FAQs
These are the most common questions that people ask. Click/tap any question below for our response. If your question isn’t here or you need further information, please feel free to contact me .
Are you just a one man band?
I prefer the term “Sole Practitioner”, but yes the practice is just me, Ian Shirvell. I have worked for many of the larger architects practices in and around Oxford both employed and on a contractual basis. I have acquired a wealth of knowledge over the last 25 years which is the root of my architectural practice. See my about page for more details of my professional experience.
As a sole Practitioner you always get me, I am the single and only point of contact.
Whilst I do work alone, I am a CIAT central regional committee member enabling a practice support network for like-minded professionals. As a CIAT member I am bound by a code of conduct and professionalism.
To offer a full Architectural service I work with carefully selected professionals for my projects such Planning Consultants, Structural Engineers, Approved Inspector, SAP Accessors, Party wall surveyors.
Why should I choose you?
Well I’m pretty good at my job! Where appropriate I always try to think out of the box and come up with fresh ideas, I’m always frank and honest with my clients, keep a good dialog and work as efficiently as I can within clear structured fees. With my drawing packages I aim to be as clear and concise as possible “leaving no stone unturned” breaking down complex details.
As a sole Practitioner you always get me, I am the single and only point of contact.
How much are your fees?
Hourly rate – is applied to suit the complexity and scope of your project to an agreed number of hours.
Hourly rate is typically used where the scope or value of the work is uncertain, or a part services is required, such as you may just want a feasibility service to explore options, or maybe only require Planning or Building Regulations drawings.
Fixed Fees - is based on a percentage of an estimated build cost and is usually between 8 – 12% for a full architectural service depending on the size and complexity of the project.
(Residential build costs are approximately calculated at £3000 per m2 (as of 9/2/23) + approx. figures for high-cost items such as kitchens and bathrooms etc)
Our fees exclude VAT and expenses, such as travelling and printing.
Fees are broken down into our workstages as follows,
1. Initial consultation
3. Survey and initial design
5. Planning application
35% fee
6. Building regulations & detailed design 35% fee
7. Project Management 35% fee
How do your fees compare with other practices?
I always aim to offer my clients the best value for money by clear fixed fees based on time calculations and experience of similar projects.
At the moment I am not VAT registered.
How do I decide who to employ as my architect?
This is an important decision to make whatever the size or scale of your project. We’ve written a short guide to help you make the right choice. Our Guide to choosing an architect has thoughts and ideas of what to look for when choosing an architecture partner.
Are you a member of any professional bodies?
How do you manage all these projects when it’s just you?
Simple - I only take on a few projects at a time as I feel it is important to give my projects and clients my full attention.
What does an Architectural Technologist do?
Architectural Technologists have a professional body – Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). Chartered Architectural Technologist, MCIAT members, in particular, have undergone rigorous professional training and can offer and deliver ‘the full range of architectural services’ akin to that of an architect. The CIAT website explains what MCIAT members such as myself are qualified to do.
So, what’s the difference between Architects and Architectural Technologists?
Technologists have often had more experience and training in the science and technology of building, e.g. how and why they are constructed in a certain way, using certain materials, than Architects. Architects are typically more ‘design led’ with greater interest, in the art, aesthetics, and spatial qualities of a project.
However, there are certainly many Architects who are highly technical in their approach and many Architectural Technologist who are very creative, so individuals should be considered on their own merit.
Are you insured?
To provide peace of mind to all our clients, ORA Design carries Professional Indemnity Insurance, details of which are available upon request.
Will you deal with the planning authorities for me?
Yes, I can submit applications to the planning authorities and conduct negotiations with them on your behalf to help maximise the chances of full planning approval for your project.
Can you provide a cost estimate for my project?
Yes I can provide guidance on approximate build costs.
How long will my project take to complete?
This depends on many factors and will vary according to the complexity and size of the project. I can plan your project build programme.
Broadly speaking, Statutory approvals can take up to 6 months. The construction phase will depend on the availability of the builders. A typical house extension may take 3 months depending, of course, on the size of the project.
