Volunteer Architectural Advice

[Oiverbotel]

I'm seeking a volunteer organisation where people offer their services for certain projects (if it's one that interests them). My hopes are rather high though. I'm looking for an architect who might be willing to help us design a small hotel/lodge for a charity. I realise this is a rather extreme 'wish' but I'm hopeful someone here might know of where we could at least start. Thank you!

[EcclesCake]

The Cranbrook Trust is an organisation that offers professional services to charities. I know they have project managers and accountants on their books, perhaps they have architects too. HTH.

[EcclesCake]

Mmm, just googled it and can't find it anywhere. I might be out of date as it's ten years since I was involved and it might have folded.

[Oiverbotel]

Thank you for your kind research. I found something similar in the States, but nothing here. I'm scratching my head a bit. I did try speaking with the VSO but they really weren't able to offer any help. Nevertheless, thank you for your help!

[Count-A-Strong]

Why don't you contact the RIBA?

http://www.architectu...UTF-8&q=+charity#1051

[Oiverbotel]

Thank you! Whilst the link didn't work, I realised what the 'RIBA' was. I will write to them to see whether they might have a benevolent group or similar who might be able to help. Thank you for that suggestion! Fr. B+

[buildersmate]

Why do you need something special designed?
Why not consider something from a timberframe or other prefabricated manufacturer. These types of stuctures are extremely flexible (they are not just x by y in size, and the organisation essentially custom-designs to the customers requirement).
With these sorts of organisations, the design is built-into the manufacturing cost. Such organisations also assist with Planning Consent liaison.

[bushbaby_de]

You may qualify for help from Planning Aid http://www.rtpi.org.uk/planningaid/

[Prudentia]

As a retired architectural consultant and surveyor, I may be interested, at 63 with over 45 years experience running my own business, and time on my hands I may be interested.

[Prudentia]

I may well be interested, but you must acknowledge my interest this evening, I fly off on holiday tomorrow.

[Oiverbotel]

Good evening Mark! Indeed I AM interested! I've only just come in. Apologies. Can you please write me at: [email protected] ? I would be pleased to write you and explain what our needs are. I'm most grateful, even if you find you cannot help. Just the fact that you cared enough to try means a great deal and you may even know someone who could. Thank you SO very much! Fr B+

[Oiverbotel]

Good evening Builders and Bushb...thank you for your kind advice. This is a project outside of the UK, but on the continent, involving children in crisis.

All of you have provided wonderful advice and guidance - thank you very much indeed!

I have today written to RIBA (thanks Count) and I'm hoping I got back in time to hear fro Prudentia. Again, thank you everyone. I have been surprised by the kind and plentiful responses. I'm most grateful to you all! Fr B+

[joko]

why not approach some architectural students? im sure many would love to gain work experience in designing a genuine building as opposed to theory etc...to be sure its done well you could perhaps gather a small group or approach the college an ask if it could be used as part of their coutse work...

[Oiverbotel]

Joko, that's a wonderful idea! Thank you very much! I'm not quite sure who to contact, but I'll give it some thought tomorrow and ask around. I'm afraid I got in too late to reach Prudentia..very sad indeed. But I'm nevertheless very grateful to him and to you all for your great advice. This has been an amazing exercise!