“Should we employ an architect or a designer for our project?” is one of the most popular queries homeowners ask renovation contractors. The answer is no for most simple improvements, such as extending a window opening or eliminating a non-bearing wall. Both the contractor and the homeowner can manage the design and construction.
Consider employing an architect or design specialist to assist plan significant extensions, whole-house renovations, and new kitchens. A design professional can ensure that aesthetic concerns mesh with project structural constraints and that the area is both liveable and visually beautiful.
What architects, designers, kitchen experts, and interior designers do and don’t do, how much they charge, and how to choose the proper one for your project are all discussed.
About Architects
Architects are educated in the fields of design theory, engineering and project management. Rates vary depending on area and architect. If you want the architect to manage the project, gather bids, select the contractor and subcontractors, handle money, and supervise work, they will charge an extra 5% to 10% of the project cost.
Architects are talented in coming up with creative solutions to complicated design challenges as well as ensuring that a project is visually true to itself (whether it is traditional or unique in style). An addition, or any other complex project with several roof lines, benefits greatly from an architect’s vision and ability to envisage concepts in three dimensions. An older home where you wish to extend the current historic appearance to new work also qualifies. And, of course, a house where you want to make a one-of-a-kind statement does as well.
Dealing with Architects
Typically, homeowners would consult an architect before bringing in a contractor. After meeting with the homeowners to understand their demands, the architect will provide a comprehensive set of designs for bid, including drawings of the structure’s exterior and all construction features from roof to foundation.
If significant modifications are made, which frequently occur after contractors begin bidding on the project, the architect will redraw the blueprints for a fee. Hiring an architect to oversee a project is the greatest degree of service you can get because you’re just responsible for writing the check. It can be an excellent choice for someone who does not want to deal with a contractor or participate in the day-to-day decision-making process during building.
While it’s great, employing the architect who drew the blueprints to oversee an extension or remodel isn’t always essential. So, if you’re on a tight budget, working with the contractor directly makes more sense.
About Designers
Designers typically lack academic background in architecture and engineering but are skilled in interior design and modest modifications. A designer may have all the expertise you require if you are renovating a kitchen or building a family room. A structural engineer will evaluate a designer’s designs to ensure that beams do not sag, and floors do not bounce, something architects typically do as a precaution as well, despite having minimal engineering expertise.
Some designers work with home improvement companies. These “design/build businesses” provide the entire renovation package, including everything from drawings to paint. In most cases, the project’s design is included in the final cost.
Hiring an Architect or Designer
After deciding between an architect and a designer, you must locate someone with whom to collaborate. Request referrals from trusted relatives, friends, and neighbors. Then examine their previous occupations and interview the homeowners.
Architects and designers might also be found through renovation contractors. They will not recommend someone who does not know what they’re doing or with whom they have previously had problems because they are accountable for building what the designer sketches.
