l . a .  p a u l  &  a s s o c i a t e s

Realizing your dream                                 with an architect...

 

Transforming your dream into reality
When it's time to build, remodel, or add onto your home, working with an architect can transform your dream into reality. A good architect is an important collaborator on your project, performing in partnership with you and your contractor to conceive a design and build a dwelling that truly meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

Many homeowners have the misconception that architects just draw designs, but today's architect may spend only half of his time designing and drafting plans. The rest is spent on choreographing all the components of a building project: consulting and coordinating activities with engineers and other consultants, calculating energy requirements, reviewing building codes and zoning laws, and preparing construction contracts. An architect can also help select the contractor, make periodic site inspections, and facilitate problem solving during construction.

Before meeting with the architect
Before meeting with an architect, scan home improvement magazines for pictures of homes and rooms that appeal to you. Make a wish list of items you'd like to include. Prioritize these items and decide what you absolutely must have, and what you can live without.

Interviewing an architect, reviewing his portfolio, and checking his references can take several weeks. Providing basic architectural services such as consultation, design, and plan drawing usually takes another few months, so be sure to start the process early!

Check references
After the initial interview, talk to references who have completed projects similar to yours in size, scope, and complexity. Ask them questions such as: "What type of services did your architect perform? Did he offer suggestions to improve on your original ideas? Did he listen to your concerns and attempt to resolve them? Did he complete the project on schedule and on budget? Would you hire him again?"

Open communication is essential to a good working relationship and a successful project. Choose an architect who listens to your concerns, understands your needs and is clear about your budget, but then be willing to listen to his ideas. Your architect's experience is a valuable resource, so encourage him to express his professional opinion. He can advise you where it's best to save money, and where cutting corners is unwise. Sometimes an architect will assume you have knowledge that you don't yet have, so don't be afraid to ask questions. If you approach your project with enthusiasm and flexibility, your architect will, too!

The architect is your partner
Remember that your architect is your partner, not your opponent. A relationship strained from constant quibbling is counterproductive, and can result in costly design changes. At the same time, be realistic. Construction is not an exact science -- every project is unique and has unexpected conditions and costs. Even the most well-organized plan cannot anticipate every situation, so take a deep breath and stay flexible! Spare yourself from unnecessary angst with a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.

An experienced architect can keep your project moving smoothly, provide quality and budget controls, and negotiate construction conflicts. Most importantly, he can help make your home aesthetically pleasing and wonderfully functional for many years to come.