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 We could not find a builder who builds the exact house we want. We selected a builder who had the right floorplan and are going to use the front elevation and roofline from another builders house. The selected builder says it will be simple to have the plans drawn. My question is, won't the new design have to be engineer approved at a significant cost to us? The builder is saying the plans will cost $2500 to be drawn.
Answer Hi Gary:
If the plan is not changing too much, if only the elevation is changing; then the structural changes to the house may not be too significant. If the builder says it can be done for $2500; it seems like about the right amount of money; were you expecting that you would have to pay more than $2500? I would not question it, if I were you; just be sure the final plans do have either a professional engineer's stamp, or a professional architect's stamp. They should have the stamp with an original signature.
Good luck,
PB
