Architect
An architect plans, designs, and oversees a building's construction. Whether an architect is needed very much depends on the type of project and where it is located. Some towns and cities require architect-stamped blueprints before construction begins, while others don't.
In addition, an architect will probably need to be hired if a project calls for a home addition or the altering of plumbing, electrical, or heating systems. A homeowner can hire a contractor (the person who executes an architect's plans) directly, which often happens during smaller-scale remodels, such as when changes are being made to a single room without breaking down existing walls or altering the home's footprint.
If an architect is needed, there are a few things to consider when choosing the best one. Make sure to ask about a fee structure at the very beginning, as this can make or break any business relationship. Also if no one you know has used this architect, always ask for a past client list with contact information and photos of past projects. In addition to making sure your architect is reliable from past clients, also look carefully at the aesthetics of a firm's past work. Architects are very much involved in the look and feel of construction, so be sure your sense of style matches theirs.
Finally, ask how the work will be done. At larger and busier firms, small projects are sometimes handed off to a more junior architect who isn't present at the initial talks. Oftentimes a general contractor will have a list of preferred architects, which makes selection the process much easier.
In addition, an architect will probably need to be hired if a project calls for a home addition or the altering of plumbing, electrical, or heating systems. A homeowner can hire a contractor (the person who executes an architect's plans) directly, which often happens during smaller-scale remodels, such as when changes are being made to a single room without breaking down existing walls or altering the home's footprint.
If an architect is needed, there are a few things to consider when choosing the best one. Make sure to ask about a fee structure at the very beginning, as this can make or break any business relationship. Also if no one you know has used this architect, always ask for a past client list with contact information and photos of past projects. In addition to making sure your architect is reliable from past clients, also look carefully at the aesthetics of a firm's past work. Architects are very much involved in the look and feel of construction, so be sure your sense of style matches theirs.
Finally, ask how the work will be done. At larger and busier firms, small projects are sometimes handed off to a more junior architect who isn't present at the initial talks. Oftentimes a general contractor will have a list of preferred architects, which makes selection the process much easier.