The Role of an Architectural Designer in Obtaining Planning Permission

You need planning permission if you want to build or change a building. It is permission from the local council to make sure your work is safe and follows the rules. An architectural designer is the individual who assists you in obtaining this permission. We will talk about what an architectural designer does and why they are needed while getting planning permission in this blog.

What is Planning Permission?

Planning permission is a permit provided by your council or local authority. You must have this permission before you can develop or alter something on a property. If you build without planning permission, you might have to remove it or pay a fine. Planning permission makes sure your building is safe and looks right in the area.

You need it for things like building a new house, adding a room, or making big changes to your home. The idea is to ensure that the project is beneficial to the area and its residents.

Why is an Architectural Designer Necessary for Planning Permission?

An architectural designer is a person who assists you in designing your building or redesigning work. He knows the planning permission rules and regulations and assists you in complying with them. They also assist in making your design suitable for the place and ensuring it is safe.

They will design something that will suit your requirements, but ensure that they make it compliant with the laws of the area. This ensures that they increase the likelihood of your planning application being passed on time.

What Does an Architectural Designer Do?

An architectural designer does so much essential stuff in helping you to get planning permission. Below are the essential things that they do:

1. Knowledge of Local Regulations

   Every area has different rules as to what can and cannot be built. These may define the size of the building, the material to be used, or the look of the building. All of these rules are known to an architectural designer. They make your design adhere to the local rules so that your project can be approved.

   This is a crucial process since if the design is not as per the rules, the council may reject your planning application.

2. Designing the Building

   Once the architectural designer has mastered the rules, the designer starts creating your building. The designer will make drawings and plans that specify what your building will look like. They make sure your design suits your needs and follows local rules.

   For example, if you build a house in an area with old-style homes, the designer will make sure it looks similar.. They will use materials and designs that are compatible with the neighborhood.

3. Preparing and Submitting the Application

   Once the design is completed, the planning application will be made up by the architectural designer. These are the official documents you submit to the local council requesting them to permit you to plan. The designer will ensure all required documents and drawings are part of the application.

   The designer will also double-check that everything is in order and concise. This prevents delay or rejection of the application.

4. Contacting the Council

   After your planning application is submitted, the council may object or request alterations. Your designer will do this for you. They respond to any questions and can give further information if necessary.

   This is necessary because the council could request further information or suggest alterations. Your designer does everything for you, so it becomes simple.

5. Dealing with Objections

   Neighbours or residents may be less than thrilled about your project. They may protest that it will be trouble, for instance, obstructing their view or being too large. If this is the situation, the architectural designer can find a solution.

   They will negotiate with the people who are against your project, present your design, and attempt to answer their concerns. If need be, the designer can adjust the design so that it is more acceptable to all. In this manner, the project goes on advancing.

6. Getting Approvals

   After your planning application has been granted permission, it is then your turn to build. The architect designer will walk you through the next steps, like getting building permits and managing contractors, to ensure that the construction gets underway. The designer remains engaged in ensuring that all goes well according to plan.

Why You Need an Architectural Designer for Planning Permission

Obtaining planning permission is not easy. Without having an architectural designer, you might find it difficult to be aware of all the rules and legislation that you need to adhere to. If you do get something wrong, your application might be delayed or even refused.

There are a few reasons why you need to have an architectural designer:

• They Know the Rules – The designers are aware of the rules that will be effective for your project. They ensure that your project complies with the local legislation.

• They make the process Easier – The designer completes the planning application and handles the council. This simplifies the process for you.

• They Save Time and Money – By keeping your application correct and complete, the designer does not experience delays or errors. Time and money are both saved.

• They Improve Your Design – An architectural designer assists in improving your project. The designer employs their skill to not only make your design appear aesthetically pleasing but also functional.

• They Provide You with Peace of Mind – You know that a designer is handling the planning process, and so you can think about something else. You will not be bothered with dealing with the council or taking care of the regulations.

How to Select the Most Appropriate Architectural Designer

Selecting the most suitable architectural designer is crucial to your project. The following are some tips to select the best designer:

• Seek Experience - Select a designer who has worked on similar projects. If you are constructing a house, select one with experience in house projects.

• See Their Work - Request them to show you some of their previous work. This will give you details on the designer’s style and quality.

• Request Reviews - Search online for reviews or request recommendations from previous customers. This will inform you of what others perceive about the designer.

• Good Communication - A good communicator will hear your thoughts and translate ideas. This will ensure that the project runs well.

• Local Awareness - Ensure that the designer is aware of the planning rules for your location. They should know the local planning policy.

Conclusion

An architectural designer is quite helpful if you require planning permission. They assist you in designing a product that will be compliant according to local regulations, arrange your planning application, and liaise with the council to ensure all is okay. With their assistance, your project is less likely to be rejected without issue.

At HoumTree Design, we have specialist architectural designers who are able to assist you with your planning application. We escort you through the process to guarantee your project’s success. If you require assistance with planning permission, call us today!