Article
a great remodel starts with an architect
A great remodel project starts with an architect, meets your objectives, and is aligned with proper building codes.
Contributors
Gregory M Houston – Author
Gregory M Houston – Photographer/Illustrator
A great design is essential when taking on a remodel project. Most homeowners need help making decisions about options and determining what is feasible in terms of the existing house and the overall budget. If you don’t hire an Architect or some other qualified remodel design professional, you may find that your remodel doesn’t meet building codes, incorporate an integral part of your vision, ensure that products will fit properly, or stay within the original budget. An architect will ensure the end product is attractive and meets all of the objectives.
Remodel Design
To begin with, you will need to know what you want from your home remodel. Whether you have an open budget, a specific budget or have no idea how much your project should cost, one of the first things you will want is to determine how much you can or should spend. An architect is able to help you with this if you need it.
In addition to budget you should start dreaming. There is a reason you started this process. Is your bathroom too small? Does your kitchen need an upgrade? Are you tired of leaving your basement unfinished and unused? Do you just need more space? Make a list of the things you would like in the remodel design. Prioritize this list and discuss it with the architect. He or she can incorporate this list in the design, and can help you set an expectation based on your budget and time frame.
Most importantly, talking to an architect will generate more ideas and help solidify your options.
Remodel Design
- As a general rule, the larger the project, the more important it is to have design help. Coordinating all of the aspects of a large project take a great deal of time. While a contractor can and does manage the construction process, the architect takes responsibility for the remodel making sure the integrity of the design is not forgotten. Small changes during construction might seem to make sense but end up increasing the cost of the project significantly…not to mention resubmittals to the building department which can delay the process, also increasing the project cost
- The advantage of an architect is his/her comprehensive service and knowledge in the area of design, materials, and structure. While you may know what you want, the architect can tell you if it will actually work in your home. They can inform you about new design trends and materials and can offer ideas that you may not have thought of. Chose an architect with home remodel experience.
- Many architects offer their services on a per-hour rate designed for homeowners who simply need consultation services for their upcoming home building or remodeling project. For instance you can hire an architect for conceptual design services to help you formalize your remodel ideas.
Bottom line, hire an architect. With their experience, they will save you money, time, and a great deal of heartburn in a process that can be very stressful…Design and Construction.