WHY AN ARCHITECT?

In America most homes are not designed by Architects but "Home Designers" instead have taken on the majority of that work. Although they can be talented, most of these designers and draftsmen have little training or understanding in architectural styles or space planning.  Mechanical systems, plumbing and structural design should be considered from the beginning as well as how to use natural light while avoiding too much heat gain.  We have a full understanding of these key elements and integrate them while others wait until the design is done and almost have to retrofit these aspects into their design as if they were remodeling new space, often making key mistakes that we can avoid.  Square footage is often wasted by the unskilled designer with poor circulation patterns and little consideration for how the furniture will interact with the space and total square feet = total cost.  An individual must have an advanced 5 or 6 year architectural degree, 2 years of internship and also pass rigorous national exams to become an Architect.  So although you may think you are saving money with a designer or draftsperson you will usually pay for that savings several times over in added construction cost and operating cost for your home.  Consider also the exponential costs of construction versus design (about 90% versus 10%) and of paying for those bigger costs over a 30 year loan.  Paying for a good architect up front will save you money.