We are in the process of trying to remodel our ranch house, circa 1949. We have a well built house, great lot, flat about 1/2 acre. We went through an architect and did our plans and came up with a design but argh:0 the estimates were way more than we could afford. We went the architect route and thought we could do a phased project but now we -just think the addition is too big. We really like Sarah Susanka’s philosphies and would like to look at reconfiguring the space rather than add. We hate to start over with another architect and spend even more $. Seems most architects and GC’s (at least in our area) want to build bigger and not spend the time to reconfigure. Any suggestions on how to get an architect/GC/home design firm to look at what we really want? Thanks. Maybe we could get Sarah to consult ? 🙂
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Replies
What did you tell your architect before the design work began? If you wanted to reconfigure the home, why did the architect design an addition?
I read her post to say that they wanted an addition but now find they can't afford what the architect designed. That's why they are looking to reconfigure.
I don't know much about the design business, but it seems like an architect who designs something so far outside of the budget is pretty crummy. I'm curious as to whether the original poster gave the archie a budget to work with.
That's what I read too, but I wanted to ask the question first. My guess is that her objections arose after the plans were drawn and a budget estimate was prepared. Then, sticker shock hit like a load of bricks!!
One thing I've learned is that the first question for the homeowner is what they want, followed immediately by their planned budget.
Hi,
I, too, have a rambler/ranch and haven't yet started serious talks with an architect. I don't know the area you are in, but Susanka's web site has a list of architects who understand her philosophy. It probably is expensive to switch architects, but it might be better than working with someone who doesn't share your vision.