This post first ran in 2018.
Many people think of an architect as someone who designs large, important buildings – a visionary who dreams up new and bold designs, like New York’s Guggenheim Museum (Frank Lloyd Wright) or Chicago’s Aqua tower (Jeanne Gang). And of course, architects do that.
But an architect does much more than dream and draw; she also provides essential, practical services to keep any building project, big or small, running smoothly, efficiently and economically.
An Architect Provides Design Services
The creative process for each architect is different, but every project is – or should be – a collaboration between client and architect. Design considerations go far beyond the aesthetic, and a good architect listens to a client and presents him or her not with a set design but with options that the architect believes will meet the client’s needs and budget.
As important as design skills is the architect’s ability to communicate effectively with a client to ensure that what’s in the architect’s head accurately reflects the client’s dream.
For example, I recently worked with a client who wanted to build an accessory dwelling unit on his property for his parents. His original idea had been to build in his backyard, which was on a hill. Because building on a steep slope can be expensive, I suggested he consider using a flatter area of the yard. When we discussed options, we determined that a garage conversion would be faster – which was an important consideration – and allow him the flexibility to build a new garage at the same time or later, if he preferred.
Once a design is settled on, the architect continues to work closely with the client to modify the design, if necessary, to address any challenges that arise and ensure the client has the information they need to make the best decisions with the resources available.
An Architect Navigates the Intersection Between Design and Function
Beautiful design means nothing if it isn’t functional.
An architect understands what makes a space work. Her practical knowledge of materials and construction can help you understand how your dreams will translate into real life and help you prioritize what’s most important.
Armed with a good understanding of your needs, your architect can advise you on how to make a design work best for your lifestyle.
Have your heart set on a particular refrigerator model? Your architect can tell you if your kitchen design will work with it and offer options for modifications if necessary.
If you live in one of the Bay Area’s hot microclimates, she can suggest options you may not have considered – like longer eaves – to increase solar shading to keep your home cool. She can suggest design solutions to seemingly intractable problems, like unattractive views or unusual room dimensions.
An Architect Understands Local Building Codes and Conditions
Building codes can be a complex maze of federal, state and municipal regulations, and understanding them can make the difference between a project that goes smoothly and efficiently and one that gets mired in delays and unforeseen costs.
A local architect is familiar with all the pertinent codes and regulations that apply to a project and knows the ins and outs of local permitting processes, which can vary significantly from city to city.
In Marin, for example, the county requires that each single-family home have two off-street parking spaces. As an architect who lives and works in the area, I know that some municipalities have additional requirements, such as covered parking spaces, while others do not. The specific requirements for each area are accommodated in every design option I present to a client from the beginning, so there are no surprises after we’ve agreed on a design.
An Architect Creates a Level Playing Field During Construction
An architect acts as an intermediary between the contractor and a client. Like any professional, a contractor has specialized knowledge that the client often doesn’t possess, and he will often make suggestions for changes during the building process.
While these may be made with the client’s best interest at heart, sometimes the changes can have ramifications for other aspects of the project which neither the contractor nor the client may be aware of. An architect knows the big picture and can help a client understand what any proposed change means for the rest of the design. She can also ensure the contractor understands the client’s priorities and needs.
For example, a conscientious contractor may suggest to a client that making a tall kitchen counter a little shorter could save money and materials without any noticeable change in the look. As the architect, however, I know that the client entertains frequently and has selected a particular dishwasher to accommodate large dinner parties. That dishwasher may not fit if the counters are lowered by even a quarter inch.
An Architect Guides the Client Through the Process
Going through a building or renovation project can be overwhelming for clients. There are so many decisions to be made, adjustments to consider, pitfalls to avoid and, often, so many people involved, that it can begin to feel like an emotional rollercoaster.
An architect acts as a guide through this maze of uncertainty, offering the client options, providing direction, answering questions and generally helping to keep him feeling well informed and on top of things.
A big part of this service is helping clients understand what to expect from the process. How long will each phase take? How much will it cost and when should I pay? How much disruption should I expect?
I do my best to give clients a realistic budget and timeline and to help them get through the difficult parts as they come up, whether that’s making sure demolition mess is dealt with or providing tips for living in your house while renovating your kitchen.
As an architect, I wear many hats: dreamer, designer, advisor, communicator, project manager – but the most important is advocate. I strive to ensure that you are heard, understood and satisfied. This is your dream and, ultimately, your reality. If I’ve done my job well, they meet in a seamless union that enhances your life for years.