Expert: Paul S. Brown, AIA - 11/6/2008

Question
Paul, hello!

In the interest of being specific...I'll probably provide too much information...so hopefully you can wade through it!

My husband and I just bought a lot, in Alaska, on a hill/mountainside.  We are hoping to build a home that is in the 3000-3500sqf range that will be a V-shaped, prow fronted A frame with wings, with 3 car garage.  My husband is hoping to be the contractor for the project to help us save money.  He is pretty sure he can design the house himself...but (not to doubt his capabilities) I would like at least some professional help!  I was wondering if you could give me some idea of my options.  EX: Architect, pre-made home-plans, computer programs for do-it-yourselfers?  If you have any idea on the cost of each option...and if you happen to have any recommendations (I understand you probably don't know architects up here...but perhaps recommendations on the other options??)


Thanks so much!

Becky

Answer
Hi Becky:
Thanks for the great question.  Congrat's on the beautiful sounding lot!
I spent a summer and fall working in the fishing industry on Kodiak Island in 1980 - I loved Alaska and the people I met, and have always wanted to go back.  And, if you and your husband are anything like most of the Alaskan people I met while I was there, then I have no doubt that you can do this project yourselves.

However, to help you sleep well at night Becky, my advice to you would be to hire a structural engineer to review your husband's plans before he starts building.  Particularly the foundation plan, since you are on a sloped site.  And of course, comply with any local regulations and ordinances concerning building, including getting a permit if/needed, and going through the permit review process.  If a permit is required, you may find that the local building official is a helpful resource and could also increase your confidence level in knowing that you are proceeding the right way.

Pre-drawn plans can be helpful as a reference, but even with the thousands of plans available in market, it sounds like you probably won't find anything that is exactly similar to what you want.

I think the structural engineer would be the best option for your project; a plan review should not be more than 5 hours of time, or so.

Good luck; and have fun!
PB