What does an architect do?
Why do I need or want one? Such loaded questions! Beyond the most general definition of designing and drawing buildings, professional services can vary based on a firm’s specialty and approach. Be sure to do your research when looking for someone to design your project.
In the narrow lens of residential architecture, here are some benefits to working with an architect:
Holistic Vision and Planning
An architect can take your “wish list” and pain points and turn them into a clear, functional design tailored to your lifestyle and spatial needs. While you may know you need more storage, an architect can help you allocate it to the right locations without unnecessarily inflating your square footage and budget.
Problem-Solving and Creativity
While function is always top of mind, an architect will also consider flow, balance, scale, materiality, light and so many other factors when designing a space. It’s that extra level of detail you may not be able to describe in words but you can feel it when you see it.
Guidance Through Complexity
Many hands will touch even the smallest projects, including contractors, trades, city officials, structural and civil engineers, landscape architects and interior designers, and countless vendors. The architect can be the “glue” that holds everything together and advise on who needs to be involved and when. Any project should go through an early zoning review to make sure your goals are compatible with the property.
Some projects may be required to be sealed by a licensed architect but most residential work in Tennessee is not. Be sure to consult your local regulations.
Documentation and Communication
Drawings are architects’ “love language”. Words can be confusing and hold different meaning for everyone. Detailed drawings help remove the guesswork as we design your project as well as when countless sub-contractors come through. Spelling out as many products and details as possible ahead of time will reduce surprises and misunderstandings. (Spoiler alert: even the tightest set of drawings will not eliminate mistakes so be sure to plan on a contingency!)
Budget and Timeline Management
Ideally, any project will have a rockstar TEAM of the architect, client, and contractor. Each has a clear role but everyone wants the project to succeed. The builder will ultimately have the most control over budget and timeline but the architect will be able to provide accountability through the process to keep everything on track without compromising on quality.
Sustainable and Lasting Design
Architects design with longevity in mind, focusing on quality materials and practices that add long-term value to your home and neighborhood. We know ‘the heart wants what the heart wants’ but an architect can help advise on the best way to spend your valuable resources. We’re aware of the “trends” but try to design for the long haul that won’t go out of style in a few years.
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And that’s not even getting into the nitty gritty details of planning and drawing and selecting! Is that more or less than you thought the role of architect would include?
Reach out to schedule a call if your current or future home could use some help in these areas and more.
