...FAQs
There are many questions that arise when one contemplates working with an architect. Therefore we have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions. Hopefully our answers to some of these questions will help you understand what an architect can do for you.
How much will a set of plans cost?
This is usually the first question that is asked and is probably the most difficult to answer. In a nutshell – you pay for what you get. Architectural fees are based on the amount of work that the job entails, such as the number of schemes you wish to see, the number of problems that need to be solved, and the amount of detail that needs to be documented. Each job is unique and each has a different set of problems. As architects, we are not only designers and drafters, but problem solvers. For instance, if you have a difficult site we work to find creative ways to solve such things as access, sun exposure and wind conditions. We can assist you so that mistakes and regrets can be minimized – on the drawing board and before construction commences.
Do I really need an architect?
You do not need an architect if you can answer NO to the following questions…
…Do you want a unique design that satisfies your specific requirements?
…Do you want to save trees and take advantage of the lay of the land and the views?
…Do you plan on reusing any existing furniture and/or equipment in your new building?
…Do you want your money to be put into the design and construction of the building rather than into the contractor’s pocket?
How does working with an architect differ from working with a general contractor?
If you hire a contractor to design and construct a building, the cost of the design is usually buried within the cost of the construction – it is not free. Some contractors will give you a price to design and construct the building, but in order to increase their profit, will lower the quality of the finishes and simplify the details so that more of the construction dollars end up in their pocket and not in the structure. If you hire an architect, you know exactly what you are paying for the design of the building as well as the construction documents. Additionally, an architect typically specifies the quality level for all materials and may draw non-standard details that become part of the contract documents. The construction documents are then bid to several different contractors, allowing you to select the lowest price with the quality level you desire. Thus, there are no surprises that allow the contractor to lower the quality of the building. It goes without saying that because of this clarity within an architectural set of drawings, some contractors do not typically want an architect involved. They want to be able to fudge where need be in order to increase their profit. It is interesting to note that this is one of the reasons an architect is most always involved in commercial projects - most of the costs are noted and disclosed to the owner and budgets are met.
Why should I hire an architect when the county tells me that all I need is a structural engineer?
Simply put – an architect designs the building and a structural engineer designs how the building should be built in order to meet all the structural codes. If you already have a design and the required drawings are complete then all you may need are the services of a structural engineer. However, if all you have is a schematic drawing, but are in need of plans and elevations and sections drawn to scale, you will probably need the services of an architect.
I have a set of house plans that I ordered online, but I would like to make a few changes. What will it cost?
Plans purchased online do not address specific needs and/or specific site conditions. We can use these plans as a starting point, but specific plans that address specific requirements will need to be drawn. It is sometimes easier to start from scratch with a list of your specific requirements, rather than trying to alter generic plans that do not address your needs. Care needs to be taken to assure that the end result does not look like an add-on or bad remodel job. Rooflines are key and are usually the most difficult aspect to deal with when working with and altering generic plans.
Why can you not give me an exact cost for your fees?
We do our best to estimate fees to a maximum amount. However, as the project progresses and you refine your requirements, changes may be necessary. Unknown and unforeseen site conditions may also surface resulting in necessary revisions to the drawings.
I need the drawings in a month...can you meet my deadline?
We do our best to meet your schedule. However, timing may depend on several issues…such as how far along the schematics are and if there are code related issues that need to be addressed. We need to make sure that all considerations have been taken into account and your requirements have been well thought out in order to minimize mistakes and regrets after construction. We are not just draftsmen that one might hire to do a set of drawings. Architects are problem solvers as well as designers. While we do produce construction documents as part of our services, there is much to be done prior to producing them.
I want to build the house myself...will you work with me?
We work with many individuals that want to build their dream home themselves. Typically, this is not a problem. However, the building department wants to make sure that during construction, building codes are met. Our construction drawings comply with building codes which facilitates your job.
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