Badgers14:


I respect your opinion but ...

Actually the better wordings would be , clients should learn to communicate to the architect what they want and what they can afford.

The client owns the build , he is the employer of the architect. Lots of times people contact an architect to design a 4 bedroom duplex for them with a masters bedroom. That's it!! Then the architect will go wild

Some folks are regretting their build because they weren't fully involved in the design process, the build did not capture the "dream" that they wanted to bring to reality.

I was driving with a friend one time, he saw a duplex under construction, liked it, we meandered to the site and he asked for the engineer.. they swapped contacts and he told the engineer to build exactly the same for him. All my effort to have him look at the floor plan, critique, make adjustments etc before the build fell on deaf ears.. well, in his defense, he was building with his money not mine... fair enough !!

But that building have been on the market for sale for quite some time now because he didn't like the layout of the build.. it didn't feel right he said... this is after 40m+ spent on the build. He could have identified these things at the design stage.

Another guy in my what's group commissioned an architect for a 4 bedroom bungalow. And oga architect delivered. He returned to the country to visit but wasn't happy... venting.. hin must kill the architect, architect built nonsense for him

I asked , what was his brief to the architect.. he said to build a 4 bedroom bungalow! I asked how many rooms are they, he said 4 and I said very well then, you got 4 bedroom bungalow
He said the architect should have known to make it all ensuite, this and that... hmmm... seriously? An architect should tell you how to spend your money? Should tell you what to like??

Sir, that’s why a novice has engaged a learned professional.

An architect should know that having 5 doors in kitchen cum laundry would cost the client more. He should know that having too many walls will affect air circulation. He should understand having large windows to take advantage of natural lighting.

All the best architects on this platform that I’ve worked with knew what it takes to get past me. I’ve been drafting since the age of 10.

Ibk2020:
Since the previous design is condemn, I want to safe myself the stress... Please I will appreciate if anyone can come up with a decent and functional floor plan only for me. Free or paid... Thanks

The land is 435sqm (20.50m X 21.46m)


* 1 master bedroom, master bathroom with walking closet
* main lounge
* dining area
* bed room 1 en-suite
* bed room 2 en-suite
* visitors toilet
* kitchen *average size**( only dining door and exit door behind)
* ( kitchen store should have ventilation)
* entrance porch
* ante room
* laundry
* lobby (should have a window, to avoid **dark** lobby)

Cc
Abolarin91
EgunMogaji2
Horlardorjah
n3xt
mrsteel
vickzie

Do you have a survey?

n3xt:
Bungalow Lovers
Here’s something simple for starters and retirees.
#designs #inspiration

Se you go secretly share the plan?

Hajji M.

Greetings experts in the house.

Please what could be the cause of the cracks on this wall. Construction is still on going. Just finished the Parapet and about to do wood work/roofing.

What might be the best way to solve this crack already showing? Thank you for any help/advice.

Abolarin91:
Someone like me can never accept assumption, never! I must have my own dream before even thinking of consulting you, I tell you what I want and you make it work or suggest your own professional experience to me.

Well that’s if you and your architect know everything.

I can see you’ve been talking about courtyard as a solution to dark lobby. How about atrium or sunroof?

You need not just an architect but someone who can translate your dream into reality.

Badgers14:


Ma'am, I am just a Nairaland trained Engineer

But let me take a stab at this thing...

Well, I would say yes!

But I would highly suggest bringing in our real world expert on the subject matter.

Spyder880,
Aventure,
N3xt
Dennis3D
Segzy14

And host of others I don't remember their monikers.

Cheers!!

Dennis3D:


Bros, people have spoken so much ill words against the architect here. I would advise let the client sort it out with him by reviewing the design with him over again before bringing it here.

From what I have observed here, clients here are always right. Vendors, contractors and other workers are always wrong. No matter how they present their case.

Most of the people writing already did so in their own accord whether justifiable or not. So I will leave it at that. This place is a faceless community where everyone volunteers to help and assist each other in one way or the other.

In my opinion, I don't think the forum in recent has been fair on both a service provider and a service receiver.

The question remains “Are those reviews right or wrong?”

- Will the lobby be dark or not?

It’s just a matter of presenting your defense on why the architect is right and why everyone complaining about the design are wrong.
The client brought the design here for review and everyone has the right to express their mind.

It’s not about the people but the design.

n3xt:


Sir, that’s why a novice has engaged a learned professional.

An architect should know that having 5 doors in kitchen cum laundry would cost the client more. He should know that having too many walls will affect air circulation. He should understand having large windows to take advantage of natural lighting.

All the best architects on this platform that I’ve worked with knew what it takes to get past me. I’ve been drafting since the age of 10.

You are on point but..

Like we all know design is a collaborative effort between the client and the architect.

A client supposed to know what they want, considering the lifestyle they want, the purpose of the build , the family etc.. if they want to have a home office etc. Then Oga architect will put those dreams down on paper throwing in advise where necessary and the builder will bring the "clients dream house" to reality.

My point on the previous quote and my examples where based on clients that did not participate on the "corroborative efforts " then blame themselves or the architect at the end.

Dennis3D:

I just updated the thread last night.
Feel free to view...
https://www.nairaland.com/5955403/new-4-bedroom-duplex-swimming

Yes Sir. Been there now... I have been busy with "work from home" business. Nice progress.

Hajji M.

QSFemi:
I'm a quantity surveyor so I know what you're talking about.

I need your whatsApp number sir

Dennis3D:


Nicely stated.
I wonder how people jump into conclusions here so fast. Reducing the participatory time and essence of people who ought to voice out where need be. I just read a member saying FIRE the architect. Really, just like that? What happens to asking him reasons for his design and if not convinced, ask him to change it. I don't like the way some people talk here seriously. That someone world for you doesn't mean you shouldn't respect the person at all. Some comments are not necessary, pls all concerned should take note of that.

That's why personally i involve clients in plan reviews of at least two times or three before final conclusions. Everyone's opinions are fine but be constructive other than insultive.

Thanks.

Dennis3D feel free to call me out directly when you’re ready and if you are up to it. So we can hash things out. I know you’re still bothered because I called out your staircase with convoluted landing.

I advised the OP to fire the architect. My opinion and is based on what the OP wrote. You have yours I have mine.

Badgers14:


You are on point but..

Like we all know design is a collaborative effort between the client and the architect.

A client supposed to know what they want, considering the lifestyle they want, the purpose of the build , the family etc.. if they want to have a home office etc. Then Oga architect will put those dreams down on paper throwing in advise where necessary and the builder will bring the "clients dream house" to reality.

My point on the previous quote and my examples where based on clients that did not participate on the "corroborative efforts " then blame themselves or the architect at the end.

Here’s from my first build here on Nairaland. The client and the architect have finalized the design and are ready to move to site before sending me the plans. I did a redesign and below is my review:

1. 3025mm is just 9ft (a standard bed is 6ft, while kingsize is 7 - 8ft) and that's too small for a study not to talk of Master Bedroom. The new Master bedroom is spacious and well ventilated now with a private terrace overlooking the front yard.

2. I see no reason having another toilet in the family living room upstair when all the rooms are en-suite. I believe the family lounge is private. All guests stays on the ground floor and uses the visitors toilet downstair. 6 toilets in a 4 bedroom house is a waste of space and resources.

3. In this revised design, the family room is the first thing you see at the landing of the stair on the upper floor. I think that makes more sense. Having a private terrace for the family room is not a bad idea either, its about bringing the outdoor inside. I don't like it when you can't have a feel of the outside world from the comfort of your living areas.

4. I really don't know what the architect is trying to achieve but 1375mm lobby (less than 5ft) is too small for the stair landing, 3 room doors. I can only imagine how you'll move stuffs into the rooms when moving-in.

5. The house needs breathing space and cross ventilation. The lobby lacks one which means you'll constantly need fresh air in the lobby space. Imagine when all doors are locked.

6. Master Bathroom in the center: truth be told, there'll always be one issue to deal with especially in the bathroom. The plumbing pipe may leak or the drain may block. it will be near impossible to fix problem in the master bath as there'll be too many bends to deal with. One major problem here is the design may cause damp on the living room ceiling downstair when there's a leak. Best design, have your baths close to the external walls.

I came up with a new design and Ihebrooke was engaged to flesh it up and come up with a 3D design. That was our first job together.

The first architect was a Project Director in one of the most popular estate in Lagos.
You know I’ll mention names if you want it.

I think I took over about 3 other projects from him that we had to redesign all over.

Nettuno:
Greetings experts in the house.

Please what could be the cause of the cracks on this wall. Construction is still on going. Just finished the Parapet and about to do wood work/roofing.

What might be the best way to solve this crack already showing? Thank you for any help/advice.

In my opinion it’s the foundation/German floor.

The gap got increasingly wider towards the top.

n3xt:


Here’s from my first build here on Nairaland. The client and the architect have finalized the design and are ready to move to site before sending me the plans. I did a redesign and below is my review:

I came up with a new design and Ihebrooke was engaged to flesh it up and come up with a 3D design.

The first architect was a Project Director in one of the most popular estate in Lagos.

I think I took over about 3 other projects from him that we had to redesign all over.

It’s not a bad idea to have other eyes critique plans. No one but an egoist will have issues.

I bought what I still believe was a fantastic detached bungalow plan from Darynex on here (the fourth plan from him).

My builder looked at it and voice his opinion about some challenges. I called a local architect to come in and without telling him anything he saw the same challenge and we made the changes.

Only a fool will think he knows it all and can’t be critiqued. If I hire you, tell you what I want or don’t want and you go off script then I’ll terminate our relationship. No time. There’s hundreds of thousands of architects in Nigeria than to stick to one that doesn’t listen or has a god complex.

Question for rental flat owners.

Where did you locate the prepaid meters, centrally or by the units?

For those with solar power, where did you place the equipment, inside the unit or outside?

I thank you in advance.

n3xt:
Bungalow Lovers

Here’s something simple for starters and retirees.

#designs #inspiration

Looks nice but those high steps have defeated the purpose. By the time you finished climbing that much steps, your are halfway into your room upstairs.

Talking of bungalow at old age, first you have to think of being alive to such old age that you cannot be able to climb stairs. For that, you have to think security first with an eye on old age when planning your residential.

So knowing that it would be easier to breach security and enter into a bungalow than it would for a duplex, going for duplex if the option is there will make more sense.

It would be fair while you are still young, strong, capable, and exposed, to live safe, enjoy the security, the ambience, and view of your duplex from top floor balcony while it last.

When you survive all other exposures and live to such old age you arent capable of climbing stairs, well you may then chose to relocate to your guestroom as your bedroom or transform your living room and dinning as a palatial ensuit Senior Bedroom.

While you plan your build, spare a thought for your aged period. Remember to include a wheelchair accessible ramp at the entrance. You may be on motorised wheelchair.

mufutau55:


Se you go secretly share the plan?

Hajji M.

Hopefully, doing some edits right now.

n3xt:



The question remains “Are those reviews right or wrong?”

- Will the lobby be dark or not?

It’s just a matter of presenting your defense on why the architect is right and why everyone complaining about the design are wrong.
The client brought the design here for review and everyone has the right to express their mind.

It’s not about the people but the design.

Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. I tagged mine, my opinion. I hope you didn't skip that. I am not against anyone's opinion. It's a free world.

Nettuno:
Greetings experts in the house.

Please what could be the cause of the cracks on this wall. Construction is still on going. Just finished the Parapet and about to do wood work/roofing.

What might be the best way to solve this crack already showing? Thank you for any help/advice.

If that's a joint. Introduce pillars to it. And possibly chain the exterior with 12mm reinforcement to avoid those cracks from reoccurring.

EgunMogaji2:


Dennis3D feel free to call me out directly when you’re ready and if you are up to it. So we can hash things out. I know you’re still bothered because I called out your staircase with convoluted landing.

I advised the OP to fire the architect. My opinion and is based on what the OP wrote. You have yours I have mine.

With respect sir.
I don't have to hash words out with anyone.
I barely have time for that now.

Your opinion remains yours.
Mine remains mine.
Thanks.

Mayor78:


Looks nice but those high steps have defeated the purpose. By the time you finished climbing that much steps, your are halfway into your room upstairs.

Talking of bungalow at old age, first you have to think of being alive to such old age that you cannot be able to climb stairs. For that, you have to think security first with an eye on old age when planning your residential.

So knowing that it would be easier to breach security and enter into a bungalow than it would for a duplex, going for duplex if the option is there will make more sense.

It would be fair while you are still young, strong, capable, and exposed, to live safe, enjoy the security, the ambience, and view of your duplex from top floor balcony while it last.

When you survive all other exposures and live to such old age you arent capable of climbing stairs, well you may then chose to relocate to your guestroom as your bedroom or transform your living room and dinning as a palatial ensuit Senior Bedroom.

While you plan your build, spare a thought for your aged period.

Baba, I’ve had both for years now but I’ve been living in the bungalow side.

My building has a very large frontal balcony on the upper floor but I’ve not so keen to use it. You’ll see me more at the large porch in the ground floor than the upper floor.

As for security, it has never been an issue of concern for me.

Maybe it’s me tho.

Dennis3D:


Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. I tagged mine, my opinion. I hope you didn't skip that. I am not against anyone's opinion. It's a free world.

I understand. Your opinion is on what other people have said about the design.

More like a “we” against “them”

Well understood bro!

Mayor78:


Looks nice but those high steps have defeated the purpose. By the time you finished climbing that much steps, your are halfway into your room upstairs.

Talking of bungalow at old age, first you have to think of being alive to such old age that you cannot be able to climb stairs. For that, you have to think security first with an eye on old age when planning your residential.

So knowing that it would be easier to breach security and enter into a bungalow than it would for a duplex, going for duplex if the option is there will make more sense.

It would be fair while you are still young, strong, capable, and exposed, to live safe, enjoy the security, the ambience, and view of your duplex from top floor balcony while it last.

When you survive all other exposures and live to such old age you arent capable of climbing stairs, well you may then chose to relocate to your guestroom as your bedroom or transform your living room and dinning as a palatial ensuit Senior Bedroom.

While you plan your build, spare a thought for your aged period. Remember to include a wheelchair accessible ramp at the entrance. You may be on motorised wheelchair.

Very well written.

I was Mr. Bungalow before I moved back home. I now know it’s duplex for me for safety. It’s makes for much easier living to turn the entire top floor into a safe zone than my safe room downstairs.

For the diasporans, try to do more planning while on the ground. Mist of my plans that were made in the comfort of the USA has been realigned today fit the reality on the ground.

One neighbor here was robbed. They woke up to find out that they slept all through a burglary. Money kept amin the same room they were in and electronics were taken. The 3 Rottweilers slept too and vet had to attend to those as they were comatose. Was it voodoo or some sort of sleeping gas? I don’t know but I think if it was a duplex the perps would have had a tougher time.

EgunMogaji2:


Very well written.

I was Mr. Bungalow before I moved back home. I now know it’s duplex for me for safety. It’s makes for much easier living to turn the entire top floor into a safe zone than my safe room downstairs.

For the diasporans, try to do more planning while on the ground. Mist of my plans that were made in the comfort of the USA has been realigned today fit the reality on the ground.

One neighbor here was robbed. They woke up to find out that they slept all through a burglary. Money kept amin the same room they were in and electronics were taken. The 3 Rottweilers slept too and vet had to attend to those as they were comatose. Was it voodoo or some sort of sleeping gas? I don’t know but I think if it was a duplex the perps would have had a tougher time.

Most likely voodoo... It happens all the time and I don't think it would be any different if the building is a bungalow or a duplex, I remember one time an entire street with security gates was robbed and no one noticed until the following morning

EgunMogaji2:


Very well written.

I was Mr. Bungalow before I moved back home. I now know it’s duplex for me for safety. It’s makes for much easier living to turn the entire top floor into a safe zone than my safe room downstairs.

For the diasporans, try to do more planning while on the ground. Mist of my plans that were made in the comfort of the USA has been realigned today fit the reality on the ground.

One neighbor here was robbed. They woke up to find out that they slept all through a burglary. Money kept amin the same room they were in and electronics were taken. The 3 Rottweilers slept too and vet had to attend to those as they were comatose. Was it voodoo or some sort of sleeping gas? I don’t know but I think if it was a duplex the perps would have had a tougher time.

Here’s what has worked for me over the years.

- I’m the last building in the lane so no one have any business after my plot.

-There’s 30 ft setback to my right and front and the next building on my left is mine. That keeps strangers at bay. If I can’t see you, someone will definitely see you from afar.

- I’m not sharing walls with neighbors

- There are motion sensor alarms around.

- The setback between the building and the fence is almost 30ft.

- No security, no dog but motion sensor lights at the gate.

- My backyard is a swamp. Not an escape route.

- I always preach to the bad boys and I’m not living a flamboyant life.

- Lastly, God is my surest security. My gate do not have locks. I’ve never locked my gate for once.

Although, it won’t open without a manual override.


_____
Pic: Motion sensor at the gatehouse. I have 8 and they’re very annoying when they are triggered. They don’t sleep, neither can voodoo work on them.

Naija Way

chiefbuchiV12:

Most likely voodoo... It happens all the time and I don't think it would be any different if the building is a bungalow or a duplex, I remember one time an entire street with security gates was robbed and no one noticed until the following morning

You’re very correct.

The day I feared these guys was when they robbed a community bank at Ilugun. They removed a very heavy vault door and the question people kept asking was “How did that happen without a crane?”

EgunMogaji2:


Impossible.

You can quote me anywhere

low income earners no go fit build house again for Naija

EgunMogaji2:


Very well written.

I was Mr. Bungalow before I moved back home. I now know it’s duplex for me for safety. It’s makes for much easier living to turn the entire top floor into a safe zone than my safe room downstairs.

For the diasporans, try to do more planning while on the ground. Mist of my plans that were made in the comfort of the USA has been realigned today fit the reality on the ground.

One neighbor here was robbed. They woke up to find out that they slept all through a burglary. Money kept amin the same room they were in and electronics were taken. The 3 Rottweilers slept too and vet had to attend to those as they were comatose. Was it voodoo or some sort of sleeping gas? I don’t know but I think if it was a duplex the perps would have had a tougher time.

na so Dem steal my motorcycle earlier this year. There are two dogs in the compound but none made a sound.

michlins:
na so Dem steal my motorcycle earlier this year. There are two dogs in the compound but none made a sound.

Those are aboki selling scraps.

They can pack/put your car inside a sack without you knowing.

Pls i hv a question concerning fees to be paid in estate where am building in sangotedo Ajah . It goes like this ; development levy 250k , security and road levy 300k ,electricity 480k or u choose the second like for 350k .
Its an estate formed by a group of people as land was sold by omonile hence they call it CDA , community development association.
Please how much does ur estate charge on this fees as a new home owner ? Do u pay development levy and road levy differently ?

Good morning all the boss in house.... We are here to serve you better .... For quality plumbing work ... You can check our previous work....
Thanks

EgunMogaji2:


It’s not a bad idea to have other eyes critique plans. No one but an egoist will have issues.

I bought what I still believe was a fantastic detached bungalow plan from Darynex on here (the fourth plan from him).

My builder looked at it and voice his opinion about some challenges. I called a local architect to come in and without telling him anything he saw the same challenge and we made the changes.

Only a fool will think he knows it all and can’t be critiqued. If I hire you, tell you what I want or don’t want and you go off script then I’ll terminate our relationship. No time. There’s hundreds of thousands of architects in Nigeria than to stick to one that doesn’t listen or has a god complex.

this is something many people don't understand in life. No matter how good you are, someone is twice better. Be open to criticism and suggestions. You no go die