Do I really need an Architect?

I will start by saying I am an architect, not a writer. However, as architects we take several liberties, such as making up our own words (here's to you "vernacular" and "typology") and believing we "know a little about a lot" of things. Therefore, I will pretend I am a worthy enough writer to get my point across. I think it's important that as architects we educate the public about not only why we are important, but why we are crucial to the built environment. There are clients however, that initially erroneously believe their project does not require an architect. While it is not necessary to obtain an architect's services for all projects, not hiring one for a substantial project can be almost as detrimental as watching a Youtube video on trimming your pet's hair, and then attempting to do so. Except, that you won't have to live with poor Fluffy's new uneven haircut for the rest of the time you live in your home. Architects can evaluate your needs and determine how much space you really need and design how your new spaces flow together. We have years of experience in similar projects and know how successful some of the different designs we have done are. Here are 3 very good reasons to hire an architect instead of just relying on HGTV ideas and contractors' suggestions:

1. Codes

Architects have to be licensed in the individual state of the project in order to be able to practice. Because of that, we are required to follow building codes that vary throughout states and even throughout different cities. There are codes that the general public may not even know exist, such as how low a window can be to the ground or how big or small that window is required to be. There are codes that determine what kind of wood can be used or what kind of gypsum board should be placed in certain rooms. Most importantly, these codes change every couple of years, and architects are required to comply with the most recent regulations. Some people may disregard the importance of the building code if it's a project for their single home residence. They will unfortunately only feel the affect when they try to sell their property and the building inspector makes them (sometimes expensively) change or remove items or if someone gets hurt on their property.

2. Contractors

Contractors may sometimes insist an architect is not required for a small job. And, sometimes they are right (Only projects done for single-family homes that are to be occupied by that single family can sometimes be completed without an architect, depending on the size and complexity of that project). But, one of the main advantages of hiring an architect is that we are the ones that go to bat for the client if/when the contractor does not agree on something with the client mid-project. Architect's design the details that will make the structure not fail the most efficiently way they know how. We will dimension the appropriate dimensions of stairs, doors, beams, etc. so that the contractor does not have to guess it on site. If there is a misunderstanding, the drawings are legal documents that will be there to determine what exactly is missing or required. Sometimes, details that are important to the architect and client, such as trims or tile layouts, are not as necessarily important to the contractor, and could be detailed in advance.

3. Cost

Architect's drawings are their interpretation of what the built product should look like and contain. Therefore, if a drawing calls for a specific tile, for example, the cost of that specific tile is known before the existing floor is even demolished. There is no disagreement as to the wrong (much cheaper) tile being installed that the contractor bought because it was not listed exactly what the client wanted. The exact sizes of beams and windows are listed in order to get an estimate on your project before anything starts. The architect can find issues ahead of time and figure them out on paper instead of the contractor finding it in the field, saving time and costly money as well.

The best thing about having an architect work on your project is the collaboration between architect, client, and contractor. Ideas and suggestions from all key members can work off each other to create the best outcome for the client. Architects will design the best layouts that meet codes based on their clients wishes, while working with the contractor, who can suggest methods of construction that will provide the least impact to the homeowner. Having the architect work with the contractor also allows for better estimating and cost savings in advance. Working together will always end with the best final product .