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 purchased a cabin in Arkansas to retire. It is livable as is, but I am a Yankee and must have a garage, and a cabin must have a fireplace, in other words, I fell in love with it because it was "Perfect" for me, now all I can think about is how many ways I want to change it. As I am a nurse who is retiring, I do not have a lot of money, but I want to keep the integrity of the cabin, but make it bigger. How much would an architect charge to come up with exciting plans for the additions. I have drawn some different floor plans I have in mind, but I am not the least bit creative, to make it all look natural. Where would I find such a person in Arkansas? Do School of Architecture Professors ever take on "class projects"?
Answer Hi Alecs:
An east-coater going to the Arkansas woods - how cool is that?!? I grew up in Missouri; now am in Boston. So I relate...
Before I answer your question, I'm going to give you a reading assignment. If you have not already done so, you MUST read "Flat Rock Journal", by Ken Carey. If you google his last name, it will come up as the first hit. It is out of print (I think) but still easily available on amazon, or of course at your library. GO no Further, without reading this book!!
OK, on to the answer: there are lots of creative ways to get design help. Yes, students are a good idea. Young architects starting practice are another idea. And, you can find 'building designers' on Craig's List. Last resort, you could ask me. (can't make promises; pretty busy; but this sounds like fun if you can wait). (also, I'm not registered in Arkansas)
Start by contacting your local building official, and asking if they will need stamped plans. Then, it's just a matter of lots of hard work to find the right Architect or designer. For a registered Architect, rates will vary from $60 per hour on up. A few hours should be enough for a preliminary floor plan sketch or two; but stampable construction drawings take a lot more effort - but you might not need them, depending on what you want to do and what the local official says.
Don't try to cut any corners and avoid permits, etc., It's best to play by the rules.
Good luck; sounds like fun.
Cheers,
PB
