- Ben Craven Architects
RIBA Chartered Practice - Find an Architect
Why use a Chartered Architect?
We spend a lot of money on our property. It is one of the biggest investments that we are likely to make in our lifetime. Protect your investment by working with a team that can give you reliable advice, starting with your architect.
Architects provide a service that extends well beyond producing a set of drawings. Architects can guide you through the complex procedures of planning permission and building regulations and monitor the builder’s programme of works through to completion. RIBA members are obliged to carry professional indemnity insurance – giving you peace of mind.
What is RIBA?
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a world-renowned professional body for promoting excellence in the field of architecture.. Their aim is to ‘deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment’ and to drive excellence across the industry. To be chartered by them means meeting a series of strict requirements that ensure the practice is committed to being the best.
The Royal Institute of British Architects, abbreviated to RIBA, is a global professional membership body, promoting excellence in the field of architecture. The primary focus of the organization is on the advancement of architectural practice, with a constant commitment to good quality, design, and customer service. With the help of its members and fellow architects, RIBA champions better buildings and places, stronger communities, and a sustainable environment. Inclusivity, ethics, environmental awareness, and collaborations, are the backbone of the organization.
RIBA chartered architects are committed to excellence
Being a RIBA chartered practice demonstrates your chosen architect firm is committed to delivering the highest standard of work, professionalism and ethics. This means you can be sure your project will feature imaginative design, will be managed by a competent team to keep it running smoothly and be built in the most sustainable way possible.
They’ve undergone rigorous testing
Only architects that continue to meet a number of strict eligibility criteria can register as a RIBA chartered practice. The criteria they need to meet includes:
An effective quality management system
Comprehensive health and safety policies
Following a code of practice
Employing the necessary number of chartered architects
The appropriate professional indemnity insurance
So, when you choose a RIBA chartered practice, just like Ben Craven Architects, you’ll be partnering with a firm that has continually proven its commitment to professionalism.
Can you use an Architectural designer instead?
There are many businesses offering ‘architectural services'. This description can lead to misunderstandings. It is a term often used by those who offer technical services but who have not completed the professional training and examinations required to meet the standards of the governments registration body.
Architects are obliged to follow the RIBA and ARB code of conduct, any complaints from clients can be directed to these bodies which hold professionals to account. 'Architectural Designers' are not members of these professional bodies, therefore you may not have the same protection as a client.
If in doubt, check the online Register of Architects or ask the service provider for evidence of their membership of ARB. Details for the architects’ register are available here.
Why not just use a builder?
Some people do allow their contractor to both 'design' and build their project, but this can be a risky approach. Contractors don’t need a license to build homes, nor any formal training. Whereas an architect is held to a statutory code of practise and undertakes years of training before entering the field. Not only this, but they have Professional Indemnity Insurance, meaning their clients are protected.
You may not achieve the best layout and therefore value for money by using a contractor for the design, they are unlikely to design based on you and are likely to use an 'off the shelf' layout.
Get more value out of your project
Architects are highly skilled and professionally trained to turn your aspirations into reality. They will guide you through the design, planning and construction process whether you are constructing a new building or adapting an existing property.
Architects apply impartial and creative thinking to projects large and small. They add value, whether from maximising light and space, adding functionality, or achieving the best return on your investment.
"A good architect actually pays for themselves - more than once. You will reap the reward and the building will be hugely better and deliver much better value for it."
Kevin McCloud, Grand Designs
Architects’ professional expertise and good design will maximise the potential of your project, providing the best amount of storage available, the most natural flow of space, or the best use of natural light. An architect will ensure your extension fully reflects your personality and character.
As architects we aim to empower our clients to make bold choices they might not otherwise make.
View Ben Craven Architects on the RIBA Chartered Practice Find an Architect service.
Ben Craven Architects - RIBA Chartered Practice in Preston
We’re open Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm
We work when you need us. Ben Craven Architects can organise appointments at evenings and weekends to suit your schedule.
We are a Preston based practice specialising in planning applications, new build projects, extensions, conversions & building regulation applications. We have extensive experience working all over the UK.
Email us directly contact@bencravenarchitects.co.uk
or Call 07540 591628