5 reason to hire an architect

In today’s internet savvy and DYI world, an architect is seen as an extravagance, maybe even as a crutch. With all the you tube videos out there, people seem to think that being their own architect is as easy as baking a pie. Sure, if you have a clear idea of your design, you know how to source all components, you understand local building codes, you have the know how to create a set of plans, you have the skill to communicate building details and you have the time to accomplish all that, then yes Go for it. But the question remains: why would you? Here are some reasons why hiring a professional architect can be an asset to your project.

1. Local zoning, planning and code requirements

One of the most difficult aspects of remodels and new construction is to know the local zoning, planning and construction codes. Unfortunately, not one city is like the other, and even within city boundaries, different overlays apply. So if you see your neighbor adding a roof deck to his house does not mean you can do it as well. Even if you are aware that there are restrictions to your property, and you have done your part researching them, chances are you have not gotten the complete picture. A good architect will be invaluable in assisting you with adhering the design to the local codes and restrictions. An oversight can be costly, in time and money spent, and you need to have a professional at your side to lay out a comprehensive and functional plan based on local restrictions.

2. Making good design and space planning choices

Sometimes, homeowners know that their home has a quirky lay out, but they have gotten so used to the space that they cannot really see an easy solution at hand. Most often, people just want something bigger with higher ceilings and more light, but the only way they figure this can be achieved is by adding on to the house. An architect can redirect thinking and open up new ideas on how funky corners and ungainly hallways can be incorporated within a new plan, so an addition might not always be necessary to get the desired result. Establishing good circulation, assigning purpose to spaces and creating light and airy rooms are all the components you need to shift a quirky, uneasy living space into a peaceful and tranquil oasis. Of course, in case there is the need to add a master suite or in law quarters to the space, an architect will apply the same skill set to effortlessly combine the old with the new.

3. Making good building choices

A major remodel is a monumental task. Numerous decisions will have to be made, and many times the average homeowner does not have all the knowledge required to make educated, time saving and cost saving choices. An architect has much more experience dealing with logical placements of mechanical, electrical and plumbing elements. They can also serve as a go between and advisor who can stir the project towards functionality and design. For example, sometimes a contractor will walk the easy route in placing mechanical components, but they may interfere with the aesthetics of the design. An upfront design meeting with contractor and architect will eliminate frustrations and costly mistakes.

4. Drawing a comprehensive set of plans, bidding and budget analysis

In order to pull at permit, you need a comprehensive set of plans of your project. Maybe, in the old days, you could get away with a quick hand drawn sketch, but those times have long past. Today, you need an extensive set that adheres to and notes all current buildings codes and rules and regulations. Right here, do yourself a favor, do not attempt this by yourself. I had a client who downloaded a simple drawing program. He used that to create some rudimentary drawings of his project , thinking that is all he needed. He was laughed right out of the city. Right or wrong, these days you will need a professional set of drawings to present to the city’s building department. This set serves as the ultimate guide to your project. Not only will it pass the permitting process, but it also aides considerably in the bidding process. Most good contractors demand a city approved set of plans to bid your job. The better the plans, the tighter the bid and that amounts to less change orders, less frustration and an overall better adherence to the timeline. All these components equate to one result; an efficiently designed project that has a clear, budget and a well run job site will amount to better cost savings on your end. An architect is an invaluable tool in making all this happen for you and the money you pay in advance is money well spent.

5. Jobsite supervision

Once construction begins, a myriad of daily questions come up as well. A good contractor carefully examines the plans and ask clarifying questions, or he recommends different solutions to design challenges. Overall, a job site is fluid and it takes a lot of coordination and communications to get the project completed according to the visions and design of the owner. An architect knows the plans, the design and material choices inside and out. He can answer complex questions and he has the research capacity and building intelligence to listen to new suggestions and alternative material specifications. At the least, an architect checks the job site for adherence of plans. That means, an architect makes sure the contractor does not cut corners and he will built as the plans indicate. An owner mostly does not have the time, patience or know how to spot all the mistakes, irregularities and oversights that come with building a house, or even remodeling a room. Professional help is greatly recommended. Once again, oversights and mistakes are costly, and the money spent for an architect is well with the peace of mind that comes along with it.

So yes, you may have your own ideas, your own research and your own in pride of achieving the house of your dreams, but an architect is an asset to your aspiration and he can be your most valuable asset to make your dream become reality.