Where's the elevations? And are you sure it's an architect and not a draftsman

here's what I don't understand. You wouldn't let the builder play middleman between you and an interior decorator, why is the builder in the middle of you and an architect? <-- and you are likely not getting a true architect...

You are getting variations on a VERY common theme in tract building. You are also getting it for free.

Getting what you want is going to cost you more and finding and hiring your own design professional, establishing that 1:1 relationship, and developing the story for your house, the program, should lead the way.

It's great that you have a builder friend, and if he's used to building in neighborhoods / tract houses, he just works this way. Perhaps ask him if he's done something TOTALLY custom and what local architect he could recommend? ;-) as to not disrespect what he's done so far?

Frankly, if I was building a custom home (and I am) I would be very leery of using a tract home builder to build my house. I would only want someone who specializes in custom homes.

And as for the rest, I'm with jannicone. If you're working with a true architect, he or she will first walk the land with you, then sit down with you to figure out what you want and need and at the same time probably draw some very rough sketches. What you're having done is what a draftsman does with a builder.

And sorry but your plan looks like what I'd expect from a draftsman.

these kinda deals are tricky even with everyone qualified and skilled.
rather wait a few years, plan, budget, etc, and then proceeded

this is an architect you've not met, I'm guessing, or met briefly?

Someone with the title 'chef' will not be able to cook you a great meal unless
he really was a good chef
he knew what you liked/wanted/needed and didn't
he made a meal where the ingredients complimented each other, and did not disregard them
also, he'd make you a better meal if he was being paid to

So if this went down as you say.... you drew up a plan yourself and sent it in to an architect you've never met with, who's never seen your property...

Then, I don't understand why you thought he'd understand your vision... To 'get' your vision, he/she needs to meet with you. Get to know you and how you live. Talk about things you like and don't like about your house and other houses you've seen. And see your property.

Notice I didn't say anything about drawing up a plan or anything to give to the architect.

That's how they will get your vision. I know it seems odd, but once you go through it, it makes great sense. Good luck with your project.

"him and his team are not very experienced with custom homes"

First red flag

"All they do is tract home"

Second red flag

Get the "architect"'s license number, and I'm not talking about his car's.

My Comments

You are missing HVAC Chases, your upper floor needs to be supported. You will need a structural column(s)

I had an architectural teacher in high school that had a term for a plan like this; I would share it with you but there are ladies present. Is this a friend or someone you know?

There are times to handle things with kit gloves and there are times to be straightforward; this is a time to be straightforward, get a real architect.