What do you do if you have a tight budget and limited resources for building design?

For conversions and extensions we recommend a feasibility study to help establish the viability of a scheme. Options can be developed with both economy and sustainability in mind utilising as much of the existing fabric of a building where appropriate. Initial budget costs can be established with contractors and timelines established allowing the client to make meaningful decisions.

Feasibility Studies are a must and will help focus upon what is achievable within the current restraints. This process of evaluation will also offer up potential areas for future expansion and thus maximise the current budget.

Begin the process with prioritizing the needs vs. the wants. This allows one to hone in on what is most important, making decisions about what is included and what is not, more streamline, efficient and cost effective.

Leverage Technology: Use Revit (BIM) to optimize the design process, reduce errors, and improve efficiency. Revit allows architects, engineers, and construction professionals to work on a unified model, facilitating better collaboration and communication. This integration helps identify and resolve potential issues early in the design phase, reducing costly changes during construction. In addition, with Clash Detection the software can automatically detect clashes between different building systems (e.g., plumbing, electrical, HVAC), allowing for resolution before construction begins. This preemptive approach prevents costly rework and delays on-site.

It might be better to consider projects on a system basis. For example, one might think they "need" an irrigation system for their landscaping. But instead of reevaluating irrigation as a "want", consider the whole project as a system. Channel rainwater from parking areas to water drought tolerant plants. Collect water from roofs to provide a continuous watering source for more water hungry plants. Plant trees and create shaded areas that will protect plants from excessive sun exposure. When considering a project as a whole, "needs" and "wants" can blend in to satisfy even the tightest budget.

Ajustar a medidas medias los espacios ayuda a reducir costos, integrar jardines interiores y espacios sin división de muros reduce el tiempo de obra lo que se traduce en menor costo de mano de obra, ojo no en todos los casos, como en todo proyecto el costo final va a depender mayormente del diseño, es importante definir todo desde el anteproyecto arquitectónico

To build is expensive. More time building means more costs. Maybe i would research for modular constructions or pre manufactured solutions to see if it will help reduce the costs. Of course a simple design, not so big areas, considering the budget restrictions and the use - standard windows for example, standard doors would allways help.

I totally agree, also including colors that blend the rooms and playing with patterns and materials on walls to create focal points.

Once the priorities and objectives of the project are defined, the task of optimizing space becomes less arduous. Incorporating multi-purposes spaces office/guest room, office/exercise room, mudroom/pantry, etc. there is less redundancy of materials such as framing lumber, drywall, wiring and heating ducts, etc. By viewing all the components of the project such as objectives, priorities, space, etc. in a Venn diagram it can be easier to visualize how the various components interrelate and create opportunities for cost savings. Lastly, it is important to taking into consideration the back end (operating costs) as well as the front end costs.

Consider dropping the usual structural systems ie steel or concrete frames and use structural metal studs for bearing walls. Save $10 per SF.

The choice and procurement of building materials is key to success in a building project. The main considerations are: costs, durability, availability, sustainability, aesthetics and sourcing. Here some key points for each of these criterias. Cost is obvious and has a lot to do with negotiation skills on the procurement side. Materials with long-lasting performance can ensure the durability of the new build and avoid costly maintenance and repairs. Local sourcing will improve the sustainability of the construction and may solve some availability issues. And finally, aeshtetic is an important criteria for the owner and future occupant.