Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 22, 1999 03:33am | #1

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   Hi lucky you,

   I think I would advise looking for a qualified project manager instead.

   Find one that you feel comfortable with and let him guide you through the process. If you have a difficult lot, etc. the foundation will have to be structurally sound and the designs will have to be practical as well.

   Check references, don't just look at them and nod, check and call. Go see the houses, make sure you're not calling his brother in law.

   When you're satisfied, let him or her do their job and you should be fine.

   Gabe

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 22, 1999 04:14am | #2

   *Many architects seem to have a limited understanding of the trades and building, some are very knowledgable. As suggested a PM may be better for some of what you describe.Assuming you want design skills there are truly gifted architects who have vision and style and creativity as well as the ability to have it stand up and meet code. Some unfortunately focus on the nuts and bolts.And there's the issue of taste. Better to find an architect whose taste is like yours or who will accomodtae yours (unless you have no preferences and want somebody else to tell you what you want, but having reached retirement age you probably have some preferences). Ask for examples of completed work and select from the ones whose work you like.And the ability of personalities to work together. Beware the prima donna.And of course budget.

2. 
   Philip_Lawrence | Jul 22, 1999 04:29am | #3

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   Dear Retired:
   A vacation house can be a place very special and unlike other speculative buildings. As an Architect I would suggest finding a fellow architect for this job first and a construction manager soon after w/ the help of the chosen architect (remembering that the architect is an owener-agent).

   Find someone who has done work you, atleast on the surface, "value." Then a face to face meeting is most important.

   You have to find someone you like and someone you can see "informing" you regularly; then, ask them how they intend to keep you informed, what's their METHOD of communicating. Since they will undoubtedly be introducing new ideas, material choices, etc., and putting those into a framework of budget, you have to feel like your talking to your best friend, open and unabashed.

   Ask this person what it is they value putting into their archtecture. Ask to see their work either in print or in person, and yes, references are necessary. As a person interested in them, you should be able to see some of what they say they value in the work they show you. Their former clients should be able to help you out w/ that one.

3. 
   Guest_ | Jul 22, 1999 04:57am | #4

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   I would suggest finding a design/build firm that could take on all aspects of this project. 2000 sq ft is relatively small. Architects fees on this project could be considerable. A project manager will prove of no value if you are going to use a general contractor anyway, and if you are going to serve as your own general contractor you will need plans to begin with.

   Ask your neighbors. If there are homes in the area you especially like, talk to the owners. If you get recommendations, check references. A good track record is the best you can hope for.

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 22, 1999 06:01am | #5

   *I agree with Mike, a project manager on your size house will just increase costs and add one more link in the chain of communication.You know, like playing telephone.If you're retired you should have the time to do your homework and find a good architect and general contractor.Check references, look at their work, find people you can work and feel comfortable with.Also, I would make a list of what you'd like to have in a vacation home and bring it to whoever you chose to work with.It will give them a place to start.Vince

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 22, 1999 06:16am | #6

   *Retired;I definitely agree with checking references. I also strongly recommend visiting some of the completed projects of architect and/or contractor. Choosing an architect and/or contractor is kind of like jury selection. If you pick the wrong people, you better have a very good lawyer. Spend some time up front and it will save you a lot of headaches later on.Good luck, Sir.

4. 
   Brian_K. | Jul 22, 1999 06:56am | #7

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   They are like a..holes, pick anyone, they all smell...and cost...boy do they cost. Brian K.

5. 
   Guest_ | Jul 22, 1999 08:42am | #8

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   As an Architect I don't take offense at the way some folks have a bad impression of the value of our services. No question - a poor Architect, or one working outside of his/her expertise, is a serious waste of money. If you want the sales pitch, visit http://www.aiaonline.com/ and follow consumer information buttons. Here are a few comments that may help as well.

   Don't rely on an architect to prepare a cost estimate. A contractor is better for that. You may want to select both an Architect and a Contractor up front. Have them work together with each responsible for what they do best. Don't expect everything to work out perfectly by itself, even if you have picked good professional firms. You will have to roll up your sleeves and work closely with all parties to ensure they understand your needs.

   A difficult site leans you toward hiring an Architect or structural engineer. Architects outside of their expertise can be pretty stupid, but that goes for Contractors as well. I've heard flatland builders propose some construction solutions is hilly situations that would be major problems down the road.

   Here's the best advice - visit several houses nearby that you admire. Find out how they came to be built. Stock plans? Design/build? Full-blown Architect route? There's your answer. If you are happy with a fairly conventional house then the Architect is a waste of time and money. If your imagination is excited by unusual and highly detailed houses then an Architect's fee might be money well spent.

   Another good test of whether or not you need an Architect is to read Sarah Susankah's "The Not So Big House" (Taunton Press). If you appreciate her message then an Architect is worth considering.

   Best of Luck.

6. 
   Philip_Lawrence | Jul 22, 1999 07:41pm | #9

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   Ditto what Dave W. said.

7. 
   Guest_ | Jul 23, 1999 01:02am | #10

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   I agree that 2000 sf is pretty small for the average architect and that a Residential Designer or Design/build firm should be considered.

   They usually do their own work not relying on apprentices. There is no garantee an architect will be any more creative than a designer and it is likely a residential designer has done a LOT more residences. Common prices for architects on small homes are 10% to 15% and up -where Designers commonly charge 1% to 5% of the value of construction. Expect extras for difficult lots (Geotechs structural engineers and surveyors etc)Also check if interior design and landscape design are included.

   There is no excuse for not checking out his/her previous work and personality IS important for a smooth job.

8. 
   Retired_ | Jul 23, 1999 03:05am | #11

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   I can't thank you enough for your comments. They all sound right on target and I will use the info you have offered as I meet with some in early August.
   Thanks again,
   Retired

1. 
   Todd_Goertzen | Jul 23, 1999 08:02am | #12

   *I agree with the "find a Designer AND a General Contractor" school of thought. Locate an architect that has design sense that blends with yours. Bring the GC in early. Pay them a negotiated preconstruction fee to look at the constructability of your designers plans and to develope a working budget. Build a team and make sure they can work together, clearly define roles! An architect is the Owners agent but you are going to sign a very binding agreement with your builder. Work with someone you trust and don't be afraid to say thanks and "good job" (and always pay on time!). Also, note that I use "designer" vs "Architect". There are alot of unlicensed people out there that can create for you a wonderful vacation home.

1. 
   Ray_Kovachik | Jul 23, 1999 08:04am | #13

   *I agree with what Dave Wright said, hits it all right on the nail. As an structural engineer, I'm aware there are two kinds of architects out there. There's the "technical" architect, the one that is a nuts and bolts guy, the one that really knows how to detail and build things. The other I call a "pretty picture" architect. This one I always hate dealing with, he goes for looks and doesn't understand what makes a house stand up (or any building for that matter). Best advice is to check around, check their work and find someone you're confy with. A good Architect will know when to call in reinforcements such as an engineer or surveyor. He also should know the local codes inside and out, you might get a pretty set of plans but never knew you had to get a variance of some sort. Good luck.

9. 
   Retired_ | Jul 23, 1999 08:04am | #14

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   I need your thoughts on what to consider when selecting an architect for a 2000' vacation home to be built in the mountains four hours from where I live, on a difficult lot. The expected services are limited to preparation of plans, and other services as requested ie. estimates, contractor selction & so forth.