Ahh, the impeding query on everyone’s mind from the moment we begin to discuss a new project. In this blog we will review the process of planning your architecture and what you can expect.
The answer to how long and how much is not all that conspicuous. As you may have already concluded, it simply all depends.
Maybe not the answer you were expecting, perhaps precisely what you were expecting. Let’s break down how we get to a budget and schedule.
For new construction, the architectural fee typically falls between 10% to 15% of construction costs; renovations, additions, or remodels typically fall between 15% to 20% of the construction cost (or hard cost in development terms). These fees cover the phases from Design (Schematic design) through Direction (Construction observation). In addition, derivation (Inception), Diligence (Pre-design), including existing conditions surveys, Decoration (Interior Design), including the purchasing of Fixtures, furniture, and equipment, and reimbursable expenses (Large format printing, samples, travel, etc…) are all services/products charged separately.
Invoices are typically issued monthly at a current hourly rate of $300, for no more than 20 billable hours per week, once project parameters are defined and an estimated schedule is acknowledged. (Note: some exceptions may apply for additional time up to 30 billable hours per week in the event of an emergency) A deposit for pre-design services, refundable up to start day, is required to book, hold, and start the agreed upon estimated planning schedule.
Well, Will, why hire an architect when anyone can design a home?
Good question, and the answer is simple, if you think you don’t need an architect, you probably don’t, and you’re better off without one or purchasing a stock set of plans. (Note: the latest edition of building codes is very thorough and need to be followed as part of your design, unless local jurisdiction law supersedes.)
Will, we have a piece of land and are looking to develop a long-term plan. Can you design in phases?
Yes, not having an immediate need to move into a home or space will lead to better design quality. For example, we can take the time to learn the property through each season. Although construction may take in phases, our planning should be inclusive of all final assembled buildings to allow a more uniform and connected plan. As a starting place, we typically consult wind rose studies, solar positioning, water movement, prominent tree locations, other attractive landscapes and wildlife we wish to protect, boring soil samples, and more. We seek to plan your experience from the property line to the moment you lay your head down to rest.
Will, I need drawings for new commercial office space, and we want it to dazzle our visitors, how much & how long?
You ask I’ll deliver. Give me square footage and an estimated budget for construction. I’ll enter it into my algorithm and let you know how much my fee is, how much time I estimate it will take to dazzle, and where your cost per area (square feet) falls in the spectrum of finish quality.
Will, what are the different finish qualities?
I’m glad you asked; the industry divides quality into four different quality ranges based on design parameters. Economy, Average, Custom, and Luxury. Let me provide a few examples from Gordians 2020 41st annual edition of square foot costs with RS means data:
Economy: Economy quality designs come from a stock set of plans (Note: Ardolino Design & development does not offer stock plans at this time, nor do we work with clients to make adjustments to such programs). The materials and quality are sufficient to satisfy building codes. Low construction cost is more critical than distinctive features. The overall shape and structure are seldom other than square or rectangular. [Many warehouses, industrial, or commercial tenant build-outs require a few bathrooms, and some walls fall into this category. You can expect these to take the least amount of everyone’s time.]
Average: A simple design, materials, and quality are average but often exceed minimum building codes. There are frequently special features that give some distinctive characteristics. [These projects require an average time and cost per square foot of the proposed project, whether a residence or commercial space. Often find that frugalness in budgets is a high priority here.]
Custom: Custom Class is usually built from plans & specifications with enough features to give the building a distinct design. Materials and quality are generally above average, with evident attention to construction details. Construction exceeds typical building code requirements. [These plans are where an owner will get a balance between budget and a sophisticated design solution, without accouterments, additional time is needed to coordinate custom features.]
Luxury: A luxury class requires an architect’s complete drawings and specifications. It is unique in both design and quality. There are abundant special features, and construction usually exceeds all building codes. Immediate attention to the owner’s comfort and pleasure. (Note: this is where Ardolino Design and Development thrives) [It is also essential to consider that this kind of architecture is often for affluent owners who make decisions with their feelings as a priority, in other words, the vital question behind most decisions is how does it make us feel? Luxury quality often leads smoothly into an interior design phase that ties the architecture and the interiors into a cohesive experience; moreover, it requires the most time and, depending on the size, can potentially take years of our time together.]
Design is an expedition and a discovery of the best fit solution. But, like any adventure, a lot will happen between the Derivation and Delivery of a project. Markets crash, priorities change, and new products are released. More research, more options, and more iterations to get to a solution that makes everyone happy takes more work; therefore, more resources.
Architecture, construction, and development create an equal lateral triangle. Quality, schedule, and budget are the key factors that define how much & how long a project will take. Pick two and give me a call to discuss which two you plan to make your priority.