Architects bring value to your project

Whatever your project - whether you are building a new home, institution, commercial or industrial development or planning some renovations or an addition - your architect will bring value to your project by taking care of your interests and creating a quality building.

Hiring an architect means peace of mind for you. The route to a completed building project is complex and challenging. There are many decisions to be made along the way which will have a major impact on how your project functions and looks. Your architect can see you through the process, not only easing the way by helping you avoid wrong turns, but leading you to creative and innovative solutions.

The result you want is a successful project; one that fulfills your dreams, meets practical and functional requirements and contributes to the quality of our culture and environment. Such projects are the result of a positive and constructive working relationship between informed clients and skilled architects.

Some of the services architects can provide

Architects today are involved in widely diverse areas of business. There are specialists and generalists in private practice. As well, architects are employed by a variety of corporations, institutions and small businesses applying their skills in research, innovation, design and creative problem solving.

So-called 'traditional practice', focusing on the design and construction of buildings, is still a popular career choice for many architects. Planning a new building, renovating or restoring an old one, solving a particular functional or space planning problem, are all within the scope of an architect's expertise.

A typical range of 'traditional services' for a project can include:

• helping the client understand and articulate needs and aspirations
• developing the formal set of requirements for the project – the program
• helping the client establish a realistic and achievable budget and schedule for the project
• providing the client with a list of required site information such as survey and soils information – and assisting the client in obtaining that information when requested
• obtaining and coordinating structural, mechanical and electrical engineering services
• preparing a comprehensive analysis of the requirements of authorities having jurisdiction, including zoning, site plan control, Ontario Building and Fire Codes
• preparing concept or schematic design, often several alternatives
• reviewing those concepts with the client, and assisting the client in deciding on the most appropriate design
• reconfirming the schedule and the budget
• developing the selected design in more detail and reviewing with the client, including any changes to the schedule or budget
• preparing the detailed construction documents – plans and specifications – which will be used to apply for building permit, determine the construction cost, and build the project
• help the client decide the most appropriate method of building – stipulated sum construction contract, construction management, design/build or other method
• assist the client in obtaining bids, and executing the appropriate construction contract(s)
• administering the contract, and certifying payments to the constructor(s) when they are due
• carrying out general review during construction – reviewing random samples of the construction as it proceeds to assure that the project is being built in general conformity with the plans and specifications
• identifying deficiencies in the work and facilitating their correction
• helping the client 'take over' the completed project, and showing the client how to use the building and its equipment
• assisting the client in getting warranty repairs if problems arise

Of course, architects can do a lot more for their clients should the need arise. Architects:

• can assist the client in finding the right site for the project or in comparing a number of sites
• can prepare a feasibility analysis or 'highest and best use study' of a property the client already owns or is considering purchasing
• are skilled at obtaining the many approvals required for construction – rezoning, minor variance, site plan agreement or approvals from specific committees, agencies or Ministries.
• can help their client coordinate a move from one location to another, including an inventory of furniture and equipment
• by carrying out a detailed review of client operations, will assist a client in making more efficient use of space already owned, and help determine if renovation, additions or relocation may be necessary
• might assess a building before a client invests – identifying necessary upgrades and their costs
• provide interior design services
• will facilitate the engaging of the wide range of specialist consultants often necessary for today's construction projects
• might assist a client in obtaining financing
• may provide complete project management services – from helping determine if there is need for construction, through the entire process of erecting then using the building, and may even help the client manage the facility through its lifetime of use
• ….. the list of services provided by architects, and highly-valued by their clients, is practically endless

Why hire an architect?

Few people realize how complicated it is to build - until they find themselves in the midst of building codes, zoning bylaws, contractors' bids, materials selections, etc. The architect is the one professional who has the years of education, training and background to guide you through the design and construction process. The architect will help define exactly what you want to build, and ensure that you get the most from your construction dollar.

When you embark on a construction program, you are making a commitment to a major investment. Your architect can transform your ideas and functional needs into a program, conceptual design, working drawings and technical specifications from which the facility will be constructed under your architect's administration. The question should not be 'why hire an architect?' but 'which architect do I hire?'

How do I choose an architect?

If you know someone who has recently used an architect to renovate or to build a new building, ask them who they used and whether they would recommend the architect to you.

Look around your neighbourhood. If you see a building project that looks particularly successful, ask the owner or contractor for the name of the architect involved.

Use the Directory of Architectural and Related Services in this website to select an architectural firm based on the type of building or project you have in mind.

Once you have some names, check out their websites, and contact the architectural firm to ask about their experience with projects similar to yours. Arrange a meeting, ask to see some relevant work samples, and get an idea of how the firm would approach your project. a sense of personal rapport with your architect is essential for ultimate success.

What will the architect need to begin working?

You will need to provide your architect with a survey or 'plot plan' of the property with legal description and unless the site is flat, a topographical survey (contour map) of the site along with a description of any unusual site or climatic conditions. Plans of the existing building will also be needed. A clearly defined budget is also very important.

How long does it take to design a project?

Design time is affected by the size and complexity of the project. It is not unusual for the design process to take two to three months and preparation of the construction documents is equally time-consuming.

During this period critical decisions are made which will affect the overall success of your project. Don't expect everything to happen overnight!

Why do I need architectural 'field review'? Won't the contractor and building inspector look after my interests for me?

While the contractor and building inspector have important jobs to do, their priorities are different and they are not employed to look after your best interests the way an architect is.

When the unexpected arises, as most often happens during renovations, the architect has the experience and familiarity with the design to foresee implications and make decisions or design revisions competently and with the least delay.

What are the dangers of trying to renovate or restore a house without an architect?

In many cases, the house will already be non-conforming, and you may require committee of Adjustment approval. You may find your proposed changes don't comply with local zoning or building codes. Even owners who meet the code sometimes find they've spent a lot of money renovation their period house only to find that what they've done now detracts from its resale value.

Building is a complicated process and few people have the knowledge to be able to handle it alone, you need some specialized expertise. Also, it's all too easy to think only about immediate changes which need doing. This can be expensive. Be willing to think beyond this year to your long-term 'wish list' for the house. Even if you're only able to do the first phase this year, a phased masterplan designed to fit your budget will save you money in the long run.

Why hire an architect?

An Architect is trained to design buildings that are safe, functional, beautiful, and that can be built within your budget.

An Architect is licensed by the state to practice architecture after having passed rigorous state licensing examinations.

An Architect mulls many design parameters and works with you to find the best solution for your project.

An Architect considers governmental building regulations such as zoning and building codes, energy regulations equal access laws and many others thus accelerating the building permit process.

An Architect participates in continuing education courses to be up to date regarding new and Ecologically safe building materials, building codes and safety.

An Architect takes pride in creating a well thought out environment.

<< Return to Articles     Back to Top