In Pakistan, the home-building process often feels like managing a long list of tasks, meetings, and decisions. From selecting the right plot to choosing the perfect paint colour, there’s a lot to think about. But one of the most important choices you’ll make is deciding how your construction team is set up.
More people today are choosing a model where their architect and builder work under one roof. This means the design and construction team belong to the same company or organisation. It’s not just a trend — it’s a working style that offers clear benefits, especially when you’re aiming for top architectural services. In this blog, we’ll explain what this means, how it works, and what you can expect from this approach in simple and practical terms.
What Does “Under One Roof” Mean?
In Pakistan, most people hire an architect first to design their house. After the drawings are complete, they hire a separate builder or thekedar to do the construction work. These two professionals often don’t meet, and the client is stuck in the middle, coordinating between them.
But when the architect and builder are part of the same team — working under one roof — it means both design and construction are managed together. One company or setup is responsible for everything from planning the layout to handing over the keys.
How Is This Different from the Traditional Way?
Let’s look at how the two approaches work:
| Traditional Method | Architect & Builder Under One Roof |
| Architect and builder are separate | Both belong to the same company/team |
| Client manages communication | Communication happens internally |
| Misunderstandings are common | Better coordination and clarity |
| Delays due to approval issues | Faster decisions and changes |
| Design changes may cost extra | Easier adjustments during work |
This new model is becoming more popular in cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi, especially among people looking for top architectural services where time, cost, and quality matter equally.
What Are the Advantages of Working Under One Roof?
Smooth Communication
When both teams are in-house, there’s no need to repeat your instructions to different people. Everyone is on the same page from day one. For example, if you want to shift a wall or change the window size, the architect and builder can decide together without delays.
Time-Saving
Construction delays are common in Pakistan due to late decisions and miscommunication. But in a combined team, the architect knows exactly what the builder is doing — and vice versa. This makes the process quicker and more efficient.
Budget Control
Unexpected costs usually happen when a builder doesn’t fully understand the design. But if both teams work together, the builder can flag cost issues early, and the architect can make changes accordingly. It helps keep the project within budget.
Better Site Supervision
When the design team and construction team are connected, the architect often visits the site more regularly. This ensures that the design is followed properly during construction.
Quality Results
A house built with design and construction in harmony looks better, feels more comfortable, and functions well in everyday use. Small things like lighting points, door placements, and ventilation are handled more thoughtfully.
What Role Does the Architect Play in This Setup?
An architect is not just someone who draws maps or house plans. Their role is much wider. In this setup, their work includes:
- Understanding your needs and lifestyle
- Planning the layout of rooms, windows, doors, etc.
- Making 2D and 3D drawings
- Selecting materials and finishes
- Coordinating with the builder for structural work
- Visiting the site for supervision
This extended role is common in top architectural services, where the architect stays involved until the final touches are done.
What About the Builder’s Role?
The builder, or thekedar, is responsible for actual construction. Their duties include:
- Laying foundations
- Brickwork and concrete work
- Plumbing and electrical work
- Roofing and plaster
- Managing labour and site material
When the architect is part of the same team, the builder works with clear instructions. There’s less confusion, and tasks are completed on time with better finish.
Is It More Expensive?
It might seem like it costs more, but actually, it often saves money. When you hire separately, poor communication, rework, and errors increase your overall spending. In a combined setup, tasks are planned better, waste is reduced, and mistakes are avoided. Many people who use top architectural services notice this cost-saving in the long run.
Local Experience in Pakistan
In Pakistan, this model is still growing but gaining popularity quickly, especially among people building their own homes. In areas like Bahria Town, DHA, or newly developed societies in Lahore and Islamabad, more firms offer complete packages where the architect, structural engineer, builder, and even interior designer work as one team.
This setup is also useful for busy people who don’t have time to visit the site daily. With one-point contact, everything is managed smoothly without bothering the client again and again.
Things to Keep in Mind
If you decide to go for a combined team, here’s what you should look for:
- Ask for past project photos or site visits
- Check how often the architect visits the site
- Make sure the design team and construction team sit together
- Confirm the timeline and budget from the start
- Read the agreement carefully before signing
These small steps can help you get better results and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
When your architect and builder work under one roof, the home-building journey becomes much simpler, more organised, and stress-free. From design to delivery, everything is handled by a team that understands both aesthetics and structure.
This working style supports better results, fewer delays, cost control, and a smooth experience. And if you’re aiming for top architectural services, this approach is often the hidden secret behind their success.
In a country like Pakistan, where construction involves many small decisions and challenges, having your architect and builder as part of one team is not just a modern idea — it’s a practical solution that saves time, reduces tension, and leads to better homes.
