I might direct you to a Design-Build Renovation company. They have Design and Architecture on staff along side do construction professionals. Start with a local NARI or HBA chapter (via the web) and they should list them. We absolutely love the creations we are able to create in house. BTW, we also work with outside firms, but typically the SAme ones, when we are overloaded. The teamwork creates great results. Good luck, Irena.

Most municipalities will require that a drawing be submitted for review, which more often than not, must be prepared by a licensed architect, especially in the case of an addition. Whether this architect in part of a design-build firm, or solely an architectural firm, architects are valuable in properly designing spaces that work within your needs and lifestyle. Some individuals like the approach of hiring only an architect initially so that they then may competitively bid the project with several builders. As a professional who has been in the building industry for over 20 years, I can honestly tell you that your best route is to work with an architectural firm and builder (or design-build firm), together from the start. Check with the local building department to see what architects and builders (or design-build firms) have performed work in your area, as well as checking with the BBB, and NARI or HBA. Ask for references and call the references, as well as ask to see several projects that they have completed in your area. If they are not a design-build firm, has the architect and builder worked together in the past. Good luck with your project!