When beginning a major construction, such as a new home or a remodeling project, one of the first decisions to make is whether to use an architect.
They’re not cheap but they can add substantial value. Their building and design expertise can save you thousands of dollars in the construction phase and offer a significant payback in terms of creating value in your asset through unique design and choice of materials.
Architects specialize in making your dream home a reality. Their knowledge and networks can deliver design choices and materials that suit your desired lifestyle that are above and beyond that offered by builders and draftsmen.
However, it requires a leap of faith to select an architect. You must be confident their skills will financially reward you in the short and long term.
Architects are college-trained and must be registered. They are professionals in the strictest sense, which means they must have the appropriate qualifications to call themselves architects.
Their fees will vary depending on the size of the project and the degree to which they become involved in its construction.
A good relationship between an architect and a contractor will not only enhance the project but take away a lot of your stress. They can guide you on project management and cost control, and they can play intermediary if there is any on-site tension with the contractor, which has been known.
Some key reasons to use an architect
Turning dreams into reality – An architect’s role first and foremost is to listen to their client and deliver a design that meets their requirements. This doesn’t mean they do as they’re told. Good architects will inspire and transform your ideas into something special.
Designs and plans – Responsibility for these lies with the architect. They should know local planning authority requirements, such as zoning and construction codes, to guide you on what will and won’t be approved. Correcting rejected plans is expensive and you should expect your architect to avoid such an outcome.
Trends and technologies – These can be incredibly important elements of a project. Few are better placed than architects to know the trends in design and the best, most efficient materials for construction and energy efficiency. Architects will also provide guidance on electrical power, HVAC loading and effective lighting, both for the interior and exterior.
Location and natural resources – An architect will guide you on the best site for a new home. Often forgotten in the architectural process is the use of natural sunlight. They’ll also provide assistance on how to create ambience in the garden and the use of any water features.
Budget management – You will have a more accurate assessment of costs from an architect, as they will be best acquainted with the plans and the sourcing of materials.
Negotiator – An architect can work with you to select an appropriate, trusted contractor and negotiate a good price. While you don’t want to get ripped off, equally it is dangerous to drive too hard a bargain because a construction company might seek more profitable work and take time with your project. An architect should know how to find a happy medium.
Construction manager – An architect can play this role if you want them to be immersed in the project. This would be an additional cost but can be an essential element for a complex or large project. You would empower them to approve additional costs and changes that stay within the remit of your planning approvals, and stop any work that oversteps the mark. Most importantly, their role is to keep the project on schedule, which helps control costs.
On-site teamwork – Architects work for you but also adhere to a strict code of ethics. Their presence should provide confidence for both you and the contractor. They can deal with any issues or questions that arise. This speeds up the progress of the build and reduces labor costs. Where there is conflict, expect your architect to play the role of unbiased intermediary.
Reduce your stress – You can’t put a value on a good night’s sleep. Knowing you have an architect on your team should reduce the stress. Of course, there is always anxiety when serious money is being spent. Nevertheless, an architect should not only alleviate day-to-day concerns but reassure you that the end-product will truly be your dream home.