When it comes to undertaking a renovation in your home or space, having the support of an architect can make the difference between a successful project and one filled with challenges.
In this regard, it’s normal to wonder how much an architect charges for a renovation project in Spain. To get an idea, we need to consider a series of factors that can influence the price in the Spanish context.
We have prepared this article with the aim of giving you a general idea of what you can expect if you plan to hire this professional.
Keep reading!
The role of the architect in a renovation.
Before delving into the costs associated with an architect’s services in renovation projects in Spain, it is important to understand the role they play at each stage of the process.
Architects not only bring their expertise in design and construction, but they also act as key facilitators to ensure your ideas are realized efficiently and successfully.
In the initial phase, the architect works closely with you to understand your needs, desires, and goals for the renovation.
This involves discussing in detail how you want the renovated space to look and function. Additionally, they assess the technical and legal feasibility of the project in order to save time and money, as well as avoid future issues.
Once the design is defined and the necessary permits are obtained, the architect oversees the execution of the renovation.
This includes coordinating contractors, ensuring that specifications and deadlines are met, and resolving any unforeseen issues that may arise during construction.
This is when project management experience plays a crucial role in keeping the process moving smoothly without setbacks.
Factors that influence the fees of a renovation project.
Among the main factors that influence the fees of a renovation project, we have:
Complexity and size of the renovation.
The extent of the renovation and the complexity of the desired changes can affect the architect’s fees. The more demanding the size, design, and planning, the higher the investment from the client will be.
Location
The location of the project also influences the fees due to differences in the cost of living and professional rates between urban and rural areas.
Type of renovation.
We can categorize the type of renovation into 3 categories:
1. Full renovation
Full renovations involve a complete transformation of a space, from demolition to reconfiguration and construction.
These projects are usually the most expensive in terms of fees due to the amount of work and planning required.
The professional must design a new layout, select materials, and oversee the execution of all aspects of the project.
2. Partial renovation
Partial renovations focus on specific areas of a building, such as a kitchen, a bathroom, or a room.
These projects can vary in complexity, but generally involve minor changes to the existing structure.
The architect’s fees for partial renovations tend to be lower compared to full renovations, as the scope of work is more limited.
3. Interior design renovation
Interior design renovations focus on the aesthetics and functionality of a space without making significant structural changes.
Architects can be involved in interior design projects to create attractive and functional environments.
In this case, the fees are typically based on the time spent on design and project management.
Type of contract.
There are 4 types of contracts that can influence the cost of an architect for a renovation project:
1. Fixed fees
In a fixed-fee contract, the architect sets a fixed amount for their services in the renovation project.
This gives the client a clear understanding of how much the architect’s work will cost from the beginning. It is especially useful in projects with a well-defined scope.
2. Percentage of Construction Cost
In this type of contract, the architect’s fees are calculated as a percentage of the total construction cost of the renovation project.
This structure ties the fees directly to the size and investment of the renovation. It may be suitable for larger-scale projects.
3. Hourly Rates
Some architects choose to charge hourly rates. In this case, the client pays for the time the architect spends on the renovation project.
This structure can be more flexible but requires accurate tracking of the time spent.
4. Mixed Fees
Sometimes, a contract can be set up that combines different fee structures.
For example, the architect might charge a fixed fee for the initial design and then apply a percentage to the construction cost.
This flexibility can be tailored to the specific needs of the project.
Project Changes
In a renovation project, the possibility of changes to the project cannot be ruled out, such as:
1. An adjustment to the interior design
If you decide to modify the room layout or change the originally agreed-upon interior design, this will require adjustments to the plans and the construction schedule.
A change in the layout of the walls, for example, may involve relocating electrical and plumbing installations.
2. Choice of Materials
If you decide to go for more expensive or higher-quality materials than those initially specified, this will affect the total cost of the renovation.
For example, if you switch from standard ceramic tiles to marble tiles.
3. Addition of Extra Elements
If, during the course of the work, you decide to add extra features, such as a fireplace or an additional bathroom.
The construction of new structures or the incorporation of complex systems will require time and resources.
4. Delays in Execution
Delays in the execution of the project, whether due to adverse weather conditions or unexpected construction issues.
Workers and contractors may need to work overtime or adjust their schedules.
How much does an architect charge for a renovation project?
Determining an exact average of how much an architect charges for a renovation project in Spain can be tricky due to the variability in the factors we discussed earlier, such as location, type of renovation, and the contract structure.
But if we have to rely on a generalized estimate, we can offer the following:
If the architect chooses to charge fixed fees
For small- to medium-scale renovations with fixed fees, architects in Spain typically charge between 7% and 15% of the total construction cost.
For example, in a renovation project with a construction cost of €50,000, the architect’s fees could range between €3,500 and €7,500.
If the architect opts for a percentage of the construction cost
If the architect uses a percentage of the construction cost, a common range might be between 7% and 10%.
Following the previous example with a construction cost of €50,000, the architect’s fees could range between €3,500 and €5,000.
If the architect opts for hourly rates
For projects that use hourly rates, architects’ hourly fees can range from €50 to €100 per hour, depending on their experience and location. The total fees will depend on the amount of time spent on the project.
Conclusion
Now that you have a better idea of how much you might invest as a client in a renovation project, all that’s left is to organize your requirements and schedule a meeting with the architect.
Looking for a quality architect? At Fran Cortés Arquitectos, we have a long track record of successful renovation projects that turned our clients’ dreams into reality.
