Blueprint for Success

As you interview potential architects for your project, don’t expect them to draw up blueprints right away. It’s a common misconception that architects produce drawings as a first step. In fact, the drawing phase is during the middle, if not near the end, of the project. Before blueprints are created, an architect needs to know a lot about you, your house, and your goals. This is the first step in the process, which many architects call the “programming” phase.

Architects suggest that you come to the initial meeting with a list of priorities; the elements of your house that you’d like to change if you’re planning a remodeling project, or a wish list for your new place; an estimated budget; and a timeline. These specifics help the architect to know the project’s scope and detail, and if it is right for them.

“We would sit down and visit with you about what you want to do,” says George Cundy, principal and partner at Cundy Santine and Associates, LLC, in Shoreview. “We’re finding out if we’re comfortable with you and if you’re comfortable with us.”

Expect your architect to work within your likes and dislikes. If the word “architect” makes you think of the distinctive styles of Frank Gehry or Frank Lloyd Wright, you’ve got the wrong idea. While most architects have a style they prefer, almost all will create a look that’s right for you. “If your existing house is a Tudor home on the Lake of the Isles, then the addition should be a Tudor addition,” says Tim Quigley, principal of Quigley Architects in Minneapolis. “We don’t have one design we’re trying to hoist on people. We try to tailor the design to the client’s taste.”

Architects can tell you if your estimated budget is realistic. The budget will entail both the design fees and services of the architect, and the construction costs of your project. Be open and honest about your budget; know what you want to spend and plan for things to come up as the project progresses.

Design fees vary by firm. Some architects charge a per-hour rate, others charge a percentage fee, such as 10 percent of the project’s cost, or a fixed rate.

Firm structure varies too. Most firms will have several licensed architects, along with other associates, all of whom may work on your project. Some firms are “design/build,” meaning that the contractor or builder is part of the firm. Awad’s partner, Jim Koontz, is a builder, so an entire project from initial design to completed construction is managed through the company. There are many pros and cons to using a design/build firm: There won’t be a competitive construction bidding process, so it may or may not be the right decision for your project budget. But all the project phases will be handled by the same firm, offering convenience and streamlined contacts. You’ll want to weigh these factors as you interview architects.