Why keep your architect involved during the build?
- Tim Carter
- 17 hours ago
- 2 min read
At Habitat+ Architects, we believe our role shouldn’t end when the drawings are issued and a contractor is appointed. Stage 5 (the build) is where the design becomes reality — and, in our experience, it is also where having the original design team involved can add significant value to a client.
We’ve seen first-hand how our involvement during construction can protect both the building and the client’s investment.
It’s easy to recall examples where contractors have made mistakes either through human error or negligence. On one project, we identified that door closers had been incorrectly installed on fire doors, compromising their ability to perform as intended. On another, we spotted that timber cladding had not been properly ventilated, a relatively small construction detail that, if left unresolved, could have resulted in moisture build-up and decay to the timber frame and cladding.
A few weeks ago we identified a dimensional error in a contractor’s sub-structure early enough to correct it before the timber frame arrived. Had this gone unnoticed, the frame would not have fitted correctly, and would have resulted in substantial additional costs and delay.
Perhaps most importantly, we’ve supported a client through the insolvency of their main contractor, helping them navigate a difficult situation by protecting their financial position throughout the construction process. Our involvement helped ensure that the project could continue and, ultimately, be completed without financial loss to them.
These examples highlight why we see Stage 5 as much more than simply attending site meetings, or issuing a set of drawings and moving on.
We can provide an independent pair of eyes on your behalf — reviewing construction, answering technical queries, identifying potential problems early and helping you make informed decisions when unexpected issues arise.
Because we understand the design, the brief and the reasons behind the decisions made earlier in the project, we can assess problems in the context of the whole building rather than simply finding a short-term solution.
Good architecture isn’t just about producing good drawings. It’s about helping you bring to life the building you set out to create.
And sometimes, the value of having your architect involved is measured in the problems that don’t happen.
If you’re planning a project, we’d be happy to discuss how our continued involvement through
construction can protect your investment and add value to your build.
