Architect question ....

10 years ago

Hello again :)

I have a question regarding what can be expected after an initial (free) consultation with an architect? Specifically can one expect to receive any type of drawing or sketch of some type of what was discussed along with the quote?

Thanks!

Featured Answer

Architectrunnerguy

10 years ago

I'd forget the back and forth and shoot for setting up a meeting with this guy and have a 4 or 5 hour brainstorming session with him on exploring ideas with all the decision makers there. I do them all the time face to face and call them charrettes. Posted one here....not my first post here but the second, photo heavy one further down. One of the photos there is actually of a charrette http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/3178541/question-for-architectrunnerguy-or-others?n=24 Embedded link in there also so go there if you wish.

Also in talking with him make sure he's thinking of the house and lot as one. Especially with a pool. I've preached this so many time before I just made an "ideabook" of my own projects illustrating what I'm talking about so go there.

But the best of luck with your project. Exciting times!!

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Comments (8)

User
10 years ago
We didn't get sketches until we had signed a contract and the meter was running.
Naf_Naf
10 years ago
I do not think so - unless that is what you both agreed at the "free" meeting.
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Victoria
Original Author
10 years ago
thank you :)
PRO
Mark Bischak, Architect
10 years ago
After you agree to retain an architect, the architect normally determines the owner's goals, needs, function of the proposed project, budget, analyzes the site, and determines if there are any code or zoning issues; then the architect starts developing design solutions. These things take time.
Victoria
Original Author
10 years ago
We took a plan of his and showed him changes we (thought) we wanted. He emailed me a week later with a quote for the plans. I guess I kind of thought he would show us some type of drawing as well.

After posting here though we realize it would be best to take the survey to him and start over and see what he can come up with to best fit on the lot as we want a pool as well.

I was just curious what the normal procedure was. Thanks :)
Oaktown
10 years ago
Send him the survey but also ask him to visit the site before your meeting/charrette :-)
Victoria thanked Oaktown
C Masty
10 years ago
My architect said his process goes something like this. I really enjoy working with him so far. He has a very good reputation. We are so far on step 4.

1. Initial Meeting, get to know you. He decides sort of arbitrarily what hes going to charge depending on how much of a PITA he supposes you'll be, and the sqft of your home. (he actually told me this)

2. He quotes a price and you either accept or not.

3. If you accept, you give him 10% to start the work.

4. He then visits your site and separately interviews you.

5. He then makes HAND DRAWN pictures of what he thinks you want, based on the site and your needs and wishes. He wont do squat without you committing to a piece of land.

6. He presents the drawings to you. You comment.

7. He changes the drawings based on your comments.

8. You approve or revise again. (This is where his judgement comes in on PITA level -- You never can tell! ) REvise until you approve.

9. He sends them to CAD.

10. Review CAD and revise. Review electrical and furnishings plan.

11. You pay him the balance. (90%)

12. He sends the full plans to you and the builder and follows up periodically at your site or upon questions /demand.
Victoria thanked C Masty