Steps In The Process

Design and construction projects involve several steps. Generally, projects go through the following phases. However, on some projects, several of these steps may be combined; on others there may be additional steps.

Deciding What to Build

This first stage, called programming, is probably the most valuable time you will spend with your architect. It is at this time that you discuss the requirements for your building: how many rooms, what function the structure will have, who will use it and how. It is also the time when you begin to test the fit between what you want, what you need, and what you can spend.

Be very frank about how you want the end result to feel and work. The architect will ask you lots of questions to get a better sense of your goals and needs and to determine if your expectations match your budget. The architect may suggest changes based upon knowledge, experience, and your budget.

Rough Sketches

Once you have defined what is to be built, the architect will then do a series of rough sketches, known as schematic designs. These sketches will show you the general arrangement of rooms and of the site. These sketches are not finished documents. They are meant to show possible approaches for you to consider. The architect will refine and revise the sketches until a solution is developed that you agree meets the needs of your project. 

Preparing Construction Documents

At this point, the architect prepares construction documents, the detailed drawings and specifications which the contractor will use to establish actual construction cost and to build the project. These drawings and specifications will be used to obtain building permits and will become part of the contractor's contract.

Hiring The Contractor

There are a number of ways to select a contractor. Your architect can make
recommendations, or, if you already have someone you want to work with, you might send the construction documents to him or her and negotiate fees and costs. Or you may wish to choose among several contractors you've asked to submit bids on the job.

Construction

This final step is often the most anxiety producing part of the whole process. Up until now, your project has been confined to intense discussion, planning and two-dimensional renderings. When construction begins, your project moves from an abstraction to a physical reality.

While the architect observes construction, the contractor is solely responsible for construction methods, techniques, schedules and procedures. 

The path to a completed building project is paved with lots of challenges and uncertainty. There are literally hundreds of decisions to be made, decisions which have a strong impact on how the project looks and functions over time. The architect not only can ease the way by helping you avoid wrong turns, but also can direct you to solutions you never considered. The result is a unique building project created to meet your needs, express your individuality and provide enjoyment for everyone who uses it.

 

Welcome.

Why You Should Hire an Architect

The architect is the one professional who has the education, training, experience and vision to guide you through the entire design and construction process.  Few people realize how complicated it is to build until they find themselves lost in the maze of design options, building codes, zoning laws contractors, etc.   No two building projects are exactly alike and there is no single, clear-cut path to follow.

From helping you define what you want to build, to helping you get the most for your construction  dollar, the architect sees the big picture.  The architect creates total environments.  Whether you are remodeling, adding on, or building from scratch, the architect can guide the way.  Working with contractors and other construction professionals, the architect can help you create a well-designed project that meets your needs.

The Architect Solves Problems

Most building projects start with a want or need.  “I need more file space in my office.”  Or, “We’ve outgrown our house.”  But how does that need or want translate into square feet and three-dimensional space?  That is what architects are trained to do.  Architects solve problems in creative ways.  With their broad knowledge of design and construction, architects can show you alternatives and options you might not think of on your own. 

Need more room for your growing family?  The architect can show you how to enlarge your home so you don’t have to move.  Not sure of how fast your business will grow?  The architect can design an office that meets your needs today and can be adapted for tomorrow.  Have a limited budget?  The architect looks for ways to make your project cost effective.

The Architect Can Save You Money

The architect’s services are a wise investment for the money.

A well-conceived project can be built more efficiently and economically.  Architects plan your project with you.  As your ideas evolve, changes can be made on paper much less expensively than later when construction is underway.  Thorough drawings also make it easier for the contractor to accurately price and build your project.

Energy efficient buildings can save you money on fuel bills.  The architect can design a building to maximize heating from the sun and natural light, thus reducing your heating, cooling and electric bills over time.

The architect can work within your budget to help you select the appropriate materials and workmanship at a fair price.  Architects develop the drawings and specifications to help you get bids for construction based on your requirements. 

An architect can help you choose materials and finishes that are durable, as well as beautiful, thus saving on frequent maintenance and replacement costs.  Architects work to stay abreast of advances in roofing, brick work, flooring, paint finishes, etc.  Their familiarity with the full range of materials enables them to suggest the appropriate materials for your project.

Good design sells.  A well-designed house has a higher resale value.  A well-designed store draws customers.  A well-designed work environment attracts employees and increases productivity.  The architect is well-versed in these concepts.

The Architect Can Make Your Life Easier

Building is a long process and one that often is messy and disruptive, particularly if you are living or working in the space under construction. The architect represents your interests and develops ways to make the process go smoothly. 

If your project requires specialized  engineering and/or other design services, the architect can coordinate a team of experts so you don’t have to.  The architect sorts out complex building codes and zoning laws.  The architect can help you find qualified construction contractors based on your requirements.  The architect visits the construction site to help verify that the project is being built according to plans and specifications.