Design Confidently, Live Comfortably
 What an architect can do for you by Barbara Winslow Will and Julia Mies never expected to need an architect, but when fire destroyed their home, they turned to our firm for full architectural services. After drawing final plans, we followed the construction and finishing process on a weekly basis and were even involved in many aspects of interior design. But the services of an architect do not have to go that far. Design Ideas An architect's services can be minimal if a client has a clear idea what he wants, excellent contractors, and the time and inclination to pull permit and contract drawings together. In this case, the most cost-effective way to use an architect may be in the development of a "schematic design"
Working Drawings With somewhat more involvement, an architect can take the design to the next level and develop construction documents -- drawings that include structural engineering and electrical and mechanical systems. These drawings are suitable for getting a building permit and will allow a builder to estimate costs and build the shell of the house. Decisions about products such as windows and doors, equipment, interior finishes, fixtures, and cabinets are left to the owner, and the builder is expected to resolve questions that arise during construction. A disadvantage: It can be difficult to accurately determine the total cost of a project. Complete Plans At the next level of service, the architect provides complete documents, including interior elevations that lay out each wall and define its materials, construction details, and specifications for building processes. With all this information, a contractor can provide a precise cost estimate, then build a finished house. In this case, the architect is typically involved during construction, but services may be limited to answering questions about the design. Full Services A typical contract for complete services means the architect is involved in the building process every step of the way. In this case, it's the architect's responsibility to see that the building complies with the intent of the drawings, that construction is completed to the clients' satisfaction, and that contractors are paid. Because drawings cannot cover every aspect of building, it's only through regular visits to the site that an architect can make sure a job stays on track, problems are resolved, and payments correspond with progress. For more information on architectural services, visit the American Institute of Architects Web site at www.aia.org/consumer. NEXT: A Homeowner’s Insurance Travails BACK: Warm and Welcoming Eclectic Decor |
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