Get exactly what you want. Working with an architect results in a custom project, tailored to your individual needs and the specific parameters of the site.
Architects are trained to solve problems in creative ways. With their broad knowledge of design and construction, architects can show you alternatives and options you might never think of on your own.
Good design sells. A well-designed house has a higher resale value, a well-designed store draws customers and a well-designed office creates an inspiring, productive environment.
An architect looks out for your best interest. An architect acts as your agent in all aspects of the project.
Things to keep in mind prior to hiring an architect:
Our most successful projects involve full collaboration and communication among the architect, owner and contractor. Early in the process, we meet as a team to clearly define the goals, responsibilities, scope and budget of the project. This collaborative effort and open communication results in an efficient process, money saved, and ultimately a better project.
Architecture encompasses many specialty fields; the architect knows a little about each trade and specialty, and consults with the appropriate experts in order to design the project to the owner's needs. The architect will design the project, specify materials, and coordinate with the consultants and contractor. The contractor is the expert on construction and cost-estimating the project. The engineer is responsible for determining the structural calculations and loads of the project. The interior designer will coordinate the furniture, fabric and window treatments. The landscape architect will design and coordinate planting materials and pools.
When setting a budget for construction, an owner can expect to pay a minimum of $175.00 per square foot. Typically, the average is $200 to $250 per square foot, depending on complexity of the project, materials selected and the site constraints.
While we always attempt to design within your budget, we are not contractors or cost estimators. For definitive budget and pricing, the services of a qualified contractor, cost estimator or construction manager should be retained early on in the schematic design phase.
Architects' fees can vary from 10% to 20% of the construction cost, depending on the scope of the services provided. On average, the fee for a "bare bones" permit set is about 10% of the construction cost. A custom residential project can range from 12% to 15% of the construction cost.
In addition to a project's up-front costs, it's important as an owner to also look at long-term maintenance costs of the selected building materials. For instance, an asphalt shingle is a cost-effective roofing material, yet needs to be repaired and replaced. Metal roofing, on the other hand, costs more up front, but its long-term maintenance cost is 0.
Typical construction time for a kitchen remodel is about two months. An addition can take four to six months. New construction can be nine months to a year. These are estimated timeframes and don't include design and permit time. Your selected contractor will be able to determine a more precise schedule based on your project.
Building faster is not always better. The end product is most successful when the client, architect and contractor are given enough time to think things through, refine decisions and details, and execute the work carefully.
Be prepared to accept some trade-offs if you'd like the construction completed quickly and/or inexpensively. A project on a tight timeline may cost more money, or may suffer in quality. A project on a tight budget may take longer to build, or may require lower-quality materials.
How to prepare for your first meeting with an architect:
Do your research! Before meeting with an architect, give some thought to what you want and come prepared with ideas, images and examples of what you like. Are you drawn more toward traditional architecture or modern spaces? Take a look at architecture and design magazines such as Metropolitan Home, Dwell, House and Garden and Elle Décor; rip out images you like and bring these along to the meeting. This kind of preparation helps us better understand your preferences and needs, and ultimately results in a better project and more efficient process for everyone.
Think about how you live now, and how you might live differently in the new space. Ask yourself these questions:
How long will you be living in this home?
What is you favorite part of the site?
Where do you spend most of your time? In the kitchen, the family room, office?
Do you like big open spaces or small intimate ones?
How do you think of public and private spaces?
Would you like the master on the first floor or upstairs?
Do you plan on having children in this house?
Do you entertain often? Do you entertain for large groups, or small groups?
