Hiring an architect to complete a full suite of architectural services from initial design to completed construction is an excellent way to reduce the potential responsibilities and costs of a remodeling project. Architectural services may include but are not limited to:
A licensed professional architect will understand the science of building design and coordinate all aspects of the project. In addition, an experienced architect will be able to navigate the complexities of structural engineering, surveying, foundations, plumbing, and mechanical drafting.
Architectural services can range from the preliminary design through the construction itself. Full suite services involve more involved steps, such as coordinating all elements of the remodel with existing plans and budgets. Architectural services offered by a full-service architectural firm include construction management, environmental reporting, permitting, and construction finishes. Depending on the complexity of the project, architectural firms may also provide assistance with construction documentation and drawings. The final product is a professionally designed home, garage, or office building, with each stage properly executed with quality products and procedures.
Be sure to hire only the most skilled and experienced architects when you are looking to renovate your home or office. Be sure to check references and ask friends and family for recommendations before hiring any individual. Do a comprehensive search online to find a large number of licensed architects in your area. Most contractors will have websites with pictures and descriptions of their work and a list of contact information.
When hiring an architect, choose an individual that is familiar with the building process and has experience working with both traditional and modern designs. It is important to review the architectural drawings and get a few quotes from different architects to ensure you are getting the best price for your needs. If you are hiring individual architects or a company to complete your renovation project, be sure to inquire about their rate for revisions and changes to the original plan. Also, when hiring an architect, make sure that he or she is experienced in designing a variety of projects and will be able to come up with a wide variety of house plans and ideas.
Hiring an architect is a big investment so it is important to make sure that everything is perfect from the beginning. One of the most important steps to take is to interview him or her to determine if they are a good fit for your project. During the interview process, ask questions about the details of the renovation plan including the finishes, floor plans, architectural details, and the like. You should also ask if the architect will be able to assist with the construction process from start to finish and whether or not he or she has experience working with residential or commercial buildings.
Before selecting an architect, you need to know what services he or she will provide. Most firms will include architectural estimates and designs in their house plans and provide these to the client free of charge. However, some architectural firms charge an hourly fee for their professional services. This is a good indication of the quality of his or her service since good contractors want their customers to have confidence in their work. If you are in the market for residential construction, it is important to look at the rates offered by the architectural firms to get an idea of the level of their expertise.
Also, be aware of the fact that some specialize in only certain types of buildings and other commercial or residential projects. For example, an architect who specializes in water features may not be qualified to design a swimming pool. In addition, different architectural firms operate on different time frames. It is advisable to talk to several firms prior to making a decision to hire an architect so that you can compare their rates and level of experience.
Most contractors and architects have their own websites and can be reached through email, phone, and regular mail. Make sure that you ask questions when you first meet with an architect to make sure that you understand what his or her expectations are and to make sure that you are on the same page as your architect before moving forward with the construction of your home or business. You should also ask questions regarding any warranty that the architect offers. Remember that you are making an investment and you want to be sure that you are pleased with the results of your construction.
