Architects & Residential Designers
The house plan is one of the most crucial elements in building the home of your dreams, which is why it is so important to work with an architect or a residential designer for your plans. Depending on your specific expectations, first determine if an architect or a designer is best suited for your project, as each offers different levels of service.
Choosing a residential designer or architect is much the same as choosing a builder. After narrowing the list, set up interviews with a few of your top choices. Armed with your portfolio, show them what you want. Pay special attention to whether that person works with you, helping you expand on your ideas, or whether they try to impose a certain style on you. One area residential designer tells us homeowners should be ready to discuss design needs and objectives in building or remodeling their home.
Five necessary items to discuss are:
- Site/lot location, including the topography of the land
- List of objectives
- Written list of basic needs, wants and dreams
- Overall budget
- Time frame for completion
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Once you give them the proper information, ask the designer or architect questions. Look through their portfolio of past projects. Ask how they charge for their services. Some charge by the hour while others charge a flat fee or a rate based on the square footage or budget of the home. Contact people on their list of references before making any final decisions. Once you choose the designer or architect, the design process begins. First, the homeowner and architect or designer discuss what the house will include. Next, a concept sketch or schematic is prepared showing general arrangements of the rooms and the site. After the homeowner approves this sketch, the designer or architect will prepare drawings made to scale and outline materials and room finishes. With the homeowner’s approval they prepare a detailed floor plan, including specifications. These documents will become part of the building contract and contractors will use them to establish actual construction costs.
How much you want the architect or designer to do is up to you and your budget. They can represent you throughout the entire building process. Remember that the architect or designer is your advocate. They assist you in order to make the planning and design process of your new or remodeled home an enjoyable experience.
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