The design process

Building your dream home or commercial building can be both invigorating and overwhelming. You'll have to make many decisions as you go through the process—some easy, some challenging. However, you create a design that's truly yours—perfectly suited to your wants and your needs. Hiring the right architect to help you is the first step in managing the process and creating a successful project.

Why you need an architect

Architects are more than designers

Architects are professionals trained to understand the entire scope of a building's anatomy: structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, waterproofing, and many other technical construction issues.
It's the architect who creates the detailed construction drawings from which the builder can build.
Architects help establish your vision for a project; they also help you maintain that vision during the construction process.

Architects can mitigate design and construction problems

An architect moves beyond the conspicuous and sees the possibilities you may not have thought of on your own.
An architect walks you through the labyrinth of design options, zoning laws, building codes, contractors, permits, and more.
Your architect is your advocate whenever issues arise. And they do!

Architects can help you get you the most for your budget

The architect's fee is an investment, not an expense. A well-conceived design can be built more efficiently and economically and can also translate to greater real estate values.
An architect helps you to select construction materials and technologies that are within your budget and can help you reduce operating costs over the life of your building.

Architects can help increase the value of your property

Your property value increases through appropriate design, improved functionality, and close attention to detail.

Architects can help you with "green" building

Certain architects use a "whole-systems" approach utilizing "green" design and building techniques. Green building provides a good return on investment (ROI) because it reduces utility costs, contributes to the health of a building's occupants, offers better resale value and has a positive effect on the environment. Often construction costs are reduced through the choice of appropriate building systems.

Selecting an architect

This is much like selecting any other professional. Get referrals from friends, relatives, colleagues, and neighbors. Go through the yellow pages or look online. Then interview several firms. Ask to see a portfolio and pay particular attention to projects similar in scope to yours. Once you find an architect with whom you're comfortable, you may not need to meet with others. Be sure your architect listens to your hopes, your expectations, and your dreams.

Design phases and timetables

Design phases and timetable
Checklist for planning new construction or renovation