professional help

13 years ago

We want to add a 20x20 family room, detached 1.5 car (second) garage, swimming pool, and flat lawn area to the back of our home.

What type of professional can draw up this type of Ã¢ÂÂmaster planÃ¢ÂÂ for us? We have less than ÃÂ½ acre lot so itÃ¢ÂÂs imperative that we have a cohesive plan. We want someone who has the BIG PICTURE in mind but will still focus on details (i.e. grading, sun exposure, functionality).

For example, the garage will require a floor plan because it will be multi-purpose (storage, workshop, and pool house) and need a covered patio on the side to serve as our outdoor living space (grill, patio table, etc.).

The pool can't just big stuck in the ground either. We want it to be integrated with the way we live (close to our home) and not just a random thought.

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Comments (3)

User
13 years ago
You need the services of a full service architectural firm who either has an in house landscape architect or one that they consult with frequently.
Suzi AKA DesertDance So CA Zone 9b
13 years ago
When choosing an architect, it's important to see examples of other work they have done. They tend to have a "style," like an artist has, so make sure their vision fits yours.

Suzi
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virgilcarter
13 years ago
Suzi, architects are a lot like physicians and attornies, in that some are "specialists" and some are "generalists". The best tip may be to find architects who like and do the type/scale of work that the owner has in mind.

Residential remodel work is quite different than, say, hospitals or correctional facilities. Or for that matter, the custom design of new single family homes. Remodeling architecture takes a lot more attention and time for analyzing, measuring and taking into account existing conditions. Compared to design of new homes, remodeling is much more labor intensive for both architects and builders.

A good place to start is by contacting the closest office of The American Institute of Architects for referrals.

Good luck with your project.