Designing your dream home can truly be one of the greatest and fun experiences in your life. If you want a truly unique home that reflects your vision and takes maximum advantage of your property, the retaining of an Architect can help you make this dream a reality. In this article I want to discuss why and how to retain an Architect and the information you need to prepare in advance of bringing one aboard.
As a PrincipalArchitect at EGLIN+BRESLER Architects for over thirty years I have had the privilege to design many custom homes and have also reviewed custom homes plans as a Subdivision Approving Architect. During that time I have seen many unique and exciting homes, but I have also seen too many poorly designed homes on very expensive lots that are lacking aesthetically and ignoring the opportunities of the property on which they are built. A well designed home will bring you years of fulfillment and a higher resale value.
Hiring an Architect that understands and shares your vision, even before you purchase land, will allow you to make informed decisions about the property and will help guide you with the many choices you will make during the Design Process.
When selecting an Architect you should become familiar with their previous work, your ability to work together and their interest in doing your project. It is of utmost importance that you be heard as this is your home but is also important to be open to adopt new ideas and concepts for your home.
In starting the Design Process you will need to prepare a simple one page outline of your ‘program’ for your dream home; Is it on one level or two stories, what type and how large are the spaces you need and how will they interact with each other. Your program should also include the items and details you want to be designed in your home. For example, do you want one closet or two closets in the master suite, how many cars are in the garage and is there a workshop in there, do you want an island in the kitchen, etc. It is also very helpful to make a scrapbook containing pictures of homes styles, interiors, patios and other ideas that you want to see incorporated in the design of your new home. An Architect can help organize and prioritize this information. Through diagrams and sketches an Architect can show how you can best utilize the property, maximize views and be knowledgable of the constraints/opportunities such as floodplain and hillside regulations as well as provide floor plan and massing options for the home.
As you become more familiar with your land, both you and the Architect will gain insights regarding views, home placement and how your ‘program’ can be accommodated. All of this work ultimately leads to a cohesive package of plans and specifications that can be permitted and built.
A prepared client comes armed with their program information,a good survey and a realistic budget that will make it quicker and easier to attain a more responsive and successful design. While you may not achieve every wish in your program, you will understand the trade offs and usually end up with a home surpassing your expectations. If your goal is to have a truly unique custom home that reflects your own needs and values you need to play an active role in the Design Process with your Architect by understanding the drawings you are looking at, being focused and having open, frank communication. There are literally hundreds of thousands choices to make when designing your home but your initial choices made early in the design process will guide you along the path to living in your dream home.
Guest Post by Evan Eglin
Principal Architect at Eglin+Bresler Architects, P.C.
520-885-4455
