FAQ’s
Questions & Answers
“Did You Know?”
Responding to commonly recurring questions before beginning a new building or rehabilitation project.
Answering questions may make it easier for a client to chat with their architect. The more detail a client can provide their architect, the easier it will be for the architect to address the client’s specific needs.
Here are a few typical questions and answers:
What does an architect do?
◦ Architects are professionals trained in the art and science of designing and documenting (or preparing drawing and specifications) buildings to ensure the feasibility of the design and guide the construction industry in erecting buildings. They develop the concepts for buildings and turn those concepts into images, plans and specifications, which eventually become homes, office buildings and other facilities. Their work involves more than just the appearance of a building. Everything architects design must be functional, safe and meet the needs of the people who utilize them.
An architect serves in a leadership role to bring together the design and budgetary requirements set by the client, resolve the restraints of a site (where the building will be constructed), satisfy the needs of the building’s users, and the limitations of materials into a unique and balanced design solution. Decision-making, team leadership and creativity are the key elements of making architecture.
The role of an architect is not just to design buildings. Through the design, the architect must also protect the health, safety and welfare of the general public and the users of the buildings. Therefore, like medical doctors, one must have a license granted by a U.S. state or territory in order to refer to oneself as an “architect.” Doing so otherwise is illegal.
Succinctly put, an architect is a licensed professional with specialized skills who designs buildings and cityscapes and helps make real the unique vision of their clients and communities.
Historic Architects work on the restoration, conservation and renovation of historically significant existing buildings by not only utilizing skills to design and document, but doing so while blending that creativity with a deep understanding of historical and cultural contexts.
Why do I need an architect?
◦ Architects ensure that the work is professionally done and that it meets the requirements of local building authorities. Architects help to make sure the building is well-designed and realistic. An architect can also help you find the best building contractor for your work and can manage the project whilst keeping within your budget.
What services do architects provide?
◦ Architects see the big picture when it comes to your building project. They help you explore what appeals to you aesthetically and what you require functionally. They coordinate teams of design, engineering and construction professionals; they sort through the maze of building codes and zoning requirements; they provide design leadership so that your project is built the way it was intended.
How do I find the right architect for my project?
◦ It is critical to find an architect who makes you feel comfortable, and with whom you can have open communication. It’s also important to find an architect with experience in your project type. You should seek recommendations from those you know who’ve worked with an architect previously.
What happens at the initial meeting?
◦ You will have an initial meeting with us to discuss your requirements and make sure that you are choosing the right architect for the job. We will discuss your ideas, concepts and our experience in relation to them.
How are architects compensated?
◦ An architect’s compensation can be based on time, a stipulated sum, a percentage of the cost of the work, the project’s square footage, unit cost (based on number of rooms/apartments, etc.), or royalty in which compensation is a share of the profit derived from the project. Time-based compensation and stipulated sums are most common.
What is involved in the design process?
◦ After the initial meeting we will be in touch to make sure that you are fully satisfied. We will then develop a client brief including drawings from your ideas and concepts including information about budget and timescale.
What’s my role in the design process?
◦ Your architect will depend on you to communicate about your design preferences, functional requirements, and budget. Your timely response to questions and design submissions will help keep the project on track. It is also important for you to raise any concerns you have as the project proceeds, so they can be addressed in the earliest stages. Working in partnership with your architect, you will help achieve a successful outcome for your project.
