Re-configuration of layout of kitchen and dining area

HI MIMI, YOU DO NOT SAY WHERE IN THE UK YOU ARE. I AM IN GLASGOW AND WOULD CONFIRM THAT HERE IN SCOTLAND THE WORKS WOULD REQUIRE A BUILDING WARRANT FROM THE DISTRICT COUNCIL. YOU DO NOT 'NEED' AN ARCHITECT BUT YOU DO NEED SOMEONE LIKE MYSELF TO ADVISE YOU ON YOUR PROPOSALS AND SUBMIT AN APPLICATION TO THE COUNCIL HOPE THIS HELPS IAN

Hello Mimi, yes, an architect would definitely be interested in assisting you for this kind of job. If you plan on demolishing walls, an expert view is definitely necessary for your safety and peace of mind. Also, as pointed out already, you will need approval from your Local Authority. You do not strictly need an architect for this job, but I always suggest to hire one. Being an architect myself, my view is biased of course, but I sincerely believe that money invested in the right professional always pays back in terms of comfort, quality, construction costs and value of the property. Allow me to list a few examples. If a more efficient layout allows to gain 1 square metre of living area, this would already be worth whatever difference of cost an architect requires compared to other professionals. By specifying the correct materials and detailing correctly the building elements, the architect will save hundreds of pounds in maintenance works. By providing flexible solutions, an architect will help you meet your needs in the long term (a room can be split in two with a sliding wall system for example) which will save the money in the future. By providing quality of design, the architect will help you work closely with the Planning Department and help you obtain larger extensions through a more sensible design. I could continue, but I think my point is clear. In conclusion: yes an architect would be interested in assisting, and, in my opinion, hiring a good architect will save you money and increase the quality of your everyday life. Best of luck with your project. Kind regards, Davide di Martino, PhD ARB