Many people who want to build a new home or addition struggle with whether or not they should hire an architect. Building a home is expensive, and if an architect isn't required, why hire one? There are many good reasons to hire an architect, but the number one reason why you should hire one is this:
The construction process is complicated and expensive,
and you need someone with experience to guide you.
Builders have a hard job-- they have to make a vision a reality, and do it on budget. But for builders to do their job, they really need a clearly defined project scope. For smaller projects this is easy, but the bigger the project gets the harder it is pin down. While some builders may offer a few stock plans with their standard finish package, helping you design a space to suit your needs is simply not the builder's role, and they will usually refer you to an architect to draft up plans that they can use to file for permit.
Architects can be much more than just a drafting service though: they can can guide you through the entire design process from start to finish and be your agent through the construction process to make sure you are getting exactly what you want. Construction is confusing, expensive, and exhausting, and the surest way to lose money is to plan inadequately.
Documentation means clearer expectations
Ideally, it's best to bring an architect on board at the very beginning. Before you even start designing or hire a contractor, you need to know what you can and can't do. Architects can help you interpret confusing local zoning codes and make sure you can actually build your project. If you need a variance, an architect can provide you the drawings and renderings you may need to get through a hearing and even present in front of the zoning board of appeals for you.
From there, an architect can guide you in designing a home that suits your unique needs. This is the role of the architect most people are familiar with-- the person who helps you design a custom home. But while designing a home seems fun, the process is incredibly important because it allows you to set expectations and document them. This documentation is the basis for the contract with your builder, and the more you define, the more certain you can be of what the final product will look like and how much it will cost.
Your agent during construction
When you're at a place where you're happy with the design, architects can help bid your project to multiple contractors and compare them. Architects will know what to look for and what questions to ask when one builder comes in with a bid that is much lower or much higher than another. The process itself is a good way to find out what isn't clear and what needs to be communicated better.
Once the project is in construction, architects can visit the construction site regularly to check in. There will often be an ongoing dialogue between the architect and contractor, and depending on your contract (AIA contracts are recommended) the architect may actually need to approve work before the builder can get paid. This can take a ton of stress and pressure off the homeowner, and is a great way of making sure you are getting what you asked for.
Construction (as you will find) never goes perfectly. Nothing ever does, and it's almost guaranteed that something will happen in the field that requires quick, informed decision making. Architects are used to solving problems during construction and can react quickly when your project requires it.
Conclusion
If you want to spend your money wisely and arrive at an end result that matches your expectations, architects are an invaluable investment. Working with an architect will give you the guidance, provide certainty, and take the pressure of a complicated process off your shoulders.
Patternbook Architecture & Design is an architecture firm located in Beverly Massachusetts. We specialize in residential design, and draw our inspiration from historical New England homes.
Need an architect? Not sure?
Starting a project is no small undertaking, and we're prepared to help you every step of the way. If you're not sure how to get started, we'd be happy to meet with you, hear about your project, and offer some design advice.
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