Working with an Architect: What to Expect?

Fratantoni Design • September 1, 2020

This article will discuss what to expect when working with an architect.

Working with an Architect: What to expect?

If you are looking to build or remodel a home, you might be looking into hiring an experienced architect. An architect will be able to take all of our design and budgeting goals to create a real plan and design to fit your needs. Here is what you can expect when working with an architect.

What an Architect Does

  1. Understand your goals for design and budget to create a house plan that fits your needs.
  2. Draw the plans and elevations of your home to meet your goals and the building and zoning codes.
  3. Work with your builder closely to make sure that your home is built to the standards of the drawing.

The Design Process

When choosing your architect each firm will work a little differently. It’s important that you can communicate with your architect and can trust them. Reviewing their testimonials and portfolio can help make the decision for which architect best fits you. When working with the Fratantoni Design team of experienced architects you can trust you’re in good hands.

The design process starts with an initial meeting where we can understand your lifestyle, needs, likes, and dislikes. This first step is important to make sure we understand your style and design goals. We always want to make sure we are on the same page with the project. Next, we would go through the phases of designing the plan. In this step, we are working with you to approve every feature and layout for your dream home. Once the plans have been approved our team will draw up the documents to submit the blueprints and get the builders permit. Finally, we will be working closely with your builder to make sure that the plans are built to your standards and goals.

Conclusion: Working with an Architect: What to expect?

There are a lot of experienced architects to choose from. The most crucial part of your project is making sure you’re hiring the right one. The team at Fratantoni Design has been designing and building homes all over the work for over 30 years. If you’re looking to hire an expert in luxury homes, feel free to contact us to start on your project. We look forward to hearing from you.

The post Working with an Architect: What to Expect? appeared first on Fratantoni Design.

By Sam Fratantoni May 21, 2026
The Sonoran Desert is stunning, but it’s unforgiving. As temperatures climb, true luxury isn't just about what a home looks like—it's about how it performs. You shouldn't have to feel the extremes of the desert unless you choose to step outside. Enter the "Smart Shell." This concept completely rethinks how a custom home handles the intense Arizona sun. It requires a specific architectural approach where hard engineering and high-end design work together right from the initial sketch. Relying strictly on massive mechanical air conditioning to fight the heat is an outdated strategy. Today, we have to design from the outside in. We engineer a protective envelope that responds to the sun, stopping the heat long before it breaches the interior walls. 
By Sam Fratantoni May 12, 2026
Spatial volume defines the true character of a luxury home. The distance between the floor and the ceiling dictates how natural light interacts with the room and influences the emotional resonance of the space. Mastering ceiling height strategy elevates a residence from merely large to truly magnificent. A thoughtfully designed vertical axis transforms ordinary rooms into breathtaking architectural achievements.
By Sam Fratanoni May 7, 2026
The geographical setting of a property dictates more than just the breathtaking view from the window. It defines the entire structural philosophy of a custom estate. Crafting a home that respects its environment requires a profound understanding of nature and absolute luxury.  Every landscape possesses a unique rhythm that brilliant architecture must seamlessly echo. Whether overlooking crashing waves or vast arid canyons, the design must elevate the natural surroundings. True architectural mastery harmonizes extreme environmental demands with uncompromising comfort and elegance.
By Sam Fratantoni April 29, 2026
Grandeur reveals itself the moment a front door opens. A staircase is far more than a functional transition between levels. It is a profound sculptural masterpiece that commands attention and sets the tone for the entire residence. Mastering this architectural focal point requires profound expertise. At Fratantoni Design , we approach large scale stairs as intricate works of art. Every curve and angle must balance breathtaking beauty with exacting mathematical precision.
Architectural Blueprint for Multigenerational Luxury Estates
By Sam Fratantoni April 24, 2026
Discover how luxury multigenerational estates blend privacy, elegance, and functional design through custom architecture, construction, and interior planning.
Luxury architecture and interior design team standing in an elegant custom home entryway
By Sam Fratantoni April 16, 2026
Learn how to choose the right architecture firm for your custom home with expert insight on luxury design, planning, interiors, and construction.
Modern Luxury Home Design
By Sam Fratantoni April 9, 2026
Floor plan flow shapes how every room feels and functions. Discover why architectural flow is one of the most critical elements in luxury home design.
Large, ornate mansion with a fountain and extensive green lawn under a partly cloudy sky.
By Sam Fratantoni April 2, 2026
Involving your architect before interior design begins protects flow, function, and proportion. Learn why sequence matters in luxury custom home planning.
Luxury Entryway Design
By Sam Fratantoni March 25, 2026
Your entryway sets the tone for everything that follows. Discover how to design a luxury statement entrance that defines the character of your entire home.
great luxury floor plan balances beauty, function, and lifestyle
By Sam Fratantoni March 20, 2026
A great luxury floor plan balances beauty, function, and lifestyle. Explore our complete 2026 guide to designing custom home floor plans that truly perform.