Choosing a good custom home architect is important because they will be working with you on every step of the process from start to finish. They should have experience designing homes that look like yours so they know what it takes to make sure everything looks just right. You also need someone who has worked with other clients before and knows how to work well with them. If your budget allows, try looking for an architect who specializes in building custom homes. This way you can get exactly what you want without having to compromise on quality or design.
What Is a Custom Home?
A custom home is one built specifically for you by a professional builder. It’s not something you buy at a big box store where there are thousands of options available. A custom home is designed especially for you based on your needs and wants. There may be some standard features included but most often these are things such as hardwood floors, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, etc. But if you don’t see anything you like then you won’t find it anywhere else! The first thing you’ll do when choosing a custom home designer is decide which type of house you’d prefer: ranch style, colonial, contemporary, traditional, modern, Mediterranean, Cape Cod…the list goes on. Then choose between single-family houses, townhouses, condos, multi-unit buildings, commercial properties, industrial spaces, and more. Next, determine whether you’re interested in new construction or remodeling/refurbishing. Finally, consider location – proximity to schools, shopping centers, parks, transportation routes, etc. Once all this information is gathered together, you’ll begin searching for a custom home architect.
The importance of having an architect
Having an architect involved throughout the entire project helps ensure that your dream home comes true. An experienced architect will help you create a plan that meets your specific requirements while staying within your budget. He or she will provide guidance through each stage of the build including site selection, architectural planning, interior layout, floor plans, elevations, exterior designs, materials selections, permits, inspections, scheduling, coordination, and much more. In addition, he or she will keep you informed about any changes needed during the course of the project. Your architect will oversee the whole process ensuring that nothing gets overlooked. And since many builders use subcontractors, your architect will coordinate their efforts to avoid delays and mistakes.
An architect’s job is to take ideas and concepts and turn them into reality. When you hire an architect, you give him or her access to your imagination and creativity. Architects draw up blueprints showing rooms and layouts. These drawings include measurements and dimensions. Architectural drawings show the size of windows, doors, ceilings, walls, staircases, fireplaces, kitchens, bathrooms, closets, garages, patios, decks, porches, landscaping, fences, sheds, storage areas, and even parking lots. Some architects specialize in certain types of projects; others focus primarily on residential architecture. They can also work with other professionals who handle different aspects of design, such as engineers, contractors, landscape designers, lighting specialists, and so forth.
An architect draws up detailed plans for everything from small renovations to large additions. This includes designing homes, offices, churches, restaurants, hotels, retail stores, factories, warehouses, banks, hospitals, museums, airports, casinos, theaters, stadiums, theme parks, resorts, golf courses, marinas, bridges, tunnels, highways, office complexes, apartment buildings, condominiums, and private clubs.
How long should I expect my project to last?
Most people think they need only a few weeks to complete a major renovation or add onto their existing home. However, it takes time to get started because every step requires careful consideration. You want to make sure that what you’ve chosen works well with the rest of the space. If you have a lot of furniture, fixtures, artwork, plants, rugs, and other items, you might need to move them out temporarily before starting demolition. Also, remember that you must obtain permits for almost every aspect of the project. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to find all the necessary approvals. It may be easier to start over if you decide not to go ahead with the project after all.
How Much Do Custom Home architects Charge?
The average price for hiring an architect varies depending upon location, experience level, and scope of services required. For example, some architects charge $50 per hour, whereas others charge hourly rates ranging between $150-$300. Most architects offer free consultations to determine whether you’re ready to proceed with construction. Once this initial consultation has been completed, most architects require a deposit equal to 10% of total contract value prior to beginning work. Afterward, payments are made monthly based on progress until completion.
How To Choose the Best Custom Home Architects
Choosing a good custom home designer isn’t as easy as choosing one for any other type of project. There are many things to consider when selecting a custom home builder including their reputation, past projects completed, references, cost estimates, availability, etc. It may take some time to find the perfect fit but once you do, you won’t regret hiring him/her!
If you’re in Northern Colorado and you’re looking for a reliable general contractor and architect who can easily get your custom home done in the best, fastest, and safest way possible, you may want to call Local Map Construction at 720-635-2941 or send an e-mail to get a response ASAP.