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 can you please give me an idea of what an architect's design fee will run?
also, i'm building on atlantic oceanfront and wish to know the best type of
windows to put in - clad vs wood and any other recommendations you can
make. thank you. pam
Answer 6/22/07 Hi Again Pam:
Thanks for the nice feedback. It's appreciated. I just noticed that it looks like you might have a follow-up question or two. Please email me directly: here are the clues: use my last name, then @ then draws . com
- Paul
Hi Pam:
This sounds like a great adventure.
Generally, a good 'rule of thumb' for design fees for a custom residence, is about 12% of the cost of construction(excluding land costs). Thus, if the cost to build your home is going to be $400,000; then you should add on about $48,000.00 for design fees. If you select a 'boutique' architect, you can expect to pay more. If you select a builder, and arrange for the builder to provide the design services, you might be able to pay a bit less. (This is possible because the builder has relationships with professional designers and engineers, and uses the power of 'future work' to leverage some reductions on fees; plus the designer is insulated a bit from re-dos caused by mind-changing.)
Windows: It really depends on the aesthetic which appeals to you, plus your tolerance for maintenance. If you like wood, you can use a good quality window fabricated from a durable wood species, and expect to get long service with some expected maintenance. If you prefer no maintenance, you might want to go with an aluminum clad wood window with a kynar-type finish, or perhaps one of the newer generation fiberglass windows. Or even a full commercial-grade aluminum or steel window, again with a durable paint finish. Be sure to select a window with either true brass (not fake brass), or 100% stainless steel operating mechanism. The salt air will attack other metals.
Good luck! I hope the project goes well for you.
- PB
