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What is the average cost of an architect in NZ?

The average cost of using the full services of an architect for residential projects is approximately 10% of the building works. This can vary greatly depending on the scale and complexity of the project.

complexity of residential projects

The most complex projects are bespoke, one off, tailored, residential architectural designed houses. This requires a lot of time spent compared to larger generic houses designed.

Within this category of residential projects renovations and extensions would be at the most time-consuming end and hence require a higher percent of architecture fees against the overall building budget.

scale of residential projects

The scale of the project also comes into play, a smaller project would require a higher percent architectural fee against the cost of building works. The reverse is true for multimillion dollar projects with a relatively smaller percental of architectural fees.

scope of architect’s services

The scope of services from each architect can differ too. Nic Owen Architects offer full service which also include the design and documentation of all internal fit-out, kitchens, bathrooms, robes etc. This is not always the case for all architects. Therefore, it is best to ask what each architect and service is.

types of architect’s fee structures

Some architects work on a fixed fee, others an hourly rate and others simply a percentage of the build cost.

fixed fees

A determined amount of fees set against a described body of work. This is a great option for clients as the known cost of fees is set at the beginning with no fee surprises encountered later on. If the works differ greatly through the design stage the fixed fee can be renegotiated.

hourly rates

This is a good option if the scope of works or services is undefinable at the initial outset of the engagement. The client pays for the time undertaking by the architect to date. The big downfall with the option is disputes can arrive over how long a service took to complete and often architecture works can take much longer then what maybe expected. Every minute counts which can lead to lackluster design meetings when the goal should be exploring all options to determine the best solution rather then what is the quickest to draw. Not a great long-term option for all architecture stages and services.

percentage of building works

Possibly the best-known method of charging. This solution works well when using an independent Quality Surveyor to determine the potential building costs of a project, as long as both parties (architect and client) have the same outcome in mind.

Nic Owen Architects generally start off with either an hourly rate or a percent based fee service, but quickly lock in to a fixed fee structure when the scope of works have been determined. This ensures financial certainty for both parties throughout the entire project.

but how do you choose an architect? – see link here