Start by asking your architect these questions, like "why did you include window A, which was so different than the window B that I liked?"

People on the internet aren't going to be able to answer "why she changed the windows/how they chose them for me." Your architect will, though.

I think that in the bigger scheme of things, you need to be more proactive at this point, asking questions like amodernmountainhome recommends, but in such a way as to make it clear that as the paying customer, you and architect need to be able to agree on something and then move forward without being charged for the relevant time again. I am asking you: how are you willing to be treated?

If the situation is exactly as you've described it, I'm guessing that your conversation with the architect didn't get clearly communicated to the person drafting. I was in this exact same situation a year ago, and after a few examples of this (with us emailing numbered notes of requested changes from our meetings--easily checked) with no real improvement, we severed the relationship...and started over with an architect who works on the 3D model with us over Zoom. He is adept with the software, and that is what we needed. Now, when we want a bathroom enlarged and moved this way and that, we can discuss it while SEEING the walls and fixtures move. And if he recommends doing something differently, we can discuss it in the moment.

We were out a significant amount of money (sunk cost), but are so glad we found someone else. We know now that it is important to see changes in 3D in a meeting in real time. To me, that is absolutely necessary.

Now in your case, perhaps this relationship is salvageable, but only if the architect takes responsibility for the error and fixes the charges. Your $200K project may be quite small to some architects. I can't say because I don't know where you are or what the market is like. You can ask the architect if she feels you are being reasonable. The answer will tell you what you need to know.

The other aspect to this is that the architect was recommended by the builder. Is it possible the builder is giving input as well? Do they work hand in hand where the architect (if this person even IS an actual architect--is it just some draftsman?) recommends only the standard windows she knows are available to said builder?

I’m curious why you think casement windows won’t work in a high wind environment?

Hi Doc- We have casement windows on our house, and are in a 130-150mph windzone. We had one rip totally off due to the wind, so now, every time the wind kicks up, I hear them getting pushed around and have to run around closing the ones on the N & E sides of the house.

As I'm re-reading your question, the relationship between architect and builder seems more important, and that clarification may tell the whole story. And what do you mean, your "allotted time"? We just pay our architect by the hour...

Secondly, what are this person's architectural qualifications? Is this an actual architect?

Thanks Mrs. S- They are an actual architect, CAASH. We agreed on a certain amount for the plans. Then sketches went back & forth amiably for a while. It seems that after I asked one too many questions about windows & stairs, I was told, "we're going to have to start charging you". As far as the builder relationship, I bet he would put in whatever I choose, but as permits are hard to get around here, I think it's better to have it right the first time- cheaper to re-draw something than to re-frame it?

What is "CAASH"?

Thanks JuneKnow- 200 is total project, not just design fees.

$200k in fees for residential construction design? Yikes!

It's a $200K addition of a 2-story garage. She hasn't mentioned the architect fees.

I know people who have spent $200K in architectural fees. It's not unheard of in certain areas, fyi.

Mrs S........IMO.....that's someone with more money than common sense building a personal res. !!!!!!!

If you want to salvage this ongoing relationship and get your house drawn how you want it built the straight solution is to schedule a meeting with the individual who has been assigned your project. One to one communication. If this doesn't work move on. . . . In an area with weather and wind as you've mentioned I would consider fixed glass because fresh air could be handled with the HRV or ERV system I'd put in anyway.. The cost savings on windows would be substantial. You'd still need egress windows where required. Tilt turn could work for those.

He's back........................

Just a few things to consider besides already mentioned communication issues. Did you hand them a plan and expect them to just draw it up as it was drawn, or did you discuss some other ideas as well? Is it possible they had to make changes to make sure you are keeping to your budget?

Instead of demanding they put it back as you've drawn I would ask what the issue is with what you had drawn vs. what you had discussed. Ie we discussed X and I'm wondering why I'm not seeing it here. It looks like I got Y and what is the reason for this?

How come the windows are like this when in my experience this is what has happened using those in the past. Are there other options?

I think you won't get anywhere demanding you want it a certain way, but by asking and understanding why something was done and then raising valid issues with it you might work together and solve it to your satisfaction and budget.

ETA: The budget does sound low, but we don't know what size the house is or building costs in your area so it may well be a decent amount. If it is not then I would understand window changes having to happen.

Thanks, JuneKnow- It is a pretty raw project, as our budget is limited, and we're not trying to impress anyone. A large garage & bike shop in the lower, and outdoor family gear storage/yoga/rec room on top. Think "glamping", not "mirrored wet bar". No water, not climate controlled year-round. We can finish/furnish later, just need the space first... I'm tired of pulling snowboards & camping gear out of crawl spaces every time we want to go anywhere.

Realistically it comes down to communication and expectations. Remember he works for you at the end of the day. You need to stand up for yourself and tell him what you want. You can leave the detailing to him but the products should be up to you and an open discussion on the exact locations.

Dan/Iyfia- I thought I was starting a conversation with them, and the assumptions they had made, and the materials sourced (would it kill the industry to give a girl a price list so I can get a feel for the options?), then it turned into "any more changes and we'll have to charge you more". I'll play with elevations (can I fit anything under those windows they chose?) and then get back to them and try again.

"would it kill the industry to give a girl a price list so I can get a feel for the options?"

There is no price list as there are way to many variables and everyone's pricing can be and most often is different. Unfortunately this is where your due diligence comes in on the front end.