Questions You May Have (or getting to the nitty-gritty)
Does the architect have a specific design style?
What would the architect expect the fee to be for my project?
When will fee payments be expected?
How disruptive will construction be?
How long does the architect expect it to take to complete my project?
What will the architect show me along the way to explain the project? Will I see models, drawings, or sketches?
If the scope of the project changes later in the project, will there be additional fees?
What services does the architect provide during construction?
Will I be charged for reimbursibles?
Will I have to hire anyone else?
- A good architect does not have one specific “style” and can work adeptly with any style.
What would the architect expect the fee to be for my project?
- Fees are established based on the size and scope of a project. If it is a new house, the fee will be based on the square footage and complexity of the project. If it is an addition or renovation (remodel), the fee will be based on the scope of work (not necessarily size). The fee can only be determined by meeting with the architect to discuss your project.
When will fee payments be expected?
- Fee payments are based on milestones- the milestones typically being based on each of the 5 design phases.
How disruptive will construction be?
- A renovation/addition project can be quite disruptive, but a good contractor can minimize this in some cases. In other cases, it is recommended that you not be living in your house while construction is in progress.
How long does the architect expect it to take to complete my project?
- The duration of a project varies greatly, based on the size and complexity of a project. An average addition might take from 3-9 months total and a new house might take from 16-24 months total. This can be better determined when you meet with an architect about your specific project.
What will the architect show me along the way to explain the project? Will I see models, drawings, or sketches?
- In the schematic design phase, you will mostly see sketches. In the design development phase you will most likely see a model, especially if this is new construction (not renovation). In the Construction Documents phase you will see AutoCad drawings, and maybe renderings or samples boards for finishes, as needed.
If the scope of the project changes later in the project, will there be additional fees?
- If there is significant change when the Construction Documents are well under way, there will be additional fees associated with it most likely. This would be a delay in progress and therefore has cost associated with it. Minor changes do not add fees.
What services does the architect provide during construction?
- We will visit the site during construction (typically 3 times) to observe and review to be sure the progress is consistent with the drawings and specifications.
Will I be charged for reimbursibles?
- Yes; this may include reproduction of drawings (large format) and miscellaneous items specifically related to your project.
Will I have to hire anyone else?
- Most likely other consultants including a civil engineer, a structural engineer, and a mechanical/plumbing/electrical engineer will be needed. The architect will coordinate the hiring of any consultants, but their fees must be paid directly by you, the client.
If this has been helpful, please call us at 617.605.4172, or email at gpbutler@qwestoffice.net.
