AboutPaul S. Brown, AIA Expertise How to work with an Architect. What to expect for design fees. What services are normally
included; what are not included? How do I find an Architect in my area? Why do I need an
Architect? How to be clear about your space needs. Why time must be managed properly.
Experience 24 years involvement in the practice of Architecture, including some teaching experience. Most of my work has been within the employment of various firms, but I have also done some small-scale projects on my own.
Particular interests include Environmental Design, "Green" Design, and Appropriate Technologies. LEED (TM) Accredited Professional.
I have some specific experience with Historic Preservation, Medical Facilities, Commercial Interiors, and Public School projects.
Education: Bachelor of Environmental Design Degree (Architecture), 1978, Miami University in Ohio. I am registered to practice professionally in the states of Massachusetts and Maine.
Question I live in a 2 bedroom home built in 1930. We need to add a bedroom or two and renovate the kitchen, however we don't know if adding the bedrooms will be feasible since we can only build up rather than in the back or side. How can we find out if what we need is possible given historic neighborhood codes and the house without investing $20,000 in architectual designs? I know we can build up but it may not be worth the money if we can't get enough space. Should we hire a draftsman first then an architect? Could we use a draftsman to see if it is possible before investing in an architect? I hate to have drawings done, find out it will cost twice our budget and not be able to do any of it. Thank you for your advice.
Jenna
Answer Hi Jenna:
It is possible to get the answers you seek without spending a lot of money. But, you will need to spend SOME money, and you will need to invest your own time and effort. Remember, generally you get what you pay for; if you hire someone with lesser education and experience at a lower rate, you might not get the same benefit of wisdom and experience as if you hire a seasoned professional architect.
Here is what I would do if I were in your shoes: First, gather all the regulatory info you can regarding your historic district, and read it carefully. Seek out public officials and do your best to get an 'official' written ruling on what you can, or can not, do. This may take a lot of letter writing and asking questions about the language in the regulations. Then, I would hire a carpenter to open up a small area of the supporting walls, to get a view of what is inside. Then I would hire a structural engineer for a couple hours to come out and evaluate the structure and write you a letter saying if the existing framing is capable of carrying a second floor, or not. Then, depending on where all this information leads, I would hire a professional architect. Having done a lot of the research yourself, your architect's fees should be lower than otherwise.
Good luck! I hope this helps.
Paul B.
