Working with Architects: Why we do not suggest last minute changes.
When designing your dream space, it is possible to feel uncertain about many of the decisions you will have to take, from the set up of the space, to the type of kitchen, to even the selection of materials. It is even possible for you to have a complete change of heart in the middle of the process. Last minute changes may be often but not always beneficial.
While understandable, you can imagine that restarting from scratch in the middle of the process, or – to a less dramatic extent -, many changes during the process, can cause problems, and a considerable waste of time, money and energy.
Keeping that in mind, it becomes clear that the best course of action would be to take your time in the design phase and think your options over before making decisions and proceeding.
Here is how to avoid a messy process full of potentially costly changes
1. Choose an architect that can challenge and elevate your ideas, and show you what else is possible before deciding. Let your architect widen your horizon, so when you do make a decision, it is an informed decision after enough ‘window shopping’, and not the first thing that came to your mind.
Image Source: Planradar.com
2. Give the architect enough time to not only develop the design, but also sleep on it. Good design takes time to mature. Architects need time to think, design and draw. Equally important is the time during which the architect may not be working on the design directly but actually, thinking about it in the back of their mind. The cooking time, the marinating time.
3. Use samples, mock-ups and visualisations before deciding.
If you are interested in samples check out our piece on their major importance to get some great ideas!
4. Keep the communication open with your architect. Feel free to stop them and ask whenever you feel lost in the process, or need a different type of visuals to help you understand the design they are proposing.
5. A home is a living ecosystem. Consider building into the design the flexibility for future changes. Ask your architect to help you future proof your house.
6. If you find yourself wanting to change things in the middle of the process, remember to check if any interdependent item of the design will also be affected. Will this change affect another part of the design? Will it have cost consequences? Have any interdependent items already been ordered? Paid for? Once you are aware of the consequences of a change, you can decide better if the change is worth it.
If you are renovating or building your house or just refreshing your interiors, get in touch with us. We would be happy to help with any questions you may have.
