How It Works
Hiring An Architect
What Do Architects Do?
Architects are licensed professionals that are responsible for the design of buildings. Architects help clients make choices about their design, produce construction drawings, and coordinate the many different components that may go into a design. When projects are in construction, architects can help ensure that they are being constructed as intended.
How Can An Architect Help Me?
Design a project that suits your needs
With years of design training and expertise, architects can help you find the best solution for your space and your budget. Sometimes your goals may be simple, and other times you may really want to get the feel of the space right and dive into the details. As is often the case, many clients aren’t entirely sure what they want and find that the design process helps them organize and prioritize their project goals.
Communicate your ideas to a builder
The drawings produced by architects are a communication tool. They give your builder a clear understanding of what the project is so that they can price it accurately and build it as intended. The more detailed the drawings, the closer to your vision the project will be.
Provide the necessary documentation for obtaining a building permit
Before construction can start, most municipalities require stamped architectural plans as part of their permitting process. The drawings help explain to the building department exactly what you intend to build. Sometimes municipalities may require you to obtain a variance or a special permit, and Architects can help you navigate the process.
Ensure the project is being constructed as intended.
During construction, architects will be available to answer questions from the builder and help resolve issues that that come up in the field. Architects will make periodic site visits over the course of construction to observe progress.
The Design Process
Initial Meeting
The first step in the design process is meeting with your architect to discuss your project. If the project is an addition or renovation, it usually makes sense to meet on site. If you have a specific idea in mind, it’s also a good idea to share any photos you’ve found online of projects similar to yours. The Architect will take the information from your meeting and draft a proposal that outlines the project. Once you approve and sign the proposal, the project will begin.
Design Phases
Architects break down projects into phases.
PHASE 1 Existing Conditions Documentation
For additions and renovations, the Architect will start by documenting the existing conditions of your house by taking field measurements and photos. This documentation will be used to build base drawings for the Architects use during design.
PHASE 2 Conceptual Design
Based on your input from the initial meeting, the Architect will typically produce a series of design options that seek to meet design needs. The Architect will set up a meeting to review the designs, and incorporate your input into the next round of design. The number of meetings will be outlined in the Architect’s proposal. Throughout the process, the design will evolve from rough sketches and models, to a more specific design. Materials produced from this phase can be used to obtain preliminary pricing from a contractor.
PHASE 3 Construction Documentation
Once a final design scheme has been selected, the Architect will begin producing construction documents. These are the drawings that your contractor will use to determine costs, submit to the building department, and build the project.
PHASE 4 Bidding (optional)
If a contractor has not been selected already, the Architect can assist you in bidding your project out to multiple contractors.
PHASE 5 Construction Administration
Once the project is in construction, the Architect will act as the owner’s advocate. The Architect will answer questions and help resolve issues if they come up on site. The Architect will periodically make site visits to observe the progress of the project.
Let's Make
This Happen
Give us a call or email us to set up a meeting in person or virtually. We'd be happy to help guide you as you begin the process of turning your ideas into reality.