quotation you will be well placed to assess what work we will undertake, when it will be done and what the cost of each stage will be to you.
  2. We have adopted what we consider to be the most cost effective and reliable technology to that we can deliver value for money. We use Apple computers for their reliability and efficiency. We have sixteen years experience with this very stable and secure computer system. We have never had a virus yet.
  3. Because we use a three dimensional computer modelling software package, you do not need to be an expert in architectural drawings to understand our designs. We also chose this software (Vectorworks) because it is efficient to use, a saving we can pass on to our clients.
  4. Because we are a team of no more than three to five people we have minimised our administration. As a result you are not paying for extensive middle management.
  5. Because of our earlier experience on large commercial projects we continue to give emphasis to providing  thorough drawings and specifications for builders. This attention to detail minimises uncertainty for the builder, enabling more competitive building price tenders
  6. Our earlier experience in Project and Construction Management enable us to effectively negotiate with builders.
  7. Our designs speak for themselves
Frequently Asked Questions continued ...
Do you know any builders who can construct our project?
  1. Yes, we know many proven builders who may be available for your project. We are regularly approached by other builders who are keen to work on architect designed buildings.
 
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Frequently asked questions