Whether building your dream home, renovating or adding on to your existing home, you should consider engaging an architect to help you realize your dream. An architect who is familiar with your area and licensed in your state can be of significant help. An architect, educated and trained in the technical and aesthetic aspects of building design, can transform your existing house or build a new one in ways you never thought possible. Since residential design is very much dependent on personal taste, knowledge of aesthetics, and budget constraints, it is important to select an architect who understands your requirements and is willing to work towards the client's goals.
Architects can help clarify and refine your building needs through a process called programming. They help define what is to be built and many times present creative solutions the owner might not have ever considered.
The architect works with the client's budget and helps to select materials and finishes that are durable as well as beautiful, saving the client money on maintenance costs. They can also
help reduce fuel bills by incorporating energy efficient design into the building. A well designed home results in a higher resale value.
The architect will help the client manage the project from concept to move-in. He will assist the client in complying with the complex local building codes and zoning laws. He will protect your interest during the construction process by seeing to it that the contractor meets design and material specification requirements.
The architect is a planner by nature. He can help the client look beyond his immediate needs and design with the future in mind as well as looking at present needs.
When hiring an architect, you should have the following materials ready for his review: (1) List of requirements; how many rooms, what kind of rooms, etc. (2) an estimate of how much money you are prepared to spend, and (3) a survey of the property including any deed restrictions, covenants or ordinances particular to your area.
1. Program/Pre-Design Phase: The homeowner and architect discuss requirements and decide what to build considering the owner's needs, wants and budget.
2. Schematic Design Phase: The architect prepares rough sketches that show the concept and general arrangement of the rooms and site. The homeowner approves these sketches prior to going to the next phase.
3. Design Development Phase: The architect refines the design and further iIIustrates other aspects of the design in greater detail.
5. Bidding or Negotiation Phase: The homeowner and architect review the contractors' proposals, making sure that all requirements are met. A binding agreement is then formed between the homeowner and the selected contractor.
6. Construction Administration Phase: The architect can help the homeowner administer the construction contract making sure that the specifications are being met and the laws and codes are adhered to.
In many localities, a one-year warranty period is provided by the contractor covering materials and workmanship. The architect can assist the homeowner in determining what remedial work or other adjustments, if any, the contractor must make in completing the work within the warranty period.
The architect's fees are calculated in a number of ways depending on the complexity and size of the project as well as the services required by the homeowner. Adequate compensation for their service is in your best interest because it defines the type and level of service needed to complete the project.
You should also know that there are design-build companies in some market places. These companies provide both architects and contractors under one roof and have the ability of attending to those special design problems that tend to pop up before or during construction. First, be sure that the company has a licensed, qualified architect on staff. If you elect to this approach, understand that the architect works for the design-build company. His obligation and ability to look out for the homeowner's interest is compromised.
The path to achieving your building goals is paved with challenges and uncertainty. There are hundreds of decisions to be made. With a broad knowledge of building design and construction, your architect can ease the way and help you get the most for your investment. Invest in your dream. Work with an architect.
