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Assuming the difference is just that the Architect is ARB (and maybe RIBA)? whilst the design agency isn't?
Are you making sure you use a proper form of appointment?
Maybe being biased, but I'd often look to use the architect if possible due to the added security offered through the ARB. The architect may also have a better knowledge of what's required in running a job, PPI, etc
mjw1988-
Not sure, haven't got down to the shortlisting of either yet to be honest, I suspect I am just being worried by meeting a very high end architect last week, who was talking lots about changing layouts, going out and getting inspiration from other areas, employing a quantity surveyor etc. when all we are really looking for is someone to help us get the house into a liveable condition and maybe put on a 3m extension on and convert the attic, and given that would we be better getting a cheaper agency to do so?
We are meeting another architect in a couple of weeks, so hopefully she may be more up our street!
I may PM you if that is OK?
Sam_w
So things are slowly moving on with this...
I do have a question for people though, which is to do with the relative merits of a full architect vs. a design agency. We are essentially not looking to change the layout of the house, bar maybe shift a wall by a couple of feet, and will only be adding a simple box extension (max allowed under PD). So my question is, is the added expense of an architect worth it over a design agency when essentially I just need someone to draw plans and deal with planning and building regs. We are working with a structural engineer already who will work with whatever architects\design agency we go with, so guess that has to be taken into consideration.