Have you ever wondered if contracting a professional architect when building a new home or making additions to your existing property is worth the investment? A study by The Modern House shows that a home that is well-designed can increase the sales price by 12%.
The study reveals that design is a differentiator for home buyers and they are prepared to pay more for a home that has a pleasing aesthetic look and feel and that accentuates their lifestyle. So yes, good design does command a higher premium.
Consumers are searching for tangible experiences and this spills over into their home space. Not everyone has a good eye for spatial design so if they’re buying a home that has had the oversight of an architect, they are almost guaranteed to get a well-designed space. Most people don’t know where to start and what will look good, so if they walk into a show house with a strong aesthetic and spatial appeal, they’ll want it. The benefit is that the buyer doesn’t have to worry about doing it themselves and risking that the end product is not quite what they had in mind.
Architecturally designed homes are most apparent in the high-end market, such as properties in London and in estates. It starts with one property owner and quickly becomes a trend, with others in the area also employing the services of a professional architect. Part of it is keeping up with the trendsetters, another is the fact that a well-thought-out and beautifully planned home significantly adds to how space is maximised and utilised. This then creates an overall sense of comfort and visual appeal.
Tailor-made
According to the study, the benefit of using an architect far outweighs the upfront investment. An architect not only presents options that are tailor-made to your taste and requirements but also ensures a cost-effective project. An architect is knowledgeable on the best and most cost-efficient products available on the market and knows how to plan within budget to ensure that the client gets the best value for money without skimping on quality fittings.
Regulations & Planning Approval
An architect will also make sure that planning approval and building regulations with the respective authorities is a seamless process and includes getting the required compliance certificates. It takes time, money and effort to get compliance certificates and approval but it is well worth it down the line. Rather ensure that your home fits with the regulations instead of having water damage problems in years to come, for example.
Smart design
Architects also understand how smart design can save you money, and as a result, increase the value of your home. Passive daylighting design can make significant savings on your electricity costs. You shouldn’t have to switch on the lights during the day to enjoy your space. This is where passive lighting system principles come into the picture. For example, a creeper planted in front of a window will prevent too much heat from entering an area, whilst in winter the leaves fall and allow more sunlight through.
Healthy house
A healthy house means healthy inhabitants. A professional can help you design a home that considers both the health of the environment and the building. Ventilation is extremely important. A house needs to act as a great big lung, so air needs to flow comfortably through it to ensure a constant circulation of clean air. The healthier the house, the healthier you are and the more you’ll get out of your investment.
Building is a big investment, so it’s important to get the best value you can. Using an architect may seem like a luxury, but it can maximise your budget and open up new possibilities. Furthermore, you are guaranteed that the lifestyle experience of the space, as well as the sales price, will only increase. If you’re considering a renovation, making an addition or building a brand new home, getting a good architect and interior designer from the start will pay dividends later.
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