Architects' testimonials

Two Architect in the House participants from last year tell us why their practices will be signing up again in 2008.

Mark Anderson, founder of Marchitects Ltd, has been involved in Architect in the House for the last three years.

He was first attracted to the scheme as a way of raising his public profile and making contact with householders considering house alterations. The higher commission rate that Mark enjoyed inspired him to continue his support three years on:

‘Architect in the House allows the general public to access a RIBA chartered architect, obtaining friendly and professional advice in return for a small donation to Shelter.

It is really important that enough architects sign up to support this great scheme, which not only benefits the public, but also the architect. After all, becoming more accessible can only be in our profession's best interests.’

James Barker, the director of Create Ltd, took part in last year's Architect in the House, which resulted in Les Courtillets commission in Guernsey.

‘Our client's brief was to provide a new open plan kitchen, dining and informal sitting area, which would be adaptable for both family living and also entertaining.

The project involved the partial removal of an existing traditional lean-to kitchen extension, replaced with a new oak framed pitched roof extension, giving careful consideration to the lighting which is designed to complement the structure.

The reason why we are supporting Architect in the House, is that it raises the profile for RIBA chartered architects, whilst increasing awareness of the services that we offer with the general public and has the added benefit of raising money for Shelter.’