Architect vs Online Service for London Extensions: Honest Comparison
Traditional architect or online planning service? Compare costs, process, design quality, and when to use each approach for your London extension project.
Key Takeaways
- Traditional architects cost 8-15% of build cost vs fixed fees for online services
- Online services work best for standard extensions with clear scope
- Complex or listed buildings need traditional architect expertise
- Get instant cost estimate for your extension (Free)
The Traditional Architect Route
A traditional architect is a qualified professional (typically RIBA registered) who provides full architectural services from initial design through construction completion.
How Traditional Architects Work
- 1Initial consultation: Site visit, discuss requirements, feasibility assessment
- 2Design phase: Multiple iterations, concept designs, 3D visualizations
- 3Planning package: Technical drawings, planning statement, submit application
- 4Building regulations: Technical details, structural calculations, submit application
- 5Construction phase: Site visits, contractor coordination, sign-off
Traditional Architect Fees
Percentage-Based Fees (Most Common)
8-15% of total build cost, typically:
- 8-10% for straightforward residential extensions
- 10-12% for more complex projects
- 12-15% for listed buildings or conservation areas
Example: £100,000 build cost = £8,000-15,000 in architect fees
Benefits of Traditional Architects
- Bespoke design: Fully customized to your needs and aesthetic preferences
- Personal relationship: Direct communication, face-to-face meetings
- Complex projects: Expertise in listed buildings, conservation areas, unique designs
- Construction oversight: Site visits, contractor management, quality control
- Full RIBA stages: Comprehensive service from concept to completion
The Online Service Approach
Online planning services like Multiply use technology and standardized processes to deliver planning applications at fixed prices. They focus on common extension types with proven planning success.
How Online Services Work
- 1Online questionnaire: Input property details, extension requirements, preferences
- 2Instant quote: Fixed price based on extension type and complexity
- 3Design generation: Professional designs created based on your inputs
- 4Review and refine: Review designs online, request changes, finalize
- 5Application submission: Complete planning package submitted to council
Online Service Pricing
Fixed Fee Structure
Typical pricing (including drawings, planning application, and submission):
- Single-storey rear extension: £1,500-2,500
- Side return extension: £2,000-3,000
- Combined rear + side return: £2,500-3,500
- Loft conversion: £2,000-3,500
Key difference: Fixed price regardless of build cost. No percentage fees.
Benefits of Online Services
- Fixed pricing: Know exactly what you'll pay upfront, no surprises
- Speed: Faster turnaround for standard extension types
- Convenience: Everything managed online, no need for multiple meetings
- Cost savings: 50-70% cheaper for typical extensions
- Transparency: Clear process, timeline, and deliverables from start
Cost Comparison: Real Examples
| Project | Traditional Architect | Online Service | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4m rear extension (£60k build) | £4,800-9,000 (8-15%) | £2,000-2,500 | £2,800-6,500 |
| Side return (£50k build) | £4,000-7,500 (8-15%) | £2,000-3,000 | £1,000-5,500 |
| Rear + side return (£100k build) | £8,000-15,000 (8-15%) | £2,500-3,500 | £4,500-12,500 |
| Loft conversion (£70k build) | £5,600-10,500 (8-15%) | £2,000-3,500 | £2,100-8,500 |
When to Use a Traditional Architect
Traditional architects are the right choice when:
Complex or Unusual Projects
- Multi-storey extensions with complex structural requirements
- Unusual site constraints (steep slope, narrow access, challenging boundaries)
- Significant reconfiguration of existing space
- Non-standard materials or construction methods
Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas
- Grade I, II*, or II listed buildings (requires specialist expertise)
- Properties in strict conservation areas with extensive restrictions
- Heritage buildings requiring listed building consent
Bespoke Design Requirements
- Highly specific aesthetic vision or architectural style
- Want extensive hand-holding and in-person design workshops
- Need architect's involvement during construction phase
- Prefer developing personal relationship with design professional
When Online Services Work Best
Online services like Multiply are ideal when:
Standard Extension Types
- Single-storey rear extensions up to 6m (3-4m typical)
- Side return extensions (standard London terraced houses)
- Combined rear and side return extensions
- Loft conversions with rear dormers
- Projects under Permitted Development rights
Clear Project Scope
- You know exactly what type of extension you want
- Straightforward property (not listed, standard construction)
- No unusual structural challenges
- Reasonable site access and normal boundary conditions
Budget & Time Conscious
- Want fixed pricing with no percentage fees
- Need fast turnaround (2-4 weeks vs 8-12 weeks)
- Prefer managing everything online without multiple meetings
- Happy with quality functional design rather than bespoke architecture
Design Quality Comparison
This is a common concern. Here's the honest comparison:
Traditional Architect Design
- Bespoke: Fully customized to your specific aesthetic preferences
- Unique: One-of-a-kind design solution for your property
- Iterative: Multiple design rounds based on your feedback
- Personal touch: Reflects architect's individual design philosophy
Online Service Design
- Proven templates: Designs based on successful planning applications
- Professional quality: All designs by qualified architects/technicians
- Functional: Focuses on maximizing space and meeting planning requirements
- Customizable: Options for materials, finishes, layout within scope
Reality check: For standard extensions, both approaches deliver professional, planning-compliant designs. The main difference is customization level and process, not technical quality.
Planning Success Rates
A critical factor: Will your application get approved?
| Aspect | Traditional Architect | Online Service |
|---|---|---|
| Success rate | 85-95% (experienced architects) | 90-95% (standard extensions) |
| Complex projects | Better for unique/difficult sites | May decline complex cases |
| Local knowledge | Varies by architect | Database of borough policies |
| Pre-app advice | Usually recommended (£100-300) | Included in assessment |
| Resubmission | Additional fees may apply | Usually included |
Key insight: For standard extensions, both approaches have excellent success rates. Success depends more on project suitability and borough-specific policies than the service type.
Service Levels and Support
Traditional Architect
- Direct phone/email access to architect
- Face-to-face meetings
- Site visits throughout project
- Personal relationship development
- Response time varies by architect
- May be involved in construction phase
Online Service
- Online chat/email support
- Everything managed remotely
- No site visits required
- Professional team, not single person
- Fast response times (24-48 hrs typical)
- Focused on planning phase only
Honest Pros & Cons Comparison
| Aspect | Traditional Architect | Online Service (Multiply) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ❌ 8-15% of build cost ❌ Unpredictable final fees | ✓ Fixed fee £1,500-3,500 ✓ Predictable costs |
| Timeline | ❌ 8-12 weeks typical ✓ Flexible schedule | ✓ 2-4 weeks typical ❌ Less flexible process |
| Design | ✓ Fully bespoke ✓ Unique to you ✓ Multiple iterations | ✓ Professional quality ❌ Based on templates ~ Limited customization |
| Communication | ✓ Face-to-face meetings ✓ Site visits ❌ Variable responsiveness | ✓ Fast response (24-48hrs) ✓ Everything online ❌ No in-person meetings |
| Best for | ✓ Complex projects ✓ Listed buildings ✓ Bespoke design needs ✓ Construction oversight | ✓ Standard extensions ✓ Clear project scope ✓ Budget conscious ✓ Planning only |
| Risk | ❌ Cost overruns possible ❌ Quality varies by architect ✓ Better for complex cases | ✓ Fixed price guarantee ✓ Consistent quality ❌ May decline complex projects |
Decision Framework: Which Should You Choose?
Choose a Traditional Architect if:
- 1.Your property is listed or in a strict conservation area
- 2.You need a unique, bespoke architectural design
- 3.Your project is complex with unusual structural challenges
- 4.You want architect involvement during construction
- 5.You prefer face-to-face collaboration and site visits
- 6.Your project involves significant internal reconfiguration
Choose an Online Service (Multiply) if:
- 1.You're building a standard rear or side return extension
- 2.Your property is straightforward (not listed, standard construction)
- 3.You know what you want and scope is clear
- 4.Budget is a key consideration (want to save £3,000-10,000)
- 5.You prefer managing everything online at your convenience
- 6.You only need help with planning, not construction phase
Not Sure Which Approach Suits Your Project?
Get an instant assessment of your extension project, including cost estimate and recommended approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from online service to architect if needed?
Yes. If Multiply assesses your project and determines it's too complex for our service, we'll be upfront about it. You can then engage a traditional architect. We'd rather decline a project than deliver suboptimal results.
Do online services provide building regulations drawings?
Most online services, including Multiply, focus on planning applications. Building regulations are typically handled separately (often by your builder's structural engineer). Traditional architects usually provide both as part of their full service.
What if my planning application gets rejected?
Both architects and online services typically offer resubmission support. Multiply includes one free resubmissionif initial application is refused. Traditional architects may charge additional fees or include it depending on their agreement.
Can I get cost estimates before committing?
Online services provide instant quotes. Traditional architects usually offer free initial consultations but may charge for detailed feasibility studies. Always get quotes from multiple architects before committing.
Who owns the design rights?
This varies. Some architects retain copyright of their designs. Online services typically grant you full rights to use drawings for your project. Always clarify this in your agreement.
Can online services help with difficult neighbours?
Online services can prepare neighbour consultation letters and planning statements addressing concerns. However, for contentious situations requiring extensive negotiation, a traditional architect's in-person approach may be more effective.
Final Thoughts
There's no universally "better" choice - it depends entirely on your project type, budget, and preferences.
Traditional architects excel at complex, unique projects requiring bespoke design solutions and hands-on involvement. They're essential for listed buildings, conservation areas, and projects where you want a truly custom architectural response.
Online services like Multiply excel at standard extensions where the scope is clear and speed/cost are priorities. For typical London rear and side return extensions, they offer excellent value and convenience.
The key is being honest about your project's complexity and your own priorities. If in doubt, get quotes from both approaches and make an informed decision based on your specific situation.