Maybe you’re just thinking about a new building project, or you’ve decided to begin one. One of the first things you should do is begin working with an architect.
Many people are not sure how to hire an architect or if they can afford the service. But an architect is able to design a project that can actually help save money in the long run. With a well designed plan, you can avoiding potential problems and catching mistakes before a project is built out. Working with an architect can in fact make your project a success and headache-free.
You may know exactly what you want in your home, or just have some ideas. In either scenario,the architect takes your ideas and fleshes them out into proper drawings, and eventually, the finished project. Your architect does more than design a visually pleasing building. He will plan, design and oversee the construction of the structure. Your architect will often collaborate with experts in related fields, such as interior designers, city planning and structural engineering.
Here are some things to know before you begin.
Establish Your Budget Before Your First Meeting
You will want to decide how much do you have to spend on your project. It’s vital that your architect know this to ensure that the project stays within that limit. If you don’t tell them, your architect could design something that you’ll be enamored with but exceeds your budget. You and your architect can discuss costs of materials and other budgetary items and work to come up with what can realistically be done within your budget.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to keep your project within that set budget, but you must communicate your wishes to the architect. You do not want any financial surprises or disappointments.
Choosing The Right Architect
When your project starts, you’ll spend a considerable amount of time with this person. Therefore, it’s important to choose the right architect for your project. This means finding someone you feel comfortable working and someone you trust. Your architect should be proud to show you past projects and explain their credentials, experience, and expertise. You’ll be the one living with the completed project built for you. A good relationship with your architect is vital.
Asking around for referrals can help you find the right one by checking with friends, family, or community members. For example in Maui, Hawaii, Pro Draft, Inc is a company that offers architectural and consulting services and works with architects on a regular basis and may be a good resource for referrals to architects they would recommend you interview.
Project Timelines
Whether new construction or renovations, every project takes time to draft and create prior to implementation. Each part of the project involves time constraints and you will want a realistic timeline for completion. Nothing is more frustrating than a project that goes beyond the expected finish date.
An experienced architect establishes the timeline for the project at the outset. This timeline can include building rights, building codes, feasibility, various permits, and other planning before construction can begin. Proper permitting is important to obtain so the project does not run into issues. Again you wan to be informed ahead of time so you understand the timeline of your project.
Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions
Your relationship with your architect is not one-sided. It’s a working relationship with input from both you and your architect as well as other parties like a contractor or project manager. This is especially true if you’re building your new home.
Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions whenever you need clarification. Your architect will want to make sure you understand why things are being done. If you have any concerns, share them with your architect. It could be anything from the timeline, costs, the workers abilities, or any other aspect of the project.
If you’re not sure of something, you don’t like something or are being pushed toward something that doesn’t fit your needs or vision, it’s up to you to be honest and say so. Ultimately, it’s your project, and it’s your place to ensure that it’s done to your specifications and within your budget.
Let Pro Draft Design Your Next Building Project
Pro Draft has been helping homeowners and business owners realize their design visions for over 30 years. We work with your architect or can help you find an architect. We understand the unique nature of building in Maui and will work to make sure your renovations or new construction is exactly as you envisioned.
We can help with architecture, drawings, blueprints, permits, and design work, and answer all your questions before the first day of construction. We’re happy to help and will work to ensure your project is exactly the way you envision.
Call Pro Draft today at (808) 579-9050 or 1-800-499-4699 from the Mainland