Architects valuable in redesign
But if you want to study the possibilities and consider your options before moving ahead, you should meet with an architect.
Your first challenge is to find an architect who does residential remodeling. Most architectural firms only do commercial projects and new high-end custom homes. Many won't touch a home remodel project under half a million dollars — and that is fairly pricey by most people's standards.
Once you do find an architect with whom you feel comfortable, be ready to spend six months to a year in the design stage. One of the most common miscalculations is to underestimate the time required from discussing a potential project to standing in a finished structure. You should not expect to meet with an architect in March and start construction in June.
Planning the specifics of your remodeling project with an architect can be what turns an average remodel into a personalized design that truly meets your family's lifestyle. An architect can see your project with an objective eye to help you find the potential in home. Although the solution may not be extreme, an architect can see beyond what may seem like boundaries to you. While keeping an eye on the budget, an architect isn't afraid to move walls or stairs.
Ultimately, an architect can help you understand the possibilities and help you get the most for your money. A good architect will give you design options from a basic design to one with all the bells and whistles, with others in between. The architect should attach some kind of budget estimate to at least one of the preliminary design options, so you can tell if your project is even "in the ballpark" of your budget before you pay to execute a final set of construction documents.
It doesn't help you if an architect designs a beautiful addition that turns out to be three times what you can afford when you receive bids from contractors.
That just wastes your time and money.
Building and zoning departments in your city have to review your drawings before they will issue a building permit. In Utah, residential projects do not have to be stamped by a licensed architect (which is why a drafter — as mentioned above — may be a viable option for your project), but the state does require that a structural engineer approve the structural portion of the project. Architects can help you coordinate with the structural engineer and navigate the governmental red tape.
Along those same lines, another advantage of using an architect is the creation of a specifications book that will supplement the plans. This manual specifies construction standards that are to be met as well as provides detailed information on the finishes (floors, cabinets, tile, etc.) and equipment (appliances, plumbing fixtures, etc.) that the contractor will have to supply in order to complete the project. Obviously, the more specific your plans are, the more accurate your bid will be and the more the finished product will resemble what you have planned.
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