Are you considering a new addition to the family? Is your home business growing beyond your kitchen table? Perhaps you have to offer your home to an elderly relative who is unable to climb the stairs in your colonial-style center-hall. Our lives are constantly changing, but our homes don’t. Remodeling is a good option if you want to keep your home intact as you go through life.

Andreas Christodoulou Architectural Associates
42 Granville Place, High Road, London N12 0AX, United Kingdom
02074594359, (0) 7902 971022

Remodeling can be expensive and require a lot of planning. Many other questions can be raised, including what type of tile you should use for your new bathroom floor. Is it worth hiring an architect?

An architect can often be seen as a luxury in DIY-world. An architect is not necessary to complete a successful remodel, even a large one. It is possible, provided you and your builder are skilled in design, have a clear vision of what you want, have the ability to produce plans that meet local building regulations. You could do without an architect in all of these cases. You might also ask the question, “Do I really want to?”

There are several levels of architectural design service

The licensing of new build architects is what sets them apart from other home-designers. An architect must have a degree from an approved program in architecture, do an internship and pass an exam to be eligible for a license. This ensures that architects have a high level knowledge about design, materials, building systems, and other topics.

Architectural Designer, sometimes called designers, have studied and practiced architecture design for many years. However they are not licensed. They can work independently or with licensed architects.

Many builders offer home design services. Some even have a dedicated designer on staff. Design-build companies offer both construction and architectural design services under one roof. Architects manage some while others have architects on staff.

An draftsperson will put your plans on paper. Although they can create the drawings you need for your project, this is usually done only after the design has been established. Drafters are often paired with licensed architects and builders, just like designers.

Any of the individuals listed above might be able to assist you with your remodel. Many people, especially homeowners looking to make minor changes to their homes, don’t realize how difficult it is to modify an existing house to meet new standards. Architects have the ability to see all possibilities and can translate them into detailed plans that your builder can execute.

When you may need an architect

This is how you can tell if an architect or an experienced architect designer is the right choice.

• There is a problem in your house. Perhaps your laundry room on the upstairs floor causes a jam every time you open it. You might need a new bathroom. But every square inch in your house is covered. A good architect can help you navigate these situations and find creative solutions that suit your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
• Feeling cramped? An architect can help you make the most of your existing space. Many spaces in even the smallest homes are underutilized and can be reconfigured to make them more usable. Sometimes, what appears to be a shortage of square footage is actually a circulation problem that can sometimes be fixed with some alterations.
• You aren’t comfortable making decisions about building. Major remodels can be expensive and time-consuming. An architect can act as an adviser and intermediary to help you get the best results for your project.
• Most communities do not require an architect for most remodels. However, in some cases and especially in urban areas, you may need to have an engineer or architect sign off on your plans. To be certain, check with your local building department.
• You renovate a historic or unique home, changing the style or building on a complex site. Perhaps you want to build a saltbox from 18th century. You might also want to convert your 1970s builder colonial house into a shingle-style home. Perhaps you are looking to add a second floor to your perched home on a cliff edge. Hire an architect when design is important.
• You have a tight budget. Hiring an architect will cost you more. A good architect can help you save money. Value engineering is a way to save money. It is a process that allows you to obtain the feature you desire at a lower price. An architect may suggest that you substitute a cheaper but similar building material to achieve the same effect. You can also get help from an architect to avoid making costly mistakes in design or material.

How to find the right architect

After you have decided to hire an architect, you must find the right one. An architect should be skilled in the design of your remodel or addition. However, they must also communicate well with you and have a cost-effective plan.

Make sure the cost of an architect is included in your home remodel budget. Fixed-rate personal loans are often used to pay for a portion or all project costs. Discover, for instance, offers personal loans that do not require collateral. This means you don’t need to put your home on the line in order to get the loan. Funds can be sent within the same day that you have been approved. This is important in cases where unexpected costs arise or when you exceed your budget. You can get the money you need with Discover Personal Loans.

You will need to do your research in order to find the right architect.

You can view the work of architects through home design magazines and their websites. They often give insight into architects’ general approach to projects and also provide contact information. Sites like HomeAdvisor.com or houzz.com allow you to search for architects in your area by zip code. You can also narrow down your search using certain qualifiers.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) can also help you. Many state chapters maintain membership lists on their websites.

Once you have identified potential architects, visit their websites to see their portfolios and learn more about their design philosophy and practice.

One final point: Word of mouth is often the best way to find a great professional. Be aware that the architect who worked on your friend’s project might not be the best for you. Interviews are required to find out.

The Interview: What are you looking forward to?

A phone conversation will allow you to get to know the architect better and set up a meeting to discuss the possibility of a job. This interview is usually free of charge. It will focus on the potential architect’s willingness to take on the project and your desire to hire them. Before you choose one, interview several architects.

You can expect to discuss your ideas for the project, budget and your timetable at your first meeting. Because you will be spending much time together, you want to leave with a feeling of whether or not you can work together. The architect will seek the same thing.

What to bring to an interview

Bring any inspiration photos or plans for the project to the interview and any photographs and plans of your current home. Although it’s unlikely that you will get into the details of the design, visuals can help an architect decide if the job is worth the effort and whether your budget allows for realizing your dream.

What should you ask the architect?

Bring questions to the interview to help you fully understand what to expect from this partnership. These could include:

• What’s your design philosophy? This should be something you already know from your research. But, here’s a chance to discuss the vision that this architect will bring for your project. Are they focused on sustainability? Preservation? Low cost? Your architect should value your priorities.
• What’s your process? Although most architects have a set process for every project, it can vary from one firm to the next and from project to project (more later). The typical phases are initial consultation, preliminary (or schema) design, design design, document preparation, bidding, negotiation and construction administration.
• Have you worked on similar projects to mine? Make sure that the architect is comfortable with the scale and complexity of your project.
• With whom will I work? In the case of a large company, it is important to identify who will design your project and who will be your contact person.
• Are there any potential problems? Be upfront if you have to deal with a challenging site, a tight budget, or other issues. The architect’s response to these challenges will determine if they are suitable for the project.
• What time will it take to design the building and to complete the job? The architect can take responsibility for his or her own time but cannot account for delays due to indecisions or scheduling conflicts.
• Are references available from the architect, especially for similar projects? You may be able to see similar work that they have done on other houses. You should take advantage of this opportunity. Ask specific questions of references when you contact them. What did the architect do to save you money? How did they handle conflict? Did the project get completed on time?
• How will your plans be presented? Can you view your project in 3D on a computer screen or do they still rely on paper? Both are not indicators of an architect who is “better”, but it’s a sign that you are more comfortable with one.
• Who will be responsible and for what? A partnership is necessary when you are designing a major renovation. Both of you need to know what is expected.
• What fees do you charge and how are they structured? You should have a clear understanding of the fees and their basis. Also, how and when will you be charged. What about the cost of all services? You can also pay half of the cost at a predetermined halfway point.

FINANCING TIP Some people choose to borrow money for a part of their remodel. There are no application fees or collateral requirements.

Architectural Fees

The fees charged by architects vary depending on the type of project and the area’s economy. The average fee is $5,126. Fees range from $2,014 up to $8,375. However, fees can vary depending on the complexity and size of the job. Talk to local architects to get an idea of the costs involved in designing your project. The cheapest quote does not always mean the best, just as with any professional service.

Hourly charges

Some architects charge an hourly rate. The average range is between $60 and $125. There will be additional fees in certain country areas, especially in urban areas. This may work well if your project is small and you know exactly what you want, and are willing to accept little back-and forth. Limiting the hours worked may be a good idea, but you will need to re-negotiate once that limit is reached.

The hourly rate for a firm, as opposed to an individual architect, may vary depending on the person who is working on your project. The rate for a firm principal may be higher than that of a young architect or designer who has only 1-2 years of experience.

Construction cost percentage

Another option is to charge a percentage from the project’s cost, usually between 5% to 15% for new construction, and 15% to 20% to remodels, according data from HomeAdvisor.com. Remodels can be more complex than new construction because they have to deal with existing problems. The problem with charging construction costs is that you may not know the exact cost at the time of your search for an architect.

Square foot billing

Some architects charge per square foot. This rate can vary greatly and it will be difficult to determine the exact price in the beginning stages. For small projects, such as a kitchen remodel, the cost per square foot will not be worth the architect’s time.

Fixed fees and combination fees

Some architects combine both methods and charge hourly until plans have been established. Then, they charge by the square foot. Some architects charge a fixed fee to complete the project. Fixed fees give you the benefit of knowing what you will be paying. But make sure you understand what it covers from the beginning. This will be clearly stated in the contract.

FINANCING TIP To find out the average cost for homeowners to hire an architect in their area, visit the Pro Cost-Estimator above .

Signature of the Contract

You will need to sign a contract when you hire an architect. The contract will usually include details about the scope of work, the services that the architect will provide, the schedule, and the amount the architect will be paid. Many architects use standard contracts developed by AIA.

You should check to make sure that the fee includes the cost to draw up the plans or if you will need to hire an additional draftsperson. This step could account for as much as half of your total design costs ($800 to 2,800). Site surveys, 3-D modeling and other services may incur additional fees. You should also understand the impact of design revisions on the fee and whether certain revisions are included.

The contract will also specify who has the rights to the plans. Typically, this is the architect. This won’t be an issue if you and your architect split up before completing the project. You will need to find out if you are allowed to alter the plans or complete the house with another architect.

I have signed with an architect. What should I expect?

When designing or remodeling homes, most residential architects follow the same path. These steps are common.

• Preliminary Design Phase. This phase usually includes a consultation to understand the client’s requirements and a site visit. The architect will then create a written plan (the project’s goals) and sketch rough designs to confirm the size and layout.
• Design development. After the client has approved, the architect will add details to the design and continue to consult with him on trim, materials and other details. The client and architect may use computer modeling to assist them in guiding the project. The architect can help with permits and may call in structural engineers or consultants as required.
• Documentation. The architect’s office will prepare detailed blueprints that can be presented to builders and contractors to get estimates.
• FINANCING TIP Once your budget has been set, you must stick with it. It can be hard to stick to a budget when you have great ideas mid-project. However, asking for more work from an architect/builder can quickly increase your costs. If this happens (and it often does), a personal loans can be an easy and fast way to fill a budget gap. Discover allows you to apply for the exact amount you need up to $35,000 and choose your repayment terms from three to seven year. A personal loan can be viewed online to see the interest rate without affecting your credit score.
• Getting a Contractor. The architect will meet with potential contractors and answer questions about your project. Although they may recommend other builders, it is ultimately up to you.
• Construction administration. Your architect should be available to answer questions, solve design problems, provide additional drawings, and approve payment to the contractor. This is your job to ensure everything runs according to plan and help with any issues.

Get your Architect to help you–and save money

You can do many things once you have signed with an architect to ensure your project goes as planned.

• must be accessible. Make sure to review drawings and make material suggestions quickly.
• Be decisive. Let your architect know if you are having difficulty making a decision. Your architect may have strategies or information that can help you break through the log jam.
• Ask questions. You’ll be less likely to be surprised when you build the design if you better understand it.
• If you have a problem with a particular design aspect, please speak up. It is much easier to move a hallway or enlarge it on paper than it is after it has been framed.

An architect will tell you that a client who is engaged with them produces better results. It takes more than luck to have successful projects. It is a good investment to not only invest in your property, but also in your happiness and fulfillment occupying it.