Question 1

What Services Does Rejig Architects Provide?

Accepted Answer

We provide residential architectural services including:

New build houses
House extensions
Refurbishments and retrofits
Attic conversions
Planning applications
Technical construction drawings
Tender packages
Interior architecture and spatial planning
SEAI grant-supported retrofit projects

Question 2

Do I Need Planning Permission for a House Extension?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Certain extensions may qualify as exempted development under Irish planning regulations. This depends on factors including the size of the extension, previous additions to the property, window locations, and site conditions. We can advise whether planning permission is required for your project at an early stage.

Question 3

When Should I Contact an Architect?

Accepted Answer

Ideally, you should engage an architect at the beginning of the process. Early involvement helps establish a realistic brief, budget, and project scope while identifying planning and construction constraints before design work progresses too far.

Question 4

How Much Does a House Extension Cost in Dublin?

Accepted Answer

Construction costs vary depending on size, specification, structural complexity, and the condition of the existing house. As a broad guide, residential extensions in Dublin often range between €2,500–€4,000+ per square metre excluding VAT and professional fees.

Question 5

How Long Does the Design and Construction Process Take?

Accepted Answer

Typical timelines vary depending on project complexity, but a residential extension project may include:

Initial design: 2–4 weeks
Planning process: 8–12 weeks
Technical design and tender: 8–12 weeks
Construction: 4–9 months

Larger refurbishments and retrofit projects may take longer.

Question 6

Do You Work on Older and Period Houses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We regularly work with Victorian, Edwardian, and mid-century homes across Dublin. We have extensive experience working in building conservation and understand how best to keep older homes warm, dry, and characterful while improving layout, daylighting, and environmental performance.

Question 7

Will I Need a Structural Engineer?

Accepted Answer

Most extension and refurbishment projects involving structural alterations will require input from a structural engineer. We coordinate with engineers and other consultants throughout the design process as required.

Question 8

What Information Do I Need Before Starting?

Accepted Answer

It is helpful to have:
A rough idea of your budget
Examples or inspiration images
A list of priorities for the project
Any existing drawings of the house
However, many clients come to us at a very early stage and we can help guide the process from the outset.

Question 9

Can You Help Me Choose a Builder?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can prepare tender drawings and documentation to help obtain accurate prices from builders and assist in reviewing quotations during the tender process.

Question 10

Do You Only Work in Dublin?

Accepted Answer

Our primary focus is residential architecture projects in Dublin and the surrounding areas, including Drumcondra, Phibsborough, Glasnevin, Ranelagh, Clontarf, Rathmines, Dublin 7, Dublin 8, and Dublin 9. That being said, we're always interested in talking to new clients about their homes. If in doubt, get in touch!

Question 11

What Makes a Successful Extension Project?

Accepted Answer

Successful projects are rarely just about adding floor area. Careful attention to layout, natural light, material quality, energy performance, and connection to the garden often has the greatest impact on how a home feels and functions.

Question 12

Do I Need a Survey?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Accurate measured surveys are an essential starting point for most extension and refurbishment projects. A survey records the existing house, site levels, drainage locations, and structural layout, providing the basis for design, planning, and construction drawings. For complex projects we always work with a third-party survey company as this ensures the accuracy of the survey when it comes to planning and construction.

Question 13

What Is Included in a 2 Hour Consultation?

Accepted Answer

A typical consultation includes:

A walk-through of the house and site
Discussion of your brief and priorities
Advice on planning permission and exempted development
Initial design and layout ideas
Budget and timeline guidance
Discussion of energy upgrades and SEAI grants where relevant
Advice on the overall design and construction process

Following the meeting, we can advise on appropriate next steps and required services.

Question 14

Will You Provide Sign-Off and Certification?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can provide architectural services through construction stage, including inspections and certification associated with planning compliance and Building Regulations, depending on the scope of appointment. Certification requirements vary between projects, and we can explain what is required during the initial stages of the process.

Question 15

Are You RIAI Registered?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Rejig Architects is a registered architectural practice, and all architectural services are provided by a Registered Architect listed on the Register of Architects maintained by the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI).

FAQ