Think short order cook to chef – both have important jobs to do but they differ.
If you are up for grabbing a quick bite to eat and don’t have time to dawdle, a diner might be your first choice. But if you are invested in the getting the best meal, and want to enjoy the entire dining experience, you may search out the restaurant with the finest reviews and a chef dedicated to creating a meal to remember.
Small home improvement projects
Not all improvement/remodeling projects require a designer or architect. Is your home project straightforward and doesn’t involve structural changes? Think of something like replacing old windows and doors, adding a small deck and fencing the yard. Working with a builder alone would be a logical choice.
Bigger remodeling challenges
If you are renovating an older kitchen, moving plumbing, knocking out a wall or considering a room addition, an architect can help with concepts and required specifications. Brought in from the very beginning, an architect can listen to why you want the changes and help you visualize the possibilities for the new spaces while meeting codes and safety standards. The building science underpins the beauty and facility of a design. You’ll also want an architect to consider how the new design will fit into your home’s original configuration and that of your neighborhood.
Builders play a key role in following the architectural plans to take a vision and turn it into reality. In the best-case scenario, an architect and a builder will work together seamlessly. A complex remodeling project needs the unique skills of both, to bring a vision to fruition.
If differences do crop up between a builder and homeowner, an architect can advocate for the homeowner. Being able to decode what a contractor is actually saying allows an architect to avoid misunderstandings between the homeowner and contractor, to level the playing field and often prevent unnecessary extras.
AplosGroup usually starts by doing an initial consultation with a client. Of all the skills required to become a successful architect – analytical and problem-solving ability, a love of math and science, a passion for art and design – communication skills are essential to keeping the design process moving efficiently.
Our secret to keeping a project on track is to communicate at every stage and to act as an advocate for our clients when needed. We can break a project down into 5 stages.
- 5% Predesign
- 15% Schematic Design
- 25% Design Development
- 35% Construction Documents
- 10% Bidding Negotiations
This is an example of how a project begins
If you’d like to learn more about how we work with clients and collaborate with the build team, please contact our office today at 415-450-9504 x700 (Marin) or 707-241-4944 (Sonoma).