Frequently Asked Questions
An architect has a license granted by the state. To earn the license the architect must have 8 years of experience and education and pass an examination.
Architects may design buildings and sites of any size or type. A non-licensed person may only design wood frame houses.
Most architects charge between $150 and $250 per hour.
Often between 10 to 20% of the cost of construction, that is, the amount paid to the General Contractor.
Architects involved in health care usually take additional classes to bring them up to speed.
Eight years of college and experience. The most common degree is a 5 year "Bachelor of Architecture" although many satisfy the State licensing education requirement with a Masters Degree.
Most people don't have the specialized skills to design buildings and create the documents needed (drawings, specifications, and calculations).
Not normally.
Usually hourly.
Those with the most experience, as well as of course creativity. There are a lot of things to learn and wisdom only comes with time and hard work.
Absolutely
Yes
Designing buildings and sites.
Responsibility for all aspects of the design.
Look at their website first, then interview with them.
Not necessarily. Your architect can create documents that allow any amount of interaction you desire.
Yes. We like to meet our clients on the site where the building is to be built so they can meet us and we can understand the project. Then we can give an educated written proposal.
The architect utilizes a number of associates to complete the work. These days everything is digital of course. We use extremely sophisticated 3-D software, unusual for most architectural studios.
Less than to not hire one.
