Do I Need an Architect for a Renovation in Perth?

If you’re planning a renovation in Perth, you’ve probably asked:

“Do I actually need an architect, or can I just get drawings done?”

The short answer is: it depends on your project.

Some renovations benefit greatly from an architect, while others can be handled perfectly well with a draftsperson or building designer.

This guide will help you decide what’s right for your situation.

The Key Difference: Design vs Documentation

At a high level, the decision comes down to this:

• Architect → Focus on design, layout, performance, and overall outcome
• Draftsperson → Focus on producing drawings for approval and construction

Both play a role — but not every project needs both at the same level.

When You DON’T Need an Architect

For many Perth renovations, you can move forward without a full architectural service.

A draftsperson or building designer is usually enough if:

• You’re doing a simple extension or internal reconfiguration
• The layout is fairly straightforward
• You already have a clear idea of what you want
• The project has minimal structural complexity
• You mainly need plans for council approval

In these cases, keeping things simple can save time and money.

When You SHOULD Consider an Architect

An architect becomes more valuable as the complexity and importance of design increases.

You should strongly consider one if:

• You’re doing a major renovation or full home transformation
• The existing home has limitations or awkward layout issues
• You want to improve natural light, airflow, and spatial flow
• You’re aiming for a high-end or custom outcome
• You care about energy efficiency or passive design

This is especially true for older Perth homes where design decisions can significantly impact comfort and usability.

Renovating Older Homes in Perth

Many homes in areas like Balcatta and surrounding suburbs were built decades ago.

Common issues include:

• Poor orientation (hot in summer, cold in winter)
• Small or closed-off living spaces
• Limited natural light
• Inefficient layouts

A renovation isn’t just about adding space — it’s an opportunity to fix these problems properly.

This is where good design thinking can make a major difference.

The Cost Factor

One of the main reasons people avoid architects is cost.

• Drafting services: ~$3,000 – $15,000
• Architectural services: higher, depending on involvement

But the real question isn’t just cost — it’s value.

Better design can:

• Reduce construction waste and inefficiencies
• Avoid costly redesigns later
• Improve long-term energy performance
• Increase property value

The Hybrid Approach (Most Common in Perth)

In reality, many successful renovations use a hybrid approach:

1. Initial design thinking (layout, orientation, improvements)
2. Practical drafting and documentation
3. Council approval drawings

This balances:

• Cost
• Design quality
• Approval efficiency

Council Approvals Still Apply

Whether you use an architect or draftsperson, most renovations in Perth still require:

• Site plans
• Floor plans
• Elevations
• Possibly shadow diagrams

The key is ensuring the drawings are:

• Accurate
• Compliant with R-Codes
• Clearly documented

Poor documentation is one of the biggest causes of delays.

Common Renovation Mistakes

• Jumping straight into drawings without proper planning
• Copying layouts without considering orientation
• Not thinking about future use of the space
• Underestimating council requirements
• Choosing purely based on lowest cost

Renovations are one of the best chances to improve how a home actually works — not just how it looks.

So, Do You Need an Architect?

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• Simple project + clear plan → Draftsperson is usually enough
• Complex project or major change → Architect is worth considering
• Somewhere in between → A design-led drafting approach works well

Planning a Renovation in Perth?

Whether you’re updating a single space or transforming your entire home, getting the right design approach early will save you time, money, and stress.

Our Balcatta-based design team can help with:

• Renovation design and layout improvements
• Council approval drawings
• Energy-efficient and passive design strategies

Get in touch to discuss your renovation and find the right approach for your project.