There it is! Your wonderful, new purchase. It could be a home that needs some TLC (Tender Loving Care), a renovation, or a piece of land. All holding the “promise” of your dream creation. What steps do you need to take, to make a dream a reality?
Go all gung-ho and do it yourself!
You would have to plan, draw, source products and find a builder to create what you want. Which is very doable, with a wealth of online resources at our fingertips. It could be the “great” project you need in your life! Because, of course you have absolutely nothing else to do.(note the sarcasm).It would have to be a labor of love and it would be “all” consuming.
NOW let us be realistic! Does any of us truly have the time, energy and expertise to carry out all of this on our own? I am going to guess at a NO for the majority of us. I will not say all of us, as I know a few who have.
First up, you need to hire a professional. A trained individual, who can help you along the way. A person who can visualize the project for you and has the knowledge to carry it out.
“An architect is a licensed design professional who organizes space. The art world may define “space” differently than the scientific world (where does space begin?), but the architecture profession has always been a combination of art and science. Architects design houses, office buildings, skyscrapers, landscapes, ships, and even entire cities”. ThoughtCo
There are a plethora of lists out there. All depicting what an Architect can provide. But I would research and interview a few before you decide. You will need to have a rapport with your architect. Because, you have to trust this person, to do the right thing by your vision. Architects are all different. They have varying styles, personalities, expertise. So, when sourcing one, make sure you talk to a few to get the best fit to you and your project.
A project, whether it be commercial or residential must always look at the clients need. It is the job of the architect to turn the “need”, whether a new office area or reconfiguring a home into a desirable, livable, well designed, functional space. This does not mean a “4 walls and a door project”. The whole entire space must be designed to incorporate all your wants. This includes, but is not limited to – obtaining permits, sourcing builders/contractor, creating a heathy building and providing guidance with materials.
Remember – An architect is a problem solver, project manager, artist, and scientist in one.
With detailed plans from the architect this will enable a smoother build, as the contractor will have all the information that they need.
Architects will have current construction guidelines and they will work hard to create an energy-efficient building. We have discussed these points in detail during a couple of past blog features.
https://hlevel.info/trend-adaptive-reuse-breathing-new-life-into-historical-buildings/
https://hlevel.info/leed-ing-the-way-with-sustainable-architecture/
A good Architect will work with your budget, by selecting the appropriate materials and craftsmen to meet this.
Architects are trained to be up to date in advances in materials and tools. This is extremely advantageous to your build and enables them to suggest the best serving materials for the project.
They can advise on materials and finishes that are beautiful, but long lasting. Reducing maintenance or replacement costs and have minimal ecological impact.
A good architect will create “value” for the designated space. Because, they do market research and thorough cost analysis to ensure you get the best quality for the price. Because, good design will sell. A well-designed house will not only withstand the test of time, it will also have a higher resale value.
Hiring an architect gives you the ability, as the client to create a home that is uniquely yours. A home that fits your needs, style and must haves.
They will create your project “with” you. Ideas evolve and change, and they will help to guide you through the process.
Architecture is a science, but it is also an art. You can buy art prints and knockoffs from many retail stores. Yet, when looking to create a one of a kind space, then the right accredited design professional will create the experience. The experience, where you are part of the design process from the beginning to the end.
Architects can make your life happier and stress free. The design and construction processes are stressful, but any good architect can help relieve this, by being both the project and construction manager.
A well designed project can create environments that are healthier, have natural air flow and follow the latest codes for energy efficiency. A thought out work environment increases productivity as well.
Check out our Service page to see how we can help. Below is a quick overview of a typical design process.
You, the homeowner will sit down with your architect and decide what you would like to create and build. Working through your wants and needs as the consumer.
The architect will take what you have discussed and create some preliminary designs and rough sketches. They may even look to generate a model of the space.
Next step is to flesh out the design. This can include floor levels, layout specifications, internal requirements and material lists.
Once you have approved the design, detailed drawings and specifications will be prepared for the contractor. Enabling them to generate the actual construction and build cost of the project. These drawings and specifications become part of the building contract.
Now you are ready to select and hire a contractor. The architect is usually very happy to make some recommendations. Clients will choose from several contractors who will submit bids on the job. The architect can aid in the bidding document preparation, as well as send invitations and instructions to bidders.
While the contractor will build the home or addition. An architect can assist the homeowner in making sure the project is built according to the plans and specifications. This could include, making site visits to observe construction, reviewing and approving the contractor’s applications for payment, and generally keeping the homeowner informed of the project’s progress. The contractor is solely responsible for construction methods, techniques, schedules, and procedures. However, the architect is always there as a helpful guide and resource.
Please, contact us at Hlevel Architecture if you have any questions or would like to discuss a potential project.
