Do I need an architect for my renovation?

A renovation for your home or office, no matter how small, should never be underestimated in terms of complexity – there are many more moving parts than most realise, from design, to flow, and structural considerations. 

According to the 2023 Houzz & Home Study for Australia, finding the right service providers for a home renovation project was the biggest challenge faced by homeowners (38% of respondents). Architects, in particular, have differing levels of expertise from building designers and draftsmen. So, do you need an architect for a home renovation?

A renovation project can involve complex extension, structural overhaul, and heritage homes will need an architect’s expertise. Even if your renovation plans do not fall into these categories, you should still consider the value of working with an architect when you’re planning a home renovation.

When do you need an architect for a renovation?

Major renovation work

Altering the existing structure of a property or adding new spaces via extensions will require working with an architect to ensure the outcome is sound in terms of building safety and design.  

What many homeowners fail to realise is that every part of the home is structurally and functionally connected – extensive renovation work on one section of the home, such as the kitchen, can still have an impact on the rest of the building. 

An architect will be able to identify load-bearing walls and plan the renovation work around these foundations – if the walls are to be removed, architectural design will need to accommodate by designing around new load-bearing structures.

Renovation of heritage properties

Working with an architect to renovate a heritage property is non-negotiable and the architect must also specialise in heritage architecture. Heritage houses hold historical value, and are governed by stringent guidelines set by the local council or state heritage body concerning everything from window types to building materials, facades, and general style. The same guidelines apply to properties in a Heritage Conservation Area, such as a terrace renovation in Sydney.

A heritage architect is best suited to understand the complexities involved with renovating the home, to balance modern living elements with the historical value and architecture of the home. For listed properties, a heritage architect will also know what alterations will likely be approved and how to best approach the building application to obtain approval.

Many heritage homes also feature older methods of construction, ageing materials, and non-uniform proportions – all of which present greater complications that can only be addressed by an architect.

Additional support that architects provide for renovations

Budgeting

Architects draw on years of experience within the construction industry to provide clients with a realistic budget for the renovation. 
Beyond the initial quote, an architect can also provide advice on how much to include for council fees, building safety reports, and unexpected expenses that may pop up during construction. We cover more about this in our renovation planning guide.

Legal compliance

Renovating a home involves meeting building certifications and obtaining approval from the local council and Building Certifiers – architects can handle all of the required documentation to simplify the legal aspects of the renovation project for homeowners. 

This is especially important for heritage homeowners who are legally obligated to meet state and council heritage building rules and standards. 

Being unclear about the requirements for obtaining building approval or meeting heritage requirements will result in repeated costly delays for the renovation. Avoid this risk by working with an architect.

Project management and timeline

Architects help to coordinate all renovation work from demolition to electrical and plumbing, ensure that the final outcome accurately reflects the planned design, and work to keep the project moving according to the timeline. 

Project management is critical for complex renovation projects with multiple dependent stages, like with a home extension or restoration work for part of a heritage home.

Property value

Architects deliver work that is above and beyond cookie-cutter designs. Having a well-thought-out and designed renovation result increase the property’s value, maximising the return on investment for homeowners.

Can’t I use a building designer for a renovation?

This is a valid point that many homeowners raise. Building designers can help with planning and executing a renovation, but usually for a smaller-scale project like a kitchen or bathroom layout redesign. Using a building designer for a heritage renovation is out of the question – they do not have the requisite qualifications to do so. 

Alongside the many differences between a building designer and an architect, an architect will be better prepared to achieve a renovation outcome that fits your vision. 

If your renovation is complex enough to consider working with an architect, it will likely need one. There’s a good chance that you are underestimating the design work and considerations needed to make your renovation a reality, which is why consulting with an architect early on during the planning process is the best decision you can make. 

Crush Architecture is a Sydney-based architectural firm specialising in sustainable design and heritage home retrofits. As heritage architects with extensive experience in renovations, we can help you bring your vision to life, whether it’s a home extension or a complete overhaul. Book a consultation with our team to find out how we can help.