If you are thinking of doing a house extension, a new build, or a loft conversion, your plans should be based on a set of well-structured architectural floor plans.
With the blueprints, you can visualise your project before you even start working on it to bring out your plans into reality. A basic concept package is a worthwhile investment when you are thinking of remodelling or even buying a new home. It helps you better understand the potential your investment holds when you think of selling it in the future.
If you are sure that you will be doing a new build or upgrades in the next three or so years, then you should have some design plans. You must also make the necessary arrangements for the required development certificates and permits. Most of the home renovations will need the following kinds of construction drawings when submitting your request for the requisite certificates and licenses.
1. Existing Floor Plans
They must be accurate drawings of the building’s structure – how it will look once it is fully constructed. The architect you request to draw the floor plans might want to hire someone to survey and measure your property. Conversely, the plans can be put together from existing blueprints.
2. Design Floor Plans
They will be the drawings of your proposed design and should include the approved local planning regulations, future needs and personal tastes/preferences. Keep in mind that some house renovations or extensions fall under permitted development rights. However, you must still apply for the development certificate so that the document serves as proof of the said permit development rights when you plan to sell the property.
3. Elevations
When you have the planning permission, make sure it includes building regulations drawings. You can ask your architect to draw up these plans so that they can give a more in-depth scope of where each particular element will be placed and the material to be used. The construction crew can rely on these drawings to guide them on how to create the home you have envisioned. The guide can include:
- Structural drawings – get a structural engineer to survey your property and review the proposed plans which will then inform you of your planned architectural drawings. It will consist of details such as the size and placement of proposed reinforcements as well as the building materials to be used.
- Electrical drawings – the plans give detailed information on the wiring, including where the plug sockets and inbuilt lights will go. You must agree on the placement of these with your electrician before the project commences. They might seem like a minor detail but can easily complicate things and can become an expense if they need to be corrected.
- Plumbing and sanitary drawings – the plans will give a layout of the kitchen and bathroom fixtures, drains, pipes, and sanitation system. The drawing must take into consideration any findings of the property survey to make the necessary adjustment before starting the project.
Lastly, you might want to consider using a set of 3D renders at any stay of your planning; it is best for this to be at the earlier stage of the process. They will not be construction parse trees but will prove useful when creating plans that can help you sell your property. The 3D renders can help bring the final product to life.
You can find further advice at Four Walls.