FAQ
What is the difference between and Architect, Designer and Drafter?
An Architect usually holds a stamp that allows them to provide structural details on their plans. In order for an Architect to obtain a stamp, they have to complete graduate school and/or pass a test. They take continuing education classes to maintain their certifications and have an education in Architecture. Often Architects oversee construction.
A Designer & Drafter can have varied educational experiences and degrees. Drafters are usually certified in using AutoCAD and Designers often have 4 year degrees with certifications and/or have design and/or other related experiences. They can NOT stamp plans for structural engineering. Engineering is outsourced.
What if my county or community requires and architects' stamp?
We have a registered architect on staff, whom holds stamps in several states that we do work. We can stamp plans that we design for an additional fee. This fee, is due to the architects time and expertise that will be required to work on and review your plan. In order to keep costs down for our clients, this is a service that we only offer upon request.
How much will this cost?
We start off all estimates with a basic square footage price of $2.00 a S.F. (Square Foot).
There are additional factors that affect price:
* Level of Detail Required- (Custom Cabinet Design, Built-in’s
* Additional Structures or Features
- Detached Buildings (Garages, Studio, Workshop, Efficiency Apartment
- Conditioned space vs. unconditioned space
- Covered Porches, Screened in Porches, Decks
How much does it cost to have plans engineered?
We can recommend trusted engineering companies that we have worked with over the years that start around $2.00 S.F.
So for around $4.00 S.F your home can be designed, drafted and engineered.
How long does the process take?
This depends upon the scope of the job and our current work schedule.
However, a typical 2500 S.F home takes from 2-3 months to complete the process.
How do I get on your schedule?
After discussing the scope of your project and your budget. To get on our work schedule, clients need to sign a contract/proposal and pay a 25% deposit. Talk is talk, a deposit and a signed contract make things happen.
Are you insured?
Yes, we are fully bonded and insured.
This is a great question to ask other professionals as you move forward with your search for a designer/drafter, architect and/or builder/subcontractors.
What if I need to make changes to the plans? Will I be charged?
Whether you decide that something needs to be changed to suit your needs or trying to comply with community guidelines/restrictions, we will do everything in our power to make sure that you are happy with your design. We are here for you along the way and are available to coordinate with others involved in the process to make things easier for you. Rest assured that we will make as many changes as necessary to make our clients happy.
Only design changes after plan in finalized will be subject to an hourly rate.