Why Hire an Architect ?
Benefits For The Client

Architecture is the art of creating and forming spaces for people to live, work, play, worship, entertain and gather in. The appropriate architectural design includes a blended harmony and integration of exterior and interior elements. Getting the functions of these spaces right is the first job. By considering all relevant factors - your property, codes, budget, etc. Design options are then fully explored, evaluated, and reviewed. Architecture involves constant challenge and examination of alternatives to perform any one function. And, good architecture mandates communication with you, the client, to determine the relative merits and implications of each potential solution. Research, analysis, and integration of our client's needs result in environments of the highest quality and aesthetic.

Outstanding Architecture involves more than the assessment of purely practical consideration. It involves an artful manipulation of subjective elements.

• Shaping functions in a stimulating, pleasant, properly-scaled space
• Balancing the natural and artificial light for pleasing effects while taking into account the time and seasonal changes.
• Dramatizing a view, linking space and structure with its neighbors and environment

Do you need an Architect-Engineer?

Laws vary by region, but generally an architect-engineer is required to perform the design and review of construction for new buildings, renovations or additions with a floor area of over 6,000 square feet. The exception to this is the building type known as Assembly Buildings, such as schools, community center, theater, libraries, swimming pools, etc., where the services of an architect are required regardless of the floor area of the proposed construction. While law mandates certain situations, there are more important reasons for retaining the services of a good Architect.

The Architect-Engineer's Role - Benefits for Clients

Architects' expertise is design - they can help you develop a well-conceived project with lasting value. A skilled architect can help you avoid the headaches and ensure the process of designing and building your project runs smoothly. Architects are trained to consider the 'big picture' - from assessing the potential of your property through to minute construction details.

A good Architect has the ability to conceptualize, and to communicate ideas effectively - - to clients, engineers, government officials and construction crews. Your architect is the person who coordinates all the details and the varied expertise required to design and build a project, so good organizational skills are critical.

Your project can be an exciting undertaking that should be enjoyable and rewarding. But without careful planning, it could easily become overwhelming, difficult, frustrating and costly.

By drawing on the expertise of a skilled architect, you will be able to make informed and confident decisions that won't leave you second-guessing. The Architect will keep you informed of options, as well as benefits, risks, or implications of each choice throughout the design and construction of a project.

An architect can address your concerns and provide guidance - while remaining entirely objective and looking out for your interest. Architects are in the unique position of providing completely unbiased advice to you - as long as their fees are not based on the construction cost. (There would be no benefit for an architect to recommend a certain product, for example, where there could be for sales reps, builders, and so on.)

A skilled architect can save you money by helping you avoid trouble spots and expensive oversights, advising how to keep costs down, evaluating material options, and by helping you find the builder best qualified for your project.

An architect will help ensure that your project is built as intended - by communicating effectively with the contractor and building inspectors, reviewing the builder's performance, and assisting with any unforeseen situations that may arise.