Should You Hire an Architect?

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

08 Apr 2008 09:27 AM

When you are considering a remodel of a room or an addition to your home, it might be a good idea to hire an architect. After all, unless you have experience, you wouldn't consider designing your own car or even your own formal dress. Yet, many people plunge ahead into projects on their own because they believe that a professional architect would cost far too much to justify one as an expense.

Recently, we saw a home that had an addition on it. While the extra space was a nice addition, it was obvious that the addition did not take full advantage of the style of the home, the layout of the yard and the general flow of the home. The home owners admitted that they still haven't used the new space all that much.

So what are some things to consider when deciding if you should hire an architect? Read on.

First, take a good look at the size of the project. How complex is the undertaking? Are exterior walls being bumped out? Will your project affect any load-bearing walls or grading of the property? Do you have any special features to be added, such as a geo-thermal heating and cooling system? These projects could benefit from an architect and may even require one. Some town or city codes may require the seal of a professional architect before any building permits can be issued.

Next, take a look at your needs and goals. Let's say that you want an extra bedroom added on to your home. Is it better to place it above the garage or add it on to the back of the home. Which option is the most feasible? Would you rather take advantage of natural sunlight to brighten the space or make the home more energy efficient? Can you do both? A professional architect can optimize the layout of your home and take advantage of any natural benefits or obstacles to your current design.

Next up, we will talk about using do it yourself design resources and lowering your overall project costs.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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Samual (11722) 28 Jul 2008 06:39 AM

You have to employ one here so you can aquire planning permission before you begin to build.

Mary Ann Romans (26886) 28 Jul 2008 08:44 AM

Does your town require an architect to approve any plans or just file the paperwork?

Samual (11722) 28 Jul 2008 12:01 PM

In the UK your local council has to approve the plans which must be drawn up by an architect, the plans also have to be made public so people can put forward their reasons for not wanting the building/extension. This is required for some wooden sheds as well. If there are many complaints you will be refused planning, if not and the council are satisfied it wont be a blot on the landscape you may be approved. If you don't have an architect, you can't plan building work, as there is no one to plan it all out and ensure the correct materials are used.

Mary Ann Romans (26886) 29 Jul 2008 04:44 AM

Thank you for the information Samual. You are very knowledgeable. Here in the states it varies by town. You can often get a town permit for a small addition without the use of an architect, although a professional makes the job easier. Some towns require a professional architect to draw up plans no matter what the project.