How to Work With An Architect

Fratantoni Design • November 12, 2020

Whether it’s a remodel or a new build these are some tips on how to work with an architect to achieve your dream home.

How to Work with An Architect

You’ll usually need to hire an architect if you’re starting a new build or adding to the footprint of your home and need the lot to meet the building codes. Architect’s help their clients to design beautiful custom homes that fit their lifestyle and needs. Hiring a professional to help you bring your visions into reality can help make the process go a lot smoother. If you’re working with an architect for the first time these are some tips to set, you up for success.

Communication is Key

When you’re interviewing architects to hire for your project make sure you can see yourself getting along with them. You want to make sure they make you feel comfortable. If you feel confident and able to communicate with your architect, it will make the process a lot easier. Keep in mind you will be spending a lot of time and money with this professional so make sure you can see yourselves working well together.

Beginning the Process

In the beginning, your architect will have a series of questions in place to help them understand your style, needs, wants, and visions for your home. You must come prepared with an idea of what architectural features or inspirational photos for your project. This way your architect will get a good idea of what your style is and what your likes and dislikes are.

The Design Phase

Based on this meeting your architect will start creating sketches for your plans. Make sure you’re carefully reviewing the plans. Make sure you both are on the same page when it comes to the design goals. Once you both have agreed on the initial layout and plans the final construction plans will be drawn up. These are the blueprints for your contractor to follow on how to build your house. During this stage, it will be a lot harder to change any plans so make sure you are vocal in the beginning about what you want.

Conclusion: How to Work with An Architect

If you like our work and would like to consider Fratantoni Design as your architect feel free to contact us. We look forward to helping you design you forever home.

The post How to Work With An Architect appeared first on Fratantoni Design.

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