Do i need an architect or a designer?

11 years ago

I have a 3 bed 2 bath home with a completely unfinished basement. Using both the main floor and the basement, I would like to increase the size of the bedrooms, bathrooms, closets and create a front entry coat closet. If there is enough space I would also like to add a bathroom and bedroom. Should i consider an architect or designer to help me lay out a new floor plan for the main floor and basement? We don't need any help with contractors or construction work.

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Comments (5)

User
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
You need some help planting the money tree seeds. A landscaper maybe?

You could buy a whole new house and have money left over for what it would cost to tear down all of the interior walls to reconfigure the space. That only involves EVERYTHING in the house, with none of the benefits of new construction.

Moving or doing a teardown and rebuild will be cheaper. And faster.
worthy
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
That kind of reno is common in many downtown areas where I live where: 1) the facades are historic and contribute to resale value; 2) zoning would prohibit a rebuild to the same density and setbacks; 3) the homes are attached on one or both sides.

I was considering the process you're asking about for our personal suburban estate home. But after pricing out the changes the designer (and I) thought necessary I concluded: bring in the backhoe.

I'm in a jurisdiction where the alternative of licensed architectural technologists are available, so I've been able to avoid architects for decades. But structural engineers are a must.
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rockybird
11 years ago
I think you might need both, but I would think an architect for sure.
PRO
Charles Ross Homes
11 years ago
I suggest you think about your needs in terms of the competencies required for the design task rather than the job title(s). 1.) You need someone to help translate your lifestyle needs into a liveable floor plan, 2.) you'll need someone with enough structural background to ensure the plan can be implemented without it becoming a major civil engineering project, and 3.) you'll need someone who can help assess the cost early in the design phase to ensure it can be realized within your budget.

I've worked with both architects and designers who brought high level competencies 1.) and 2.) to projects as well as some who brought neither. With regard to assessing cost, you'll be well served to pay a remodeler to develop a line-item estimate of materials and trade labor for any portions of the construction you will not be doing yourself.

Best wishes for a successful project.
Lavender Lass
11 years ago
I'd post your plan and ask for suggestions on the kitchen forum, here and Building a Home forum. Ask if better to remodel or buy new? Then use the input (free input) you get here...to see if you still need a designer or just want to take info to an architect.

Hope this helps :)