What to do before meeting an architect
Choosing an architect is an exciting milestone for your building project
But before you sit down together, it’s worth doing some preparation. You don't need to have every detail figured out; that's what your architect and builder will help you with. However, having a clear idea of what you want, what you need and what you can afford will make those early conversations much more productive.
If you're planning a new build in Wellington, here's a checklist to help you prepare before meeting an architect.
1. Be clear on your project goals
Start with the big picture. What are you hoping to achieve with your new home? Think about:
Why are you building rather than buying an existing home?
What isn't working in your current home?
How do you want your new home to feel?
How will you use the house day to day?
Do you need space for a growing family?
Do you work from home?
Do you love entertaining?
Do you want strong indoor-outdoor flow?
Are you planning to stay in the home for many years?
It can be tempting to jump straight into floor plans and finishes, but understanding how you want to live in the home is more important at this stage.
2. Separate must-haves from nice-to-haves
Your wish list is probably be longer than your budget allows, so it's useful to set some priorities.
Must-haves
Things you don't want to compromise on. This might include the number of bedrooms, a home office, an ensuite, a double garage or a particular orientation.
Nice-to-haves
Features you'd love to include if the budget and design allow, such as a scullery, second living area, walk-in wardrobe or outdoor kitchen.
Future considerations
Things you may not need immediately but could become important later, such as additional bedrooms, accessible living, space for teenagers or the ability to work from home.
This gives your architect an understanding of where you are prepared to compromise and where you're not.
3. Have a realistic budget
You don't need to know exactly what your new home will cost before meeting an architect, but you should have a realistic budget in mind.
Think beyond the construction cost and consider expenses such as:
Architectural and design fees
Engineering
Council fees and consents
Site preparation and foundations
Construction
Kitchen and bathroom specifications
Heating and ventilation
Flooring and window coverings
Driveway and landscaping
Fencing
Professional and other project costs
Be honest about your budget with your architect and builder. Knowing your budget from the beginning helps the design team make appropriate decisions rather than developing a plan that looks fantastic but is unrealistic to build.
4. Think about your timeline
Consider if you need the house completed by a certain date. Perhaps you're selling your existing home, have a growing family or simply want to move in before a particular time.
Your architect can help you understand how long the design and consenting stages might take, while your builder can provide valuable input into the construction timeframe.
5. Gather inspiration
Help your architect understand your vision by collecting images and samples that reflect your style and the elements you’re drawn to. Pinterest, Instagram, magazines and property websites are all great sources of inspiration. Save examples of:
Exterior styles
Floor plans
Kitchens
Living spaces
Lighting
Windows and doors
Cladding
Landscaping
Colours and materials
Indoor-outdoor living areas
Don't worry if your ideas don't seem to fit together. Your architect can help identify common elements and turn them into a cohesive design.
6. Assemble important documents
Bringing relevant information about your property to your first meeting can save time. Depending on your project, this could include:
Property title
Site or survey plan
Existing house plans
LIM report
Geotechnical or soil information
Council information
Existing photographs
Information about easements or covenants
Any previous reports relating to the property
Your architect will be able to tell you what else they need, but having the basics ready will help them understand the opportunities and constraints of your site.
7. Think about your site
Your section will have a major influence on the design of your home. Consider:
Where does the sun come from?
Where are the best views?
Which direction does the prevailing wind come from?
Is the section sloping?
How will you access the site?
Where are neighbouring houses positioned?
Where do you need privacy?
How will vehicles access the property?
Where would you ideally like your outdoor living areas?
These considerations are particularly important when building in Wellington, where topography, wind, views and site access can all influence the design and construction of a new home.
8. Consider the builder
While you may think you need finalised plans before approaching a builder, bringing them in early in the design process can be really valuable. An experienced builder can provide practical input on buildability, materials, construction methods, site challenges and potential cost implications while there is still flexibility to make changes.
Peaky Builders work closely with Wellington architects and can recommend an architect who is suited to your type of project. Whether you're planning a family home, an architectural new build or a home on a challenging Wellington site, we can help connect you with the right design professional.
A Peaky Builders site consultation is a valuable investment. One of our Directors will visit your property, evaluate the scope of your project and identify potential issues. Our expert consultations include a professional estimate, land/build consult, discussion around your project ideas and potential cost saving options.
Checklist for a first meeting with an architect
Before meeting an architect, make sure you've thought about:
Project goals: What do you want your new home to achieve?
Must-haves: What features are non-negotiable?
Nice-to-haves: What would you include if the budget allows?
Future needs: How might your lifestyle change?
Budget: What can you realistically afford?
Timeline: When would you ideally like to move in?
Inspiration: What styles, spaces and features do you like?
Property information: What documents and reports do you have?
Site: What opportunities and challenges does your section present?
Builder: Who will build your home and can they be involved early?
You don't need to arrive at your first meeting with an architect with all the answers. The purpose of the early design process is to work through the possibilities and develop a home that suits your site, lifestyle and budget.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose an architect?
Look for an architect who has experience with the type of home you want to build and understands your site and requirements. It's also important that you feel comfortable communicating with them, as you'll be working closely together throughout the design process. Peaky Builders can recommend an architect suited to your project.
What should I bring to my first meeting with an architect?
Bring anything that will help your architect understand your project, including your wish list, budget, timeline and inspiration. It's also useful to provide property documents such as your site plan, title, LIM and any existing plans or reports. Don't worry if you don't have everything yet. Your architect can advise you on what information is needed as the project progresses.
Do I need building plans before contacting a builder?
No. In fact, it can be helpful to involve a builder before your plans are finalised. An experienced builder can provide practical advice on construction methods, materials, buildability and potential costs while there is still flexibility to make changes. Peaky Builders can work alongside your architect from the early design stages to help develop a practical design that works with your budget.
