“Architect: a person who plans, designs, and oversees the construction of buildings. To practice architecture means to provide services in connection with the design of buildings and the space within the site surrounding the buildings that have human occupancy or use as their principal purpose. (…)

 

In the architectural profession, technical and environmental knowledge, design, and construction management, require an understanding of business as well as design. (…)

Throughout the project (planning to occupancy), the architect coordinates a design team. “

                                                                                                                                                          [source: Wikipedia]

 

Why when you have issues with your car, you take it to the garage? Why when you need financial advice, you look for an expert? Why when ….?

 

I believe that everyone has his/her trade!

 

What I mean with this is that, sure, we can all try to solve problems and investigate solutions, and it’s even possible that we find our way out, in one way or another. The problem is different: how long would that take? How much energy? And moreover, will you be sure of the quality of the result and that it complies with all the legal obligations?

Personally, I have no clue about car engines. Sure, I could have a go, study books, watch YouTube videos and ask around. After months, if not longer, I might find myself having the engine working again … possibly, not knowing why, and having spent more than a proper repair would have costed. However, would I feel comfortable driving it? Would it be safe?

 

Talking about a building, the matter is similar.

For every building type there are the personal requirements, but also the legal ones in the form of norms that are in place to protect our safety and our well-being, and spatial requirements to make a place useful. All this without taking in consideration the actual design, aspects, and personal needs.

Moreover, there’s the necessity to communicate and coordinate with a multidisciplinary team made of engineers, specialists, contractors, local authorities … all talking in their specific “idiom” and each with their own priorities, most likely different from those of everyone else.

 

Bottom line, the combination of experience, technical knowledge, and management is “key” to guarantee a smooth process and a successful result, meaning, in the respect of the time, the budget, and the norms, as well as your personal needs.

This is what an architect does: behind the stereotyped image of the “funky” person focused on aesthetics, there is a multidisciplinary professional with technical and management experience (of course, there are also “funky architects'” who confuse the profession of architect with that of artist, usually with mixed results...)

 

Asking for help from an architect can be beneficial for several reasons:

 

1. Expertise and Knowledge: Architects have extensive training and education in the field of architecture. They possess specialized knowledge about design principles, building codes, materials, and construction techniques. When you need guidance or advice related to architectural projects, an architect can provide you with invaluable insights and expertise.

 

2. Design and Planning: Architects are skilled in translating your ideas and requirements into practical designs. They can help you visualize your project, create detailed plans, and consider factors such as functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. Whether you are renovating a space or starting a new construction project, an architect can assist you in creating a well-designed and efficient solution.

 

3. Building Codes and Regulations: Architects are familiar with local building codes, regulations, and zoning laws. They can navigate through the complex legal requirements and ensure that your project complies with the necessary standards. By involving an architect early in the process, you can avoid potential legal issues or delays in obtaining permits.

 

4. Project Management: Architects can also play a crucial role in project management. They can help you develop a realistic timeline, coordinate with contractors and suppliers, and oversee the construction process to ensure that it aligns with the design intent. Architects can act as your advocate, making sure that your vision is realized and that the project runs smoothly.

 

5. Cost Optimization: While hiring an architect involves an additional expense, their expertise helps you optimize the project's cost in the long run. Architects can provide cost-effective design solutions, recommend sustainable materials and construction methods, and help you make informed decisions that balance your budget and goals.

Also, the final result will reflect the added expertise in the form of a higher quality, and thus a more valuable outcome.

 

So, what does working with an architect means? It means to be able to trust someone to act on your behalf and who uses his/her know-how to make your project a reality.

 

However, you might wonder: “Why should I pay someone when I can do it myself?

First, I suggest asking yourself if you are sure that you can/are allowed to do it yourself. I’m not judging your abilities but, depending on the scale of the project, you might need anyway a professional on board to approve and sign your project.

Then what it is often not considered is that the time that needs to be invested in the process is highly underestimates, because it is “a lot”, no matter the scale of the project.

Most likely, you will need to either give up your free time, or take time off from work, or both.

Lastly, the necessary time for you to prepare for the task, to follow the project and wrap it up will be “N” times longer than for a professional, who is trained for that, who knows how to be efficient, and who does it every day.

 

 

Ultimately, reaching out to an architect can provide you with professional guidance, creative ideas, and technical expertise to bring your architectural projects to fruition.

And, although it is surely of high satisfaction being able to say, “I did it myself”, I would suggest to properly evaluate all pros and cons and decide where you want to invest your time, energy, and money, before even starting the process.

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