Hi all…
Looking at a home designer vs. professional architect and I wanted your views on the benefits of one vs. the other. the designer costs about 1/2 the architect but I wonder if you get a “better or creatitively” designed home with the architect????
thanks for your thoughts
Replies
how's your budget?
did you read the new homes issues of FHB? discussed some of this.
bobl Volo Non Voleo Joe's BT Forum cheat sheet
Get references, in either event. Ask to see completed projects. Ask about contractors worked with (or recommended, and why).
Check with the designer to see what you are getting, too. The architect can be more expensive because he will provide plans for the permits and written specifications, and supervision (oversight) of the construction phase.
It's not a bad idea to ask if certain parts of the process can be supplied in a contract or "job" basis. It may be that a designer can make your notepad plan into a better-developed scheme, which can then go to an architect for contract documents. Or, the architect could be contracted to create the design that is presently only magazine clippings into a cohesive "whole" (the Design Development phase, this is called). Then, this can be taken to the designer, who can then create a "buildable" set of working drawings. This last technique is good where you are planning to GC the project.
As noted already, the name/title is not necessarily indicative of the tasks performed. You'll learn this only by asking. Some designers do concepts and construction docs. Some architects do concepts and construction docs. There's no correlation I know of between the titles and creativity. Look for someone who has successfully done what it is that you're intending to accomplish. Also, make sure that your temperments mesh. The ability to speak freely is hugely important in this relationship.
There is as much difference between an architect and a designer as there is between individual architects or designers. In many cases, the individual practicing architecture under the title of designer has had the same formal training and experience as a registered architect, but has not pursued licensure.
While it is true that, in most cases, the fee for an architect is more than those of a designer, if you compare each step of the design process, they would probably be comparable. The architect’s service begin with concept drawings and proceeds through construction drawings to construction. Most design firms typically do not offer the same range of services. Depending on the flexibility of the architect, the owner’s construction experience and knowledge, and the size of the project, many of these steps could be reduced or eliminated, helping your design budget.
Occasionally, using a residential architect is a less expensive alternative, as they tend to be smaller firms with less overhead costs.
Be sure to check with your local building official on the permit application requirements for their jurisdiction. Most codes have a minimum cost threshold or a structural modification clause stating when the use of a registered architect or professional engineer is required.
Good luck.