FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Fees can be set up a variety of different ways. Fixed, Lump Sum Fee, A percentage of construction cost, hourly - depending on the project type, timeline, goals, etc. In most cases, the customer will usually get the most value with a fixed fee, or percentage of construction fee. This also allows you to know the cost of your architect up-front, rather than being blind-sided with hourly fees. Each project is different, each client is different and fees can be set up in a variety of ways.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Determining your needs, and how you actually live or work within a space, on a day to day basis is more important than style. Your house / building needs to function for you, your family, your employees, your customers determining these needs will drive the design. Next I look at the constraints and opportunities of the site, where can we build, what can we build and how to best maximize environmental conditions (daylighting, natural ventilation, views, etc) Once the design is finalized I create a highly detailed set of construction documents. This is a step that I do not, will not skimp on. The documents (drawings and specifications) represent the contract between you and your builder, if something is not documented and detailed, it is not owned under the contract. A highly detailed set of drawings will also reduce the amount of questions on the job site and will allow the contractors to provide you with more accurate pricing, which reduces change orders and additional, unexpected costs. During construction, I perform construction administration services (CA) - I act as your representative on the jobsite. During CA I observe the progress of the work to assure that it is being built in accordance with the contract. I also answer any contractor questions, assist in working through any changes and assist you in the many decisions that will need to be made.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
- Licensed Architect in MA and CT - NCARB Certified (ability to be licensed in all states) - 20 Years Experience - Master of Architecture Degree - Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering Technology