Has an addition to the family or other life-altering change have you considering an update on your home? As we go through life, our lives change. Our houses do not, at least not without help. If you are wanting to stay in your home as your life progresses, you should probably consider remodeling.

Whether you are starting to build a new home, adding a bath, completely updating your kitchen, or even just trying to make better use of the space you have, you should consider if you will or will not be hiring professional help. After deciding what you would like to do to your home, you should decide which type of professional level you are seeking.

There are several level professionals to work on your home. Builders offer design for the home; a draftsperson puts the plans on paper. Architectural designers have studied for many years, however, what sets architects apart from other people who design homes is that they are licensed. To obtain a license, an architect must earn a degree from an approved architectural program, complete an internship, and pass an exam. This ensures that architects possess a high level of expertise in design, materials, and building systems.

It is essential that when you hire a professional, flexibility is required in projects. Architects are trained professionals who have spent years studying building codes, interior, and exterior design, structural integrity, and so on. They are employed with their wealth of knowledge to contribute, so it is helpful to listen and take their expert advice. While it is important to have a clear understanding of what you want for your home, you need to be open to professional suggestions to create a smooth and successful project.

Even after doing extensive research, there could be extreme issues with the architect based on miscommunications. Here is what should be researched further before signing a contract:

What is the Role of the Architect?

Architects can handle a range of responsibilities in a renovation. It is important to talk through what your expectations are, and what are the expectations of the architect. You should discuss the options during the interviews, build a mutual set of expectations into the budget and the contract.

They may perform duties like:

Drafting the plans

Drafting the plans is most likely what you think of when you are thinking of an architect. The technical drawings are, in fact, key. Developing the plans gives the architect a chance to help you distinguish your ideas and set realistic expectations. These completed drawings provide the basis for permits and will be able to guide the contractors on site.

Advising on fixtures and finishing

“Fixtures and finishes” is a broad term that includes paint, tile, flooring, counter tops, cabinets, faucets, lighting, appliances, and more. If you are working with both an architect and a designer, the designer will be the person to recommend these. If you do not have a designer those decisions are between you and your architect.

Choosing and managing the contractor

A good architect will have relationships with several respected contractors. The architect should be able to recommend a few to bid on your project. They should know the skills of the contractor and rely on their assistance if they are falling short.

Managing the project

There are many parts of renovations, there are permits and people to coordinate, as well as fixtures and finishes to order and track. The contractor may handle some of these tasks, the architect can be the organizational person, the one to help you understand deadlines for the items you have ordered, finding specialized subcontractors, and keeping things on track with permits and processes.

Making suggestions to keep the project on time and budget.

While this may fall into the category of managing the project, getting help with the time frame can be something that you establish as a priority. In addition to staying on top of the contractor and other workers, an architect might recommend attractive finishes that can be delivered quickly and help you understand which pieces you can reasonably have done once you have already moved in. They can also help with the budget by suggesting appealing, less expensive alternatives to the higher end finishes you like.

Now that you have learned a few things on what you should know before you hire an architect for your new home, whether it is a small renovation or a to have more modern architecture, call about how Oza Sabbeth Architects can assist you.