Jdyer

Hi, Having researched more and further consideration we have decided against supply and erect from a timber frame company and have decided to go down the self design and stick build on site route. (Although we still might ask TF companies to quote ). We know exactly what we want in terms of size, floor plan appearance and have a pretty good idea on what materials to use. Our design will be a pretty straightforward barn style on a flat plot. Our question is do we go down the Architect route or go with a draftsman? Is the draftsman route logical (as we already know what we want) offering a financial saving ? or do people still feel the qualified Architect is the sensible route and money well spent? Had some architects quotes which have on average come in at between 3-5% of our projected total build cost. “Qualified” Architect quotes have come in between £8-£15k so far. I guess a draftsman will charge nearer £1000 for drawing planning and building reg plans Many thanks.

The kit we found is from Scandia Hus - the Malthouse Barn https://www.scandia-hus.co.uk/designs/malthouse-barn/ They charge nearly 200k for the kit and erection with window installation. They estimate it would cost around 350k for the finished house. "The building set includes the timber frame with a fully boarded roof, insulation, 15mm plasterboard, plasterboard screws, Swedish triple glazed windows and external doors. Also included are Swedish internal doors, skirting boards, coving, architrave, insulated loft hatch and ladder, open or closed treat staircase and mechanical ventilation system. The estimate assumes standard foundation requirements and a good, above average specification of finishing materials. It does not include any external works, connecting to utilities or associated professional fees."

Hi, We are in the process of applying for OPP for a timber frame barn style family home. We know what we want to achieve but unsure which is the best route to take. We have found a Kit company that has a design that we love - is this a good route to go down as we would save on Architect and structural engineer costs (20k ish) but do they charge a premium? (Looking at supply and erect only , not turn key) Or are we financially better off biting the bullet with Architect and SE costs and acquiring the plans that we want and then contracting joiners to build on-site. Any advice from anyone who has experienced this situation would be greatly received Many thanks.