FAQs

An architect is a trained professional who can efficiently and cost-effectively translate your needs and desires into a beautifully designed space that elevates your daily life. They navigate the complexities of building codes, materials, and contractor coordination, transforming your vision into reality while minimizing costly errors. A home designed by an architect is not only deeply fulfilling but also enhances the property’s financial value.

Traditionally, architects charge fees as a percentage (typically 5-15%) of the construction cost or at an hourly rate. At our studio, we begin with a concept design for a fixed fee. After the concept stage, our architectural fees are based on the estimated construction cost, cross-referenced with our projected design and drafting time. We don’t increase fees for client preferences toward higher-cost items, but we do account for additional detailing time if required. Our fees are clearly defined at the project’s outset and are broken down by each stage of the design and construction process.

Each project has its own unique set of constraints, but residential projects typically require 6 to 12 months from the start of design to the beginning of construction. Construction timelines vary by project; renovations generally take 3 to 8 months, while new builds often require 9 to 14 months to complete.

Keeping costs under control is a top priority for us, and we implement a range of strategies to manage expenses. At the outset of each project, we calculate a rough estimate by comparing it to similar completed projects and determining an estimated cost per square foot. As the design progresses, we prepare interim drawings and specifications, enabling a contractor to provide a preliminary estimate. While this isn’t the final cost, it serves as a reliable approximation unless there are significant changes in design, materials, or other elements. We monitor the budget closely at each stage, reviewing it before every meeting and promptly notifying the client of any adjustments.