Insider insights to choosing the right architect and contractor for your home project

September 25, 2023

When it comes to extensions or renovations, we want to know that we are making the right decisions and trusting the right providers. Here, industry experts attending the PTSB Ideal Home Show offer their advice.

Eva Byrne, founder of Houseology, offers practical tips to finding professionals in your locality

Your home is your haven and finding the right team is key to a successful building project. Look for people whose work you like, who have a reputation for delivering projects successfully and with whom you feel you can have a fruitful working relationship. The role of your architect is to help you find a vision for your home that matches your needs and budget.

Spread the word that you are on the hunt.
Check building sites in your area for the name board of the architect involved.
Search your local authority website to see who has prepared planning applications for similar projects.
You want a builder known for delivering projects in time and on budget. Your architect will have a list of contractors whom they know and trust. Otherwise spread the word amongst friends and colleagues and browse discussion forums.
Resist the temptation to use price as the primary factor as it may cost more in the long run.
In all cases, follow up on references provided and ask about examples of previous work.
Check with the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland to ensure your architect is qualified.

Visit Houseology on stand no. K35 at the PTSB Ideal Home Show

Circa Design provide an entire service, encompassing planning, design and construction

Circa Design is an RIAI architecture, passive design and construction company. Each design is unique to the client’s needs and specifications, whether the focus is on light, comfort, space or energy efficiency. As RIAI-registered architects, Circa Design ensures that your dream becomes a reality through constant communication, careful project management and continual assessment until the project reaches completion and beyond.

Circa Design provide an integrated service to maximise the potential of each project. They realise that every client has their own unique way of living and therefore, their own unique brief. They will work closely with you to understand your individual thoughts and ideas in an efficient and effective manner.

Their construction team are well equipped to transform your design into a reality on site. Circa Design provide a project management service in conjunction with a team of sub-contractors to ensure the integrity of the design is maintained throughout the construction process.

Circa Design have a proven track record of delivering projects of varying scales and budgets demonstrating the flexibility and diversity that exists in their practice. They are acutely aware of the importance of an ongoing relationship with clients during the entire process, from conception to completion.

Visit Circa Design on stand no. M42 at the PTSB Ideal Home Show.

Look to specialist providers, such as Greenheart, to add a personal touch to your home renovation

Greenheart is a family-run joinery business dedicated to crafting beautiful wood interiors. The business was founded over 50 years ago, specialising in doors and staircases. During this time, they have responded to customers’ needs and have added flooring and bespoke units.

Greenheart understands that your home reflects your personality and lifestyle. They take the time to listen to clients’ needs and offer a comprehensive service, from design to manufacture right through to installation. Their mission is to help you design interiors that truly resonate with your vision and needs.

Greenheart are committed to ensuring a high-quality service from start to finish. They pride themselves on attention to detail, on-time delivery, and competitive pricing. When you choose Greenheart, you’re not just selecting a joinery service; you’re inviting a tradition of craftsmanship, and a promise of exceptional quality into your home.

Visit Greenheart (trading as WSM Supplies) at stand no. L70 at the PTSB Ideal Home Show.

At the PTSB Ideal Home Show this October, we have a wide range of architects and contractors ready to answer your home renovation or new build queries including Mad About Design (stand no. O39), Ronan Rose Roberts Architects (stand no. K42), Design & Build (stand no. P51) and many more.

The PTSB Ideal Home Show takes place from 20th to 22nd October, RDS Dublin.

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