Pre Design

  • Working Out Your Requirements

    Before you begin designing, take time to talk with friends and family about what you need, how to improve your home, and which features to keep.

    Requirements 
  • Choosing An Architectural Designer

    Consider objective factors like qualifications and PI cover, and subjective ones like personal chemistry or if you like their design style.

    Choosing Designer 
  • Collating Your Ideas

    Building a collection of images and examples will help your designer create a design to your taste. It also gives you time to reflect and discuss ideas with a partner who may have a different view.

    Ideas 
  • Building_methods_1

    Building methods

    The most common building methods in Ireland are blockwork and timber frame, but other options exist too. Building methods can be grouped into categories and should be chosen early in the design process.

    Building Methods 
  • Other key structural decisions

    Building methods primarily focus on wall construction, though some, like ICF or prefabricated systems, can also construct roofs using the same materials as the walls.

    Structural Decisions 
  • Direct Labour Vs Main Contractor

    direct labour or a main contractor depends on your experience and time. Direct labour saves on contractor profit but requires management skills, contractors handle the entire build for you.

    Labour 
  • Budget and Financing

    Setting a budget is personal and depends on savings, your home’s value, or your mortgage limit. Avoid being overly optimistic—underestimate what you can afford. Start with a conservative amount you’re willing to spend.

    Budget and Financing