ᐅ Building Permit Approved – What’s Next???

Hello dear forum,

Thank you again for the many responses regarding the floor plan and budget. The planning phase took considerably longer than originally expected, but now the time has come: We have an approved building permit (planning permission), and it’s time to move to the next step.

Our architect was initially contracted only for design phases 1-4. So now the question is how to proceed from here. Four scenarios come to mind, and I would appreciate if anyone has further ideas, opinions, or experiences to share:

1) Hiring the architect from phases 1-4 for the remaining phases
Pros: He is familiar with the project and may have already considered how to continue
Cons: Our collaboration has been somewhat difficult at times due to differing views on the construction approach (design versus function).

2) Hiring a new architect
The question is whether anyone would want to take over an existing project. A fresh perspective might actually be beneficial.

3) Proceeding with a general contractor
Pros: Detailed construction drawings might not be necessary, or could be handled using in-house resources. This initially sounds more cost-effective.

4) Doing everything yourself
Honestly: I don’t feel confident managing all trades at this point, as I still need to acquire technical knowledge :-)
Especially the detailed construction planning seems quite complex.
But: I heard from a heating engineer that he doesn’t even require detailed construction plans—so that might be a waste of money after all…

--> Have I missed anything? Would anyone suggest a fifth option?

Thanks in advance and happy holidays

Best regards,
Johann