When we think of architects, we think of the great Franks: Gehry and Lloyd Wright. But not every structure is built like a Gugghenheim — by and large, architects work on a far humbler scale. Take our barn renovation: in order to acquire a building permit we needed a set of basic architectural drawings. That’s when we hired our very own Frank.
I initially questioned the need to hire an architect. I thought today’s breed solely designed mind-twisting skyscrapers, leaving contractors to handle matters on the ground. But our barn presented its own lofty design challenges. And while many contractors do provide design and drafting services, ours proposed hiring an architect. Rem Koolhaas was already working on a barn in Abu Dhabi, so we went with a local guy.
First, we invited him round to check out the space. After a thorough walk-through and explanation of our design goals, he told us he’d get back to us with an estimate. Shortly thereafter, he emailed us a “design agreement,” a detailed document itemizing his compensation, scope of service and work schedule. We were initially dissatisfied with the estimate, but he scaled a couple items back and slashed the price to our liking. Once he received a 50% down payment, he measured and photographed the barn for his drawings. In addition to his "design time," his services included a “code compliance review,” in which he ensured the renovations met the town's building codes. A month later, after a series of back-and-forths concerning layout and building materials, he delivered the drawings.
Could we have proceeded without a set of drawings and a permit, saving ourselves a bit of time and money? Absolutely. Yet we would have risked a hefty fine from the town or, even worse, an order to demolish any unpermitted construction. That said, hiring an architect isn’t all about covering your ass — a good architect will transform your layman’s vision into a valuable working plan. A set of drawings will smooth the process of acquiring a building permit and provide your contractor with useful construction guidelines. Just make sure they don't pull any of that "starchitect" business or you might end up with a ten-story glass minaret poking out of your attic.
Images: Johnny Williams
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Comments (10)
What a great article. As an an architect struggling with the realities of this horrible economy, anytime we get a shout-out from clients that see the inherent value we bring to the table with our experience and education - I say "thank you."
However, I would argue two points with you. Without an architect, you would have spent more time and more money. Not might, would. The second, well, not everyone is a comedian (or an architect).
The best clients are the ones that proscribe to the philosophy of assembling a team for a project; client, architect and builder. That team together is very strong. You have a dream, I interpret it and the builder builds it. I hope the next time you embark on a design or construction project you hire an architect from the beginning. But please, there is no need to be snarky or glib about it.
thanks dvlndts...the humor was lost on me too.
me three.
Me four.
I am married to an architect, not a starchitect but an architect. A person who studies codes, setbacks and zoning laws along with materials, applications and, finally, design. The amount of time and energy that goes into his work astounds me.
I never imagined spaces could be transformed so dramatically before I met him.
Nor could I ever have dreamed living in the quality of space I get to live in now, had I not opened my mind and heart to an architect.
It's a shame that so few people recognize the true value in an architect's work outside of the shocking buildings popping up by starchitects around the world.
The title says "hiring an architect" so I was hoping for some information on actually hiring an architect other than "we went with a local guy"! Was there a review of portfolios? Visits to previous completed jobs? or did they just throw a dart at the Yellow Pages???
t3d - I'd be happy to give you some advice anytime. A great place to start is here:
http://architectfinder.aia.org/
Best of luck on your project.
t3d:
Ordinarily when my husband gets hired, potential clients will have several meetings with him, will visit previous projects, look through his portfolio and have the opportunity to speak to his previous clients if they like. Websites should also show the majority of projects.
When I called an architect about building a house, I was less than impressed. He wanted payment to even have a first meeting to hear about what I wanted. I ended up buying an older house, just to avoid dealing with an architect. Then built a barn myself with plans from a friend. Permits are easy to get. I don't live there anymore, but have been told that my barn is still standing 15 years later.
Sounds like a crappy architect. I wish my husband could get paid before a potential client! I guess only lawyers and doctors and architects from 15 years ago have that ability.
dvindtis - thanks very much for the link!
Unfortunately there's very little info for Canada,
but I'll do Google search.
jennyd - thanks for the info regarding steps to take.
I assumed that is what would be needed to
get an idea if you have a good "fit" with the architect.
Thanks again to both of you!
t3d