How to Afford an Architect
Hiring an architect can seem like a luxury that you can’t afford, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach and knowledge, you can afford architect-quality work at a fraction of the cost, bringing your dream project to life without breaking the bank. Here’s how you can make that happen.
How Do Architects Charge?
Understanding the fee structure of architects is the first step towards affordability. Architects can charge in several ways:
Percentage of the Construction Cost: Often used for larger projects, some architects charge a percentage of the total cost of construction.
Fixed Fee: For well-defined projects, architects may agree to a fixed fee.
Hourly Rate: This is common for smaller projects or consultations.
Per Square Foot: Some architects charge based on the size of the project.
Knowing these methods can help you discuss fees with potential architects and choose the one that fits your budget.
Get Fewer Drawings
Architects produce a variety of drawings and detailed plans. However, not all projects require extensive documentation. Determine the minimum necessary drawings to get your project off the ground and obtain permits. This can significantly reduce the architect's workload and, consequently, the cost.
Use 3D Modeling
Using 3D modeling can save you time and money because it allows you to ‘walk’ the space virtually and get a feel for the designs in real-time. It can be hard for consumers to understand scope and cost from 2D drawings, so 3D models allow you to make the best and most affordable decisions while still getting a home design you love.
Go with an Architectural Designer
If your project doesn't require the expertise of a licensed architect, consider hiring an architectural designer. They are often less expensive and still skilled in design work, though they may not have the same credentials for complex structural projects. Architectural designers are also often the same people in charge of building the home, so you know they won’t design something that is complex or out of your budget.
Architectural Designer vs. Architect
The key difference lies in licensing and education. Architects are licensed professionals who have completed a degree in architecture, undergone a period of internship, and passed a series of rigorous exams. They are equipped to handle a wide range of building projects, including complex designs and structures. Architectural designers, on the other hand, may have similar educational backgrounds but have not completed the licensure process.
Do I Need an Architect?
Deciding whether you need an architect depends on several factors. If your project involves structural changes, such as removing load-bearing walls, or you’re looking to build a highly customized home, an architect's skill set is invaluable. They bring a level of expertise that ensures the safety, functionality, and aesthetic quality of your construction. If you need to navigate complex building codes or local planning regulations, an architect's knowledge can be essential. However, for more straightforward projects, such as interior renovations, new home builds or small additions where structural integrity is not a concern, an architectural designer will suffice.
Make More Decisions Yourself
Every decision made by an architect on your behalf takes time, and time is money. By being more involved and making decisions about materials, finishes, and fittings yourself, you can reduce the hours an architect needs to put into your project. Just be sure not to compromise the project's integrity with uninformed choices.
Affording an architect is about being informed and involved. Understand the payment structures, limit the scope of work, consider alternative professionals, and take charge of decision-making. With these strategies, you can have the expertise of an architect within reach, ensuring your project is beautiful, functional, and, importantly, on budget.
Designer-Builder Benefits
Plan creation is just a stepping stone to the actual building process with both Architectural Designers and Architects. The more complicated that information is, the more it needs to be clearly outlined for the builder. If the designer and the builder are the same, it requires less detail put to paper (ie: fewer pages...and fewer hours’ cost) and the discussions and thought processes that go into the final decisions don’t need to be re-processed and understood by a third party. In the end, this leaves less room for errors and mistranslations which can happen even in the best cases.
Take a look at our portfolio of great design-build options of luxury homes in Hood River and the rest of the Columbia River Gorge.