 | Art Bryan
is president and owner of Southwestern Remodeling Contractors, Inc. Art started Southwestern Remodeling Contractors in 1970. Southwestern is a fully-licensed residential and commercial licensed general contractor in Wichita and the surrounding counties. Art has been a member of the Wichita Area Home Builders Association and the National Remodel Council since 1974. In mid-2000 Southwestern received the distinction of being named one of the "Top 25 Most Diversified Remodeling Companies in the United States.” Southwestern is listed as the 84th Top Remodeler in the country by Qualified Remodeling Magazine. Art can be contacted at his office at (316) 263-1239, fax at (316) 263-6230, or you can e-mail him at ARTSWR@aol. Com |
Home Improvement
2004-03-01 14:01:00
Do we need an architect?
Art Bryan
Question: We don't know where to start for our desired room addition. Should we hire an architect to design our new space?
ANSWER: Although hiring an architect is an option that you may consider, it probably is not your best option for most room additions. Rather, you might want to consider hiring a Design/Build remodeler who has the experience and capabilities to design and build your project within your stipulated budget, for two main reasons.First, by working directly with a remodeling contractor to design and build your project, you will control your budgeted costs. The contractor knows the costs of construction and will design the plans and specifications within predetermined budgets. This eliminates additional design fees which frequently occur when an outside architect or designer draws a project without knowing the costs to ensure the project can be built within budget. This is one of the most common problems and frustrations many homeowners experience when not having their plans drawn by someone other than the remodeler who builds it.Second, the by-product of the reasons explained is that the design costs will usually be less costly than hiring a third party architect. Also, it should be a more enjoyable experience for you in working with a knowledgeable and experienced contractor who is totally responsible for the design and construction of your remodeling project. You'll be working together from inception to completion as a team with one major goal in mind - designing and building your dream project within your designated budget.
