Should I hire an architect or contractor first? At first glance, this appears to be one of those chicken-or-the-egg questions. However, working with an architect before you start your project can save much more time and money long-term.
Few people realize how complicated architectural development is until they find themselves in a labyrinth of design options, building codes, zoning laws and contractor bids. And because no two projects are alike, there isn’t a clear-cut path to follow. In today’s blog, we’ll be exploring the hidden benefits of hiring an architect before you begin a commercial redevelopment.
An architect has the education, training and experience to guide you through the design development process. When they look at a building, they don’t just see four walls and a roof. They create dynamic spaces that satisfy functional needs and are aesthetically pleasing.
Whether you’re remodeling a building or restoring a historical landmark, an architect will coordinate with contractors and other design professionals to ensure the development meets your budget and timeline. And let’s be honest, development is a long process that’s often messy and disruptive.
We always recommend hiring an architect to assess the property before purchasing it. With their in-depth knowledge of building codes and zoning laws, they’re able to identify any immediate design obstacles. They’re also able to help you find qualified contractors for your project’s specific needs. And during the Construction Administration phase of the project, they’ll visit the construction to ensure the project is being built according to the specifications and drawings.
Working with an architect, you’ll be able to:
- Visualize your project through renderings and presentations and assess design decisions early on. This helps you avoid expensive construction changes.
- Identify your specific wants and needs and work with the architect to ensure the development fits within your budget and desired timeline.
- Feel confident the contractor is building what you want because your architect has coordinated everything according to your goals and months of collaboration.
3 Hidden Benefits of Hiring an Architect Before Purchasing Property
Hiring an architect is a wise investment. Rather than viewing these services as an added cost, architects provide key insights that can affect the overall cost and long-term expenses of your project. Here are three ways an architect can help you cut costs without compromising safety and quality.
1. Simply put, a well-planned project can be built more efficiently.
Architects plan the development with you, not for you. As you come up with ideas and revisions, changes can be made much easier on paper than expensive construction changes later on. Architects excel in analyzing spatial requirements, circulation patterns, and workflow considerations to optimize the use of space. They can create efficient layouts that maximize productivity, accommodate future growth, and enhance the user experience. Their expertise in space planning can lead to cost savings, improved functionality, and a more productive work environment.
2. Architects also take energy into consideration.
They can provide ideas for maximizing heat from the sun, natural lighting and suggest materials to reduce your HVAC and electric output over time. Architects can also help you choose which materials and finishes are the most durable, saving you frequent maintenance costs as well as incorporating passive design strategies that ensure resilience in your project. Passive design allows buildings to rely on natural elements and optimize their performance, resulting in environmentally friendly, comfortable, and cost-effective spaces.
3. And, they play a key component when it comes to budget.
They will provide detailed drawings and specifications, allowing you to obtain construction bids that will cover your project’s desired scope of work. Architects can provide clients with early cost estimates and feasibility analysis during the initial stages of the project. By assessing the project requirements and desired scope, architects can offer insights into potential costs and highlight areas that may require special attention or investment. This information helps clients make informed decisions and set realistic budget expectations.
Hiring an Architect Will Alleviate the Headaches
While architectural services and fees may vary, the investment always pays off. By actively engaging with clients, architects can help them navigate the complexities of budgeting and make informed decisions that balance their goals with financial considerations. The architect’s expertise in design, construction, and project management allows them to provide valuable guidance and support throughout the project, ensuring that the client’s budget is effectively managed without compromising the quality or vision of the architectural design. For more information on hiring an architect or to learn more about our project feasibility services, we encourage you to get in touch with us.
