Adding to your existing property with a professionally designed extension is a big job – one that demands careful planning, creativity and flair, and an eye for the technical.

Because it’s such a time-intensive, and expensive, undertaking, you’ll want to hire a professional home extension architect who understands your vision. After all, the right person can make all the difference to the finished product. Whether you want to add an ensuite to your master bedroom, remodel your kitchen or create an entirely new living space, a skilled architect can help bring your vision to life.

At hipages, we’re here to help you find and hire the best local home extension architect for your project.

• When will you need a home extension architect?
• Why should you hire a professional home extension architect?
• How to hire the best home extension architect for you
• How much does a home extension architect cost?

When will you need a home extension architect?

Depending on the current state of your home, you might be thinking about an extension to:

• Add more space: If your family is growing or you simply need more space in your house, an architect can design an extension that maximises the available floor space while maintaining the integrity of your home’s existing structure

• Improve the flow of your floor plan: Architects can reconfigure and even extend existing spaces to better serve your day-to-day needs, whether you want to have an open-plan living area, add a home office for hybrid working or build a private guest suite

• Raise your property’s value: Adding an extension can greatly increase the market value of your property. So even if you’re not planning to sell right now, it’s still a smart investment for your future

• Modernise your entire home: An architect can help you update and bring a splash of modern charm to your home

Remember that home extensions will need to comply with building codes and local council regulations.If you’re working with an architect, they will be able to handle the administrative side of things to make sure your preferred design is fully compliant.

Why should you hire a professional home extension architect?

Architects are trained to think creatively and can bring unique designs ideas to the table that reflect your personal style. Depending on their level of experience, they’ll also have a technical understanding of what’s needed to make your extension as structurally sound and energy-efficient as possible.

Good architects will oversee the entire project from concept to completion, coordinating with builders, engineers, draftspersons and other tradies so you don’t have to deal with all those headaches. Speaking of headaches, architects will look into the local building codes, council laws and planning permissions to guide you through the approval process.

While hiring an architect may seem like a big expense, their expertise can save you thousands in the long run by avoiding making costly mistakes or getting delayed.

How to hire the best home extension architect for your job

Ready to find the right architect for your home extension? Take some time to do the following first:

• Research and recommendations: You might have friends or family who’ve recently done an extension and have recommendations for a home extension architect. On hipages, we have a huge directory of qualified home extension architects with unique profiles that showcase their work

• Check their credentials: Always make sure your architect is licensed, registered and insured. This will save you from any potential liability issues in case of accidents and or poor planning work

• Set up multiple consultations: Book in a few consultations with different architects to discuss your project and get a sense of their approach and style. You’ll want to make sure they are good communicators before locking yourself into a contract with them

• Ask about previous work: Request to see some examples of the architect's previous work, preferably projects that are similar to your planned extension. Every architect should have a portfolio you can look at – either online or physically

• Discuss timelines: Make sure the architect can commit to your desired timeline and has a clear communication plan in place. You’ll want to get regular updates on how the project is faring at each stage, so having the lines of communication open is a must

• Review contract details: Carefully review the contract before signing. Make sure all the details – e.g. scope of work, timeline for each phase of the extension, payment terms, warranty information, etc. – are included

With hipages you can start connecting with qualified home extension architects in your local area. Read reviews, compare quotes and book in the best professional for your project.

Costs of home extension architects

Some architects will do an initial consultation to discuss your project, which may be free or charged at an hourly rate. Once you lock them in for the job, architects usually charge a percentage of the total project fees or construction costs, which range from 8% to 15%. 

The cost of hiring a home extension architect isn’t one set figure. On the contrary, every job is different and how your architect prices jobs will change from person to person as well. As a rough guide, see below for some ballpark figures on how much you can expect building costs to be, which will then determine the rate of your home extension architect:

• Brick veneer: $1,200 to $1,600 per square metre
• Full brick: $1,300 to $1,680 per square metre 
• Timber frame: $1,480 per square metre

At the end of the day, getting a home extension is a big investment that can completely transform your living space and send your property's value soaring. But attention to detail is key. So in order to achieve the best results, you’ll need to work with a professional home extension architect who can bring your vision to life while staying compliant with local council rules.

Explore hipages today to find and hire the best local home extension architect for your needs. With the right person for the job, you can reimagine your home and enjoy all the benefits of an extension.

Read more: Building cost calculator

Home Extensions Architects FAQs

Is it worth getting an architect for an extension?

Yes, hiring an architect is absolutely worth it for an extension as these professionals are highly experienced in property design and functionality.

How to choose an architect for an extension?

Choose an architect by reviewing their portfolio, checking their credentials, asking for references and having a consultation so they can understand your vision. Personal chemistry and good communication skills should be front-of-mind when making your decision.

How much does an architect charge to draw house plans?

Architects typically charge 8% to 15% of the total construction cost for although some may charge an hourly rate or project fee if you only want to use them to draw up house plans.