Why You Should Work With an Architect

There are many valuable reasons to involve an architect in a building project:

1. Holistic Vision – An architect can turn your requirements and “dreams” into a functional, practical concept.
2. Legal Expertise – They understand all legal and statutory requirements and know how to navigate them.
3. Ongoing Learning – Architects keep studying even after formal qualifications, staying up to date with the latest trends and developments in the industry.
4. Time and Cost Savings – They help you avoid costly and time-consuming mistakes.
5. Budget Planning – They assist in creating a realistic and effective budget.
6. Contractor Selection – They can help you choose the right building contractor.
7. Security Advice – They advise on safety and security aspects of your project.
8. Aesthetic Considerations – They ensure the design is visually appealing.
9. Environmental Impact – They consider how the building will affect its surroundings.
10. Human Well-being – They understand how space, colour, and texture affect health, and plan accordingly when choosing finishes.

At GEOMETRICS, our team of architects, interior designers, and landscaping specialists has been known for creativity, efficiency, and expertise for 25 years – yes, it’s our anniversary! We’ve built a reputation for designing remarkable homes, inspiring interiors, and beautiful gardens. Clients often say, “We love your ideas – we never would have thought of that ourselves.”

We listen carefully to each client’s needs, give clear advice on legal and financial considerations, and approach every project with patience, understanding, and perseverance – earning the trust of our clients along the way.

Working with an Architect

When you work with an architect, a formal agreement is signed. This outlines:

• The services to be delivered
• The information the client must provide
• The agreed professional fee (payable at different stages of the project)

The same applies when working with interior designers or landscaping specialists. At GEOMETRICS, we guide you through all the required steps from start to finish.

Affording an Architect – A Common Myth

Many believe architects are only for the wealthy. In reality, clients with smaller budgets often need more guidance to avoid costly mistakes. Our experienced, compassionate architects can help you achieve great results without wasting money.

Architect fees, recommended by the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP), the Council for the Built Environment (CBE), and voluntary architectural organisations, are negotiable.

The Six Stages of the Agreement

Stage 1: Inception – Understanding the client’s brief, site details, constraints, budget, consultants needed, and project timeline.
Stage 2: Concept and Viability – Developing initial designs, assessing space needs, materials, services, and compliance with land use rights.
Stage 3: Design Development – Refining the design, consulting authorities, integrating services, and confirming costs.
Stage 4.1: Documentation and Procurement – Preparing documents for local authority submission, coordinating technical details, and finalising specifications.
Stage 4.2: Tender Process – Calling for and evaluating tenders, recommending contractors, and arranging contracts.
Stage 5: Construction – Overseeing construction, inspecting work, managing the contract, and helping secure the occupation certificate.
Stage 6: Close Out – Finalising handover, issuing completion certificates, and providing as-built drawings and guarantees.

Payments are made as a percentage of the total fee, due only after each stage is completed and invoiced. An architect may act as the Principal Consultant or Principal Agent for the client, and can be hired for all or part of the stages. For small projects, a time-based fee arrangement can also be negotiated.

Contact Information for GEOMETRICS

For professional assistance with design, architecture, landscaping, interiors, borehole applications, and project management, you can contact GEOMETRICS. We offer comprehensive support to help you navigate legal requirements and ensure a smooth, successful project.

Tel: 083 294 4419
E-mail: info@geometricsdesign.co.za

Feel free to reach out for expert guidance in making your project a success!