FAQ

Architects' fees in Switzerland are generally calculated as a percentage of the construction cost, according to SIA standards. Depending on the project's complexity, expect to pay between 10% and 15% of the total cost for full architect's services. Specific services such as expert assessments, consultations, or preliminary sketches may also be billed hourly or as a flat fee. At Fabrik42, each quote is tailored to the scope of the specific project.

An architect designs, draws, and coordinates a project in its entirety. A design office handles the technical aspects: structure, energy performance, and regulatory compliance. Fabrik42 combines both under one roof, which avoids wasted time, friction between stakeholders, and guarantees complete coherence of the construction project.

It depends on the canton and the nature of the work. For most new constructions, major extensions, or changes of use, a licensed architect is required to sign the plans submitted to the authorities. In Valais and throughout French-speaking Switzerland, Fabrik42 can quickly confirm whether your construction project requires mandatory professional representation.

A standard residential project, from the initial sketch to the building permit, generally takes between 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity, interactions with authorities, and the specific timelines of each municipality. Construction time is then added to this. Fabrik42 works with a clear schedule from the outset and doesn't promise what it can't deliver.

Not always necessary, but it is strongly recommended whenever the renovation affects the structure or the building envelope, or involves a change of use. In these cases, a plan signed by an architect is required by the authorities. For a major renovation, hiring an architect from the outset is especially helpful to avoid unpleasant surprises during construction.

It all starts with a precise assessment: the condition of the structure, the utilities, the insulation, and the regulatory constraints specific to the area. This is the work Fabrik42 does before designing anything. A well-prepared renovation is a project that unfolds without improvisation.

The first step is to verify the building potential of the plot and the zoning regulations (floor area ratio, building dimensions, setbacks). Next comes the architectural design, followed by the building permit application, and then construction. Each stage has its own timelines and constraints. Fabrik42 supports its clients from the initial site verification right through to the final handover of the keys.

In Valais, building regulations in residential areas depend on the municipal building code and the zoning designation. These regulations define, in particular, the maximum height, the floor area ratio, the distances to property boundaries, and the exterior appearance of buildings. These parameters vary from one municipality to another. Fabrik42, based in Martigny and operating throughout French-speaking Switzerland, is an expert in these local regulations.

Generally, no. Federal land-use planning law protects agricultural areas and prohibits the construction of buildings unrelated to farming. There are strictly defined exceptions. An architect can analyse a plot of land and identify the legal possibilities before any investment.

In Valais, the legal period for a public inquiry is 30 days. The total processing time, from the initial inquiry to the final decision, generally ranges from 3 to 6 months if there are no objections. If an objection is raised, the procedure can take significantly longer. A well-prepared and complete application is the best way to minimise back-and-forth communication with the technical departments.

Building permits in Martigny are issued by the city's urban planning department after review of the technical file and its compliance with the zoning plan. The file includes plans, sections, elevations, a descriptive statement, and administrative documents. Fabrik42, is in regular contact with the technical services of the City of Martigny, and can prepare and submit these files on behalf of its clients.

The official appraiser is mandated by the municipality to assess the market value of properties, particularly in the context of transactions, inheritances, or tax appeals. Fabrik42 is the official appraiser for the City of Martigny, giving its clients direct access to this expertise for any matter requiring a recognised official valuation.

Yes. Under Swiss law, any refusal of a building permit can be appealed to the competent cantonal authority within a period specified in the decision, generally 30 days. It is strongly recommended to seek professional assistance to analyse the reasons for the refusal and prepare a strong appeal.

Property valuations are based on several criteria: location, size, overall condition, potential for development, and the local market. In Valais, prices vary significantly between Martigny, Sion, Verbier, and the surrounding towns. Fabrik42 offers professional valuations that combine market data with an architectural analysis of the property, providing a more accurate picture than a purely statistical estimate.

An estimate is a market valuation used to determine a sale or purchase price. An appraisal is a formal, documented valuation, usable in a legal or tax context. Fabrik42 offers both, with the added value of a dual architectural and real estate perspective.

An architect assesses a property rather differently to a typical estate agent: they see structural constraints, the potential for renovation or conversion, the work to anticipate, and know how to estimate the true cost of a project. Combined with brokerage services, this technical perspective transforms an ordinary transaction into an informed decision.

In Switzerland, brokerage fees are not regulated by law and are freely negotiable. They generally range between 2% and 3% of the sale price. At Fabrik42, the fee structure is clearly presented during the initial consultation.

You, the project owner, are the project manager. The project management assistant is the professional who represents you and defends your interests throughout the project: coordinating contractors, controlling costs, managing deadlines, and validating milestones. In practical terms, this is someone who knows what you don't yet know but need to know.

Whenever a project involves multiple stakeholders, significant financial stakes, or you simply don't have the time to manage the operational aspects yourself, project management assistance (AMO) is particularly valuable for private owners, non-professional developers, and companies constructing or renovating outside their core business.

The architect is responsible for the design and technical oversight of the construction project. The project management consultant (AMO) is responsible for overall coordination in the client's best interest. Both roles can be filled by the same firm, as offered by Fabrik42, thus avoiding conflicts of interest between the designer and the coordinator.

Yes. Fabrik42 operates throughout French-speaking Switzerland and beyond, depending on the nature of the projects. Being based in Martigny is a starting point, not a limitation.

Yes, and that's often the case. 3D visualisation tools, video conferencing, and the ability to manage remote submission processes allow construction or renovation projects to be managed without systematic physical presence. Key stages are carried out in person when relevant, not out of mere formality.